Rejected by IIT and Microsoft, Hired by Meta: Engineer’s Journey Redefines Success
Rejected by IIT and Microsoft, Hired by Meta: Engineer’s Journey Redefines Success
Dreams don’t always follow a straight path, and one Indian software engineer’s story is proving exactly that. Now based in London, Amit Dutta has captured widespread attention online after sharing how early setbacks eventually led him to a high-paying role at Meta, reportedly earning around ₹1.7 crore annually.
Back in 2018, Dutta faced what many students consider a major disappointment—he didn’t secure admission into the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). While many around him celebrated their success, he chose a different route by enrolling in a lesser-known college. Instead of dwelling on what didn’t work out, he shifted his mindset entirely. In his own words, he decided to focus on becoming the kind of engineer no institution could define.
Challenges didn’t stop there. In 2021, after dedicating weeks to preparation, he was rejected for an internship at Microsoft. Rather than letting the rejection discourage him, he used it as motivation to improve further and stay committed to his goals.
Persistence paid off the following year when he secured a full-time opportunity at Google. During his time there, he spent two years strengthening his technical expertise while also gaining international exposure, including a work trip to Singapore.
His career took another significant turn when Meta reached out with an opportunity to join its London office. The hiring process was intense, involving six demanding interview rounds. After successfully clearing them, he accepted the offer and moved to the UK—something he once thought was beyond reach.
Dutta shared his journey through a video on Instagram, where it quickly resonated with viewers. Thousands engaged with his story, many drawing inspiration from how he navigated setbacks and continued to move forward.
His experience has sparked conversations about conventional definitions of success, especially the belief that admission into elite institutions is the only path to a successful career. By carving his own way, Dutta’s story highlights how determination, adaptability, and consistent effort can open doors that once seemed firmly shut.
