I'm currently a 3rd-year Mechanical Engineering student in a Tier-2 college in India, and honestly, I have no interest in mechanical engineering. My real passion lies in IT, specifically in AI and ML, as well as some web and app development. Initially, I aimed for a Computer Science degree but didn't get the rank. I was hoping for a branch upgrade, but my CGPA wasn't sufficient. Now, I'm feeling utterly drained due to a tough attendance policy, a packed schedule, and strict grading. My CGPA has taken a hit, and I find myself without any relevant skills, even in mechanical. I'm feeling quite underconfident. My main goal right now is to graduate, but I urgently need to develop skills that will help me secure an AI/ML job by the time I finish my degree in 2027. What should I focus on with my limited free time, and what essential skills do I need to be employable in this field? Also, are there any recommended courses or resources that can accelerate my learning?
3 Answers
First off, just finish your degree. In the end, no one really focuses on what your branch was; it's your skills that matter. Start with Python, then learn some basic data structures and algorithms, followed by the fundamentals of machine learning. Work on 2 or 3 solid projects and push them to GitHub. Also, take your time with LeetCode to enhance your problem-solving skills. Just a heads up, job opportunities may be tough right now, especially in India for these roles, so be prepared for the competition.
I wish I could be more optimistic, but pivoting to AI/ML with a low CGPA and just a year left to graduate is going to be tough—especially in such a competitive field. You might need to adjust your expectations a bit. Focus on developing your skills in Python and ML fundamentals. It's crucial to build real projects to showcase your abilities, as that’s what employers are looking for. If you can manage this during your final year, you'd be in a better position for job applications.
You've got plenty of time since you're graduating in 2027, so there's no need to stress about mastering everything at once. Instead of overwhelming yourself with a long list of skills, start by focusing on Python. Get comfortable with it, then move on to libraries like NumPy and pandas. After that, try building some small projects to apply what you've learned. Your main hurdle isn't your CGPA or your branch; it's the pressure to tackle everything all at once, which can halt your progress. Remember, many companies value skills over your degree name anyway.
What would you recommend as a good entry-level project in ML?