Seeking advice/referral to break into AI/ML as a fresher — would really appreciate any guidance
Hello everyone,
I’m a recent 2026 graduate from a Tier-3 college, and getting good placement opportunities has been really difficult. Because of that, I decided to pursue the online \*\*BS in Data Science and Applications from IIT Madras\*\* alongside my career journey, mainly because I wanted to learn from strong professors and also explore better opportunities through the program.
Over the past year, I’ve spent most of my time seriously learning and building my skills. I’ve worked through the fundamentals of \*\*Machine Learning, mathematics, statistics, Python, and data science\*\*, and then moved into \*\*Deep Learning with PyTorch\*\*. More recently, I’ve been learning \*\*Generative AI, Transformers, RAG, LangChain, and related LLM technologies\*\*.
I genuinely enjoy AI/ML and have been trying to build my career in this field.
However, because of my family situation, pursuing a full-time Master’s degree isn’t financially practical for me right now. I need to start earning and support my family.
Recently, I received an opportunity as a \*\*Software QA/Automation Engineer\*\*. The role comes with around 6 months of training/internship followed by FTE, but there is also a \*\*2.6-year bond\*\*. I accepted the offer because, at that point, I didn’t really have another option and I needed a job.
But after joining, I’ve started questioning whether I’m moving in the right direction. My long-term goal is AI/ML, and I’m worried that spending the next few years in a testing/automation role will make it even harder for me to transition into AI/ML later.
I’ve reached out to many people on LinkedIn asking for advice, guidance, or opportunities, but unfortunately I haven’t been able to find much help so far.
I’m seriously looking for a way to transition into \*\*AI/ML/Data Science/GenAI roles\*\*, even if it means starting from an entry-level position and proving myself through my work.
If anyone here is:
Hiring freshers for AI/ML, Data Science, or GenAI roles
Willing to provide a referral
Has successfully transitioned from QA/automation/software roles into AI/ML
Can guide me on what skills or technologies I should focus on
Can suggest good projects, open-source contributions, internships, or platforms where I can gain real-world experience
…I would genuinely appreciate your advice.
I’m not looking for shortcuts. I’m willing to put in the work and learn whatever is required. I just need some direction and hopefully an opportunity to prove myself.
If you’ve read this far, \*\*thank you sincerely\*\*. Even a small piece of advice, a referral, or pointing me in the right direction could make a huge difference for me right now. 🥹
Thank you everyone.