Hi everyone,

I'm entering my final year (B.Tech Computer Engineering, Class of 2027) and would really appreciate some guidance from people who've recently cracked good off-campus offers.

A little about my profile

• CGPA: 9.7+
• Interested in both Software Development and AI/ML
• Comfortable with Python, SQL, FastAPI/Flask, TensorFlow/Keras and backend development
• Built multiple end-to-end AI projects including:
  • LangSQL (Natural Language → SQL system)
  • AI Resume Analyzer
  • Other ML/hackathon projects with complete pipelines
• Recently secured a Software Engineering internship at a small-to-mid-sized product-based company, where I'm getting hands-on experience with real-world product development.
• Participated in multiple hackathons and technical communities
• Currently grinding DSA and improving my problem-solving on LeetCode

My Goal

I'm aiming for 10–15+ LPA off-campus, preferably in AI/ML, but I'm equally happy with a strong SDE role if that's the more practical path.

What I'm confused about

1. Resume Positioning

Should I create:

• one resume focused entirely on SDE,
• one focused on AI/ML,
• or keep a hybrid resume showcasing both?

People often say recruiters spend only a few seconds on a resume, so I'm unsure whether being "good at both" actually hurts.

2. Where should I invest the next 3–4 months?

If you had my profile today, would you prioritize:

• DSA (LeetCode)
• Backend/System Design
• Open Source
• Something else entirely?

I'm trying to maximize ROI rather than learning everything.

3. How difficult is the off-campus market right now?

Most online discussions make it seem extremely competitive.

For someone targeting 10–15+ LPA:

• Is my current internship likely to make a meaningful difference during resume shortlisting, or is it still largely dependent on DSA and projects?
• Is it realistic without a referral?
• Roughly how many applications should I expect to send?
• What usually becomes the biggest bottleneck?

4. AI/ML vs SDE

I genuinely enjoy AI/ML, but I also don't want to limit my opportunities.

Would you recommend:

• focusing entirely on SDE first,
• applying to both simultaneously,
• or specializing in AI/ML from the start?

I'd love to hear from people who have actually gone through this decision.

5. Biggest mistakes

If you could go back to the beginning of your final year, what is one thing you would do differently?

I'd really appreciate honest advice—especially from people who secured 10+ LPA off-campus offers, mentor candidates, or regularly conduct technical interviews.

Thanks in advance!