I landed a job at an AI startup right out of college. Here's what you should do if you want to work in AI.

For many computer science graduates, securing a position at a major tech company seems like the obvious choice. Names like Google, Meta, and Amazon draw students in with promises of prestige and stable career paths. However, some graduates are opting for the dynamic environment of startups, where they can experience rapid learning and potential financial rewards if the company succeeds. Lambert Liu, a software engineer, shares insights from his journey, which included internships at both major tech firms and startups. Initially, his experience at Google was positive, but after a second internship, he felt his growth had stagnated. This realization prompted him to seek opportunities at startups, culminating in a role at Graphite, an AI code review platform. Liu offers valuable advice for aspiring candidates looking to enter the startup world. He stresses that prior internship experience at a startup is not a strict requirement; rather, having a background in a major tech company can signal a solid technical foundation to potential employers. Such experience often indicates that candidates are skilled in technical design and testing, capable of producing clean, reliable code. While having startup experience can help in adapting to the fast-paced and ambiguous nature of these environments, aspiring engineers can also hone their skills through personal projects. Liu emphasizes that these projects need not be AI-focused. In fact, leveraging AI tools can enhance productivity across various domains, and showcasing a diverse range of skills is often more beneficial. Preparing for technical interviews at startups still involves traditional methods like solving algorithmic problems on platforms like LeetCode. However, there’s an increasing emphasis on navigating ambiguity and understanding product development. This shift is crucial, given that many engineers now use AI to assist in coding tasks. For Liu, his interview at Graphite marked his first encounter with system design questions, an area not commonly explored for entry-level positions. He credits his knowledge of system design to a college course on human-computer interaction, which equipped him with the skills to identify and solve complex problems effectively. To thrive in a startup setting, Liu advocates for becoming a holistic engineer who can work efficiently while prioritizing user needs. He encourages students to demonstrate passion and ownership in their work, as startups like Graphite seek individuals who can keep pace with a fast-moving culture and produce high-quality outcomes. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, those looking to embark on a career in AI startups should take note of these strategies to enhance their chances of success.