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How a 21-year-old landed an OpenAI internship
#144142 · 26.07.2026
Work Life

How a 21-year-old landed an OpenAI internship

Hamza Mostafa, a 21-year-old computer science student based in San Francisco, secured a three-month internship at OpenAI for 2025 by shifting his focus from general software engineering to specialized artificial intelligence. He now advocates for a disciplined, project-based approach to navigating the competitive tech landscape.

Mostafa recommends a three-step framework for those aiming to enter the field: develop a broad foundational understanding, select a specific niche, and prioritize hands-on construction. For him, that niche became AI agents. He argues that building personal projects is the most effective way to identify technical gaps and create tangible evidence of expertise for potential employers. When stuck, he uses tools like ChatGPT or Claude to break down complex concepts until they are simple enough to explain to a layperson.

Beyond technical skill, Mostafa emphasizes psychological resilience. He warns that the tech industry's public discourse on LinkedIn can be demotivating, particularly regarding the volatile job market. Instead of obsessing over industry trends or hiring reports, he suggests focusing exclusively on controllable variables: refining one’s resume, expanding professional networks, and maintaining a consistent learning pace. By treating AI tools as tutors and projects as proof of competence, he believes candidates can significantly improve their employability.

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