How NEET failure led to Rolls-Royce and Rs 73 LPA for this 20-year-old. Who is Rithuparna KS? Check her educational qualifications

When Rithuparna KS missed out on a government medical seat after her NEET results, it felt like the end of a dream. What she didn’t know then was that the rejection would reroute her towards something bigger — a job with Rolls-Royce’s Jet Engine Manufacturing Division, a jaw-dropping Rs 72.3 lakh package, and a future in aerospace innovation. All by the age of 20.

Her educational qualifications

Hailing from Koduru in Thirthahalli taluk, Karnataka, Rithuparna initially aspired to become a doctor. But when her NEET scores didn’t fetch her a government seat, she turned to engineering — not by choice, but necessity. She secured admission to Sahyadri College of Engineering through CET in 2022 and enrolled in the BE course in robotics and automation. Though disappointed at first, she quickly shifted gears, determined to make the most of her unexpected path.

From the first day of college, Rithuparna threw herself into learning, building, and innovating. Her first project — a robotics-based arecanut harvester and sprayer — won gold and silver medals at the Goa INEX competition. She collaborated with doctors to study robotic surgery, contributed to solid waste management tech with local officials, and even worked with a research team at NITK Surathkal.

The Rolls-Royce chapter

Driven by a burning desire to intern with a global firm, Rithuparna reached out to Rolls-Royce. The response was brutally honest. They questioned her qualifications and said she likely couldn’t complete even one of their assigned tasks in a month. Instead of stepping back, Rithuparna asked for a chance — one task. She received a challenge with a one-month deadline. She finished it in a week.

Impressed, Rolls-Royce sent her more assignments. Over the next eight months, she faced relentless challenges and tough interviews. Just when the dream seemed distant, she got her break: a pre-placement offer in December 2024.

Midnight shifts, soaring rewards

Since January 2025, she’s been working from home — logging in from midnight to 6 am — while simultaneously managing her college coursework. Once she completes her seventh semester, she will relocate to Texas, USA, to join Rolls-Royce full-time. In April, her annual package was revised from Rs 39.6 lakh to a stunning Rs 72.3 lakh.