IITian feels jaded at 'bare minimum culture' at MNC: 'My expectations were brutally....'

A fresh graduate from a premier Indian Institute of Technology in 2025 has voiced disappointment over his position as a software development engineer at a major global corporation, explaining that while the designation appears attractive, the actual responsibilities lack substance and growth.

He shared his experience on the online community Developers India subreddit, revealing that he had joined with enthusiasm, hoping to immerse himself in challenging technical work. However, that excitement faded quickly as his expectations were met with an underwhelming reality.

According to his account, he was initially assigned to a generative AI initiative, which was later abandoned. Following a discussion with his reporting manager, he was transferred to a team focused largely on maintenance tasks. There, he discovered that genuine development work was almost nonexistent, leaving little room to learn or innovate.


He also described the workplace atmosphere as exhausting and uninspiring. Most of his colleagues are highly experienced professionals who prefer to remain within their own comfort zones, showing little interest in collaboration or growth. This environment, he admitted, has started to influence his own work ethic in a way he finds concerning.

Detailing his daily routine, he explained that his workday involves arriving at the office, checking communication channels, and then passing time with social media or online videos until it is time to leave. The monotony has left him feeling deeply disengaged.

While he has considered improving his skills and transitioning to a startup environment, he expressed concern about the current job market. With many seasoned professionals entering the talent pool after layoffs, competition for roles has intensified significantly.

He also reflected on how artificial intelligence is reshaping entry-level roles in software development. Tasks that once served as stepping stones for beginners are now being completed rapidly by AI tools, raising doubts about how newcomers can build foundational skills in this evolving landscape.

Responses from fellow users ranged from understanding to pragmatic. Some pointed out that securing such a role is fortunate given the challenging hiring climate, while others acknowledged that similar situations are common in large multinational firms. A few experienced professionals even remarked that such a low-pressure job could be considered ideal, whereas others warned that staying too long in such roles might hinder long-term career growth due to limited skill development.