Redditor’s comeback story goes viral as 25-year-old overcomes college failures and health struggles to land ₹21 LPA job

A Reddit user’s post has gone viral after recounting how he overcame academic setbacks, serious health issues, and professional disappointments to secure a ₹21 lakh-per-annum job by the age of 25.

In a post titled “My story: From a pure failure in college to here at 25”, the user detailed years of struggle before finally finding stability and success.

Early Academic Struggles

The user described himself as introverted and academically average after school, despite scoring 92% in Class 10. His performance declined in higher secondary education, where he scored 72% in Class 12 in 2019.


He also fared poorly in competitive exams, securing a JEE Main rank of around 6 lakh. Following this, he enrolled in a BSc Mathematics programme at what he described as a low-quality college — and failed all subjects in his first semester.

Failures, Covid and Mental Health Challenges

His difficulties continued during the Covid-19 period. He faced repeated failures in university exams. After multiple attempts, he finally cleared his degree only in 2024, passing on his last possible chance.

Health Issues and Personal Loss

Alongside academic stress, his physical health deteriorated. He revealed that he was diagnosed with hydronephrosis and chronic kidney disease, had low vitamin D levels, and a BMI of 19.

During this period, he also ended a relationship, explaining the emotional toll in his own words:
“Left my girlfriend being the villain(never cheated on her/hurt her) coz of all the things was going through in life and didn't wanna suffer her for this and also lost feeling of love as well from inside.

All together this was my situation in 2022-23. Extremely poor, complete hopeless.”

Turning to Coding and Early Work

Despite knowing that a lack of a strong degree could be a hurdle, he began learning coding after college. His first breakthrough came in August 2023, when he secured a part-time job paying ₹7,000 per month.

Then he secured a ₹6 LPA job, but was laid off after five months in 2024.

Degree Completion and Career Growth

In 2024, he finally cleared his university exams, completing his degree. Shortly after, he secured a new job with a ₹7.5 LPA package in October 2024 and joined the company.

A year later, in October 2025, his career took a major leap. He received two offers from mid-level startups and accepted one offering a ₹21 LPA base salary along with ESOPs.

Life at 25: Health, Stability and Hope

Now 25, the Redditor says his health has improved significantly. He has started going to the gym, feels more stable, and describes his life as far more fulfilling than before.

In a postscript, he mentioned that he is currently not seeing any tax deducted at source through Razorpay Payroll, as his income for the financial year remains below the taxable threshold.

Looking Ahead

While acknowledging that his journey is still ongoing, he said he feels happier and more optimistic about the future. He concluded his post on a personal note, writing: “Just one regret now, haven't found the love of my life yet. Trying to complete that goal now.”

Disclaimer: This article is based on a user-generated post on Reddit. ET.com has not independently verified the claims made in the post and does not vouch for their accuracy. The views expressed are those of the individual and do not necessarily reflect the views of ET.com. Reader discretion is advised.