I studied English literature and landed a job in AI out of college. Here's why I don't regret my major.

Tue, 08/20/2024 - 11:23

Ramani Akkati standing in courtyard with pool and rows of trees behind her — Ramani Akkati studied English literature in college because she felt she could get good grades and liked to analyze different texts.
Ramani Akkati

Ramani Akkati transitioned from studying English literature to working in AI and data science.
She self-studied coding and AI through online courses and resources like MIT OpenCourseWare.
Akkati secured jobs in part by directly reaching out to startup CEOs and explaining how she could use her skillset.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Ramani Akkati, a 22-year-old tech employee. This essay has been edited for length and clarity. Business Insider verified her identity, transcript, and employment.

I planned to go to med school when I first started college, but I chose to study English literature because I enjoyed it and knew I could get a good GPA.