OpenAI's Janvi Kalra Drops Career Wisdom: Intern at Both Big Tech and Startups

Janvi Kalra, renowned for her engineering role at OpenAI, shares valuable insights for students aspiring to excel in the tech industry. She emphasizes that the pursuit of diverse experiences through internships at both Big Tech companies and startups can significantly impact one's career trajectory. In a detailed discussion, she points out the unique lessons and opportunities each environment offers, aiding students in making informed choices about their future careers. At the core of her recommendation is the belief that exposure to different organizational cultures and operational scales can cultivate a versatile and highly skilled workforce, ready to tackle various challenges in the fast‑evolving tech landscape. Kalra's guidance underlines the importance of understanding both the broad, stable environments of Big Tech and the dynamic, high‑stakes atmosphere of startups. This dual‑experience approach aims to equip students with a well‑rounded skillset, enabling them to adapt and thrive in diverse settings.

Internships, as Kalra suggests, serve as a crucial platform where theoretical knowledge meets real‑world application. Working in Big Tech companies often allows interns to engage with cutting‑edge projects, exploring innovations that shape the future of technology. The experience is marked by the opportunity to collaborate on large‑scale software solutions, benefiting from the extensive resources and structures inherent in such organizations. Conversely, startup internships can immerse students in fast‑paced environments where every line of code matters. Here, interns often take on multiple roles, gaining hands‑on experience in software development, business strategies, and even client interactions. Kalra's insights reflect a holistic approach to career development, advocating for experiences that build resilience and adaptability, qualities essential for success in any tech role.

Big Tech internships provide numerous advantages to aspiring technologists, particularly in their ability to offer a window into the world of large‑scale software development. Interns at these companies are often involved in designing systems that need to handle millions of user requests without faltering, thereby honing their skills in creating and maintaining robust, scalable applications. This experience is invaluable as it teaches the importance of reliability and efficiency in software architecture—a crucial aspect of technology that continues to be in high demand [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

Additionally, Big Tech internships tend to offer higher compensation packages compared to those in startups. This not only provides financial benefits but also serves as an attractive incentive for many students and graduates who must weigh their career opportunities against the immediate economic return. Furthermore, the association with recognized tech giants like Google or Microsoft can significantly enhance a resume, often making candidates more appealing to future employers seeking proven talent [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

Working in Big Tech also immerses interns in environments that are rich with innovation and groundbreaking projects. These companies often have the resources to invest in 'moonshot' initiatives—ambitious projects that push the boundaries of current technology without the immediate pressure of profitability. This fosters an exciting work atmosphere where creativity and risk‑taking are encouraged, providing a unique professional development opportunity [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5). Moreover, the international nature and scale of Big Tech companies can facilitate advantageous visa and residency processes, which is a significant benefit for international students looking to establish their careers abroad [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

Working at big tech companies is often associated with attractive salaries, significant resources, and prestige. However, it's essential to understand the potential drawbacks deeply rooted within this industry. One considerable disadvantage is the scale and rigidity of processes that can stifle innovation. In such vast organizations, the bureaucratic procedures can often lead to slower decision‑making and can hinder creativity, which can be frustrating for employees who thrive in dynamic environments. Additionally, the highly competitive environment and performance‑driven culture might cultivate stress and burnout among employees, as they continuously strive to meet high expectations and targets.

Another significant drawback of working at big tech companies is the lack of individual impact. Employees might feel like a small part of a massive machine, making it challenging to see the direct effects of their work. This can be demotivating, particularly for those who seek tangible accomplishments and personal contributions to projects. Furthermore, these companies often operate at such a large scale that individual roles can become extremely specialized, potentially leading to a narrow skill set that may not translate easily to other organizations or industries.

Work‑life balance is another frequently mentioned concern among employees at big tech firms. Despite the allure of high salaries and perks, many employees report long working hours and an expectation of around‑the‑clock availability. The blending of personal and professional time can erode boundaries, affecting personal well‑being and leading to burnout over time. Moreover, despite the outwardly progressive and inclusive cultures that these corporations often advertise, the internal reality can sometimes fall short, with issues like workplace diversity and inclusion not uniformly enforced across all departments.

Additionally, while big tech companies are known for their innovative projects, employees at lower levels may not get the opportunity to work on such cutting‑edge technologies. Often, these exciting projects are reserved for more senior teams, while junior employees might find themselves working on maintenance tasks or projects with less visibility. This can result in limited growth opportunities and the potential for stagnation within their career development. It is crucial for prospective employees to weigh these factors against the benefits when considering a career with a big tech company, ensuring that their work aligns with their personal and professional goals.

Startup internships offer a unique opportunity to delve deeply into the tech ecosystem, providing a hands‑on learning experience that is often more immersive compared to internships at larger companies. One of the primary benefits of startups is the ability to engage directly in multiple facets of the business, which can lead to the development of a diverse skill set. Interns at startups frequently find themselves taking on tasks that range from software development to marketing, providing a comprehensive view of how a business operates. This multidimensional exposure is invaluable for those looking to understand the ins and outs of the tech industry.

Another significant advantage of startup internships is the level of responsibility and impact an intern can have. Startup environments often encourage creativity and innovation from all team members, including interns. This means that interns are typically not just observing but are actively participating in and even leading projects. The ability to propose and implement changes can significantly enhance an intern's confidence and professional growth. Additionally, because startups are generally newer and less structured, they offer a fertile ground for interns to experiment and learn from failures in a supportive environment.

Interning at a startup can also be a formative experience in terms of problem‑solving and adaptability. Startups are known for their dynamic nature, often requiring employees to pivot quickly and efficiently in response to market demands. This flexibility cultivates a mindset geared towards finding rapid solutions to challenges, a trait highly valued in today's fast‑paced tech landscape. Moreover, successfully navigating such an environment can be rewarding, as interns witness first‑hand the direct impact of their contributions on the company's success.

Despite the exhilarating pace and learning potential of startup internships, they also come with their set of challenges. Unlike Big Tech companies, which may offer more generous stipends and structured programs, startup internships might involve limited compensation and resources. This can sometimes mean longer hours and a more intense workload, which might not be feasible for everyone. However, for many, the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation and make a tangible impact on a growing venture can outweigh these challenges.

Janvi Kalra, an AI engineer at OpenAI, highlights that the lessons learned during a startup internship are invaluable for anyone considering a career in the tech sector. She notes that while Big Tech internships provide exposure to scale and systematic processes, startup internships foster a "jack‑of‑all‑trades" skill set. This duality is crucial, as it not only prepares students for the diverse challenges they will face in their careers but also helps them discover where their true passions lie. For students aspiring to make informed decisions about their career paths, Kalra's advice is to embrace both experiences as part of a holistic education.

Startup internships often present budding professionals with a rich but challenging landscape distinct from that found in more established companies. One primary challenge lies in the overwhelming workload, which can be a double‑edged sword for interns. While they are given the opportunity to immerse themselves in multiple areas of the business, from coding to infrastructure and even marketing, the sheer volume of work can be daunting. This high‑pressure environment requires interns to rapidly adapt and learn, pushing them to develop multifaceted skills. Such expectations can be stressful without the structured support systems typically found in larger institutions, potentially leading to burnout if not managed properly.

Another significant challenge encountered in startup internships is the lack of formal training programs or mentorship structures. Many startups operate with limited resources, and as a result, interns might find themselves with less guidance and fewer training opportunities compared to their counterparts in Big Tech. This can necessitate a self‑directed approach to learning, where initiative is key to success. However, this also means that interns must be proactive in seeking feedback and learning opportunities to ensure they make the most of their internship experience.

Financial instability is another concern for startup interns. Startups are known for their fast‑paced and often unpredictable environments, where financial security is not guaranteed. Interns might face the reality of lower stipends or even unpaid work, depending on the company’s financial health. This can deter students from less privileged backgrounds from pursuing such positions, fearing the potential financial strain. Consequently, the financial limitations can significantly impact the diversity and inclusivity of internship programs within startups.

Additionally, the entrepreneurial environment that characterizes startups can be both an opportunity and a challenge. Interns are often given significant responsibilities and a degree of autonomy that can be exhilarating but also overwhelming. Making impactful decisions and bearing responsibility for their outcomes can be daunting for those with little prior experience. The risk of failure is inherently higher, requiring a mindset that embraces risk‑taking and learning from mistakes. This dynamic environment can be a breeding ground for innovation and personal growth, albeit with the potential for stressful situations.

Finally, the limited scope for networking within startups may pose a challenge for those looking to build extensive professional connections. With a smaller team, the opportunities to meet a diverse range of industry professionals can be restricted. This lack of broader networking can make it more challenging for interns to learn about other areas of interest or different industry practices. However, startups often foster close‑knit communities where meaningful connections with mentors and peers can still be developed, albeit on a more intimate scale.

Internships serve as a crucial stepping stone for students aspiring to enter the tech industry. Gaining firsthand experience in varied work environments is essential, as it aids in personal and professional growth. According to Janvi Kalra, an AI engineer at OpenAI, internships at both Big Tech and startup companies provide unique platforms for development. In her view, these experiences can help students delineate their career preferences and make well‑informed decisions by understanding the distinct work cultures at each.

Big Tech internships come with their set of advantages, primarily constituting the experience of handling projects of massive scale. These companies offer opportunities to work on cutting‑edge technologies in a structured environment with a wealth of resources. These internships often promise higher remuneration and added benefits like ease in securing work visas, as stated by Kalra [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5). Such experiences shape interns into reliable engineers accustomed to high‑performance standards.

On the other hand, startup internships place interns in a dynamic setting where they gain extensive coding experience and acquire a broader skill set. The fluid nature of startups often requires interns to engage in multiple roles, thus broadening their understanding of business operations. As Kalra notes, executing personal projects and having a real impact on the company’s direction are unique benefits of working at a startup [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5). These challenges help shape versatile professionals who are comfortable working outside conventional job descriptions.

Kalra’s insightful recommendation to pursue both industrial spectra—Big Tech and startups—brings to light the nuanced learning available in each. By having a foot in both doors, so to speak, students can leverage a dual perspective on innovation and operational efficiency. This dual training can carve out entrepreneurs who are as adept at molding innovative ideas as they are at scaling them, a balance that is invaluable in today’s tech‑driven market [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

While the pathways offered by Big Tech internships often feature structured growth and a clear career progression, startup environments foster creativity and resilience due to their high‑risk, high‑reward nature. Kalra’s narrative emphasizes that choosing one over the other could lead to a skewed perception of the tech landscape, hence she advocates for a comprehensive internship approach [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5). This strategy ensures well‑rounded, adaptable minds primed for any future career obstacle.

Public reactions to internship experiences, particularly those in both Big Tech and startups, are varied. Many students and professionals find value in interning at major tech companies due to the prestige, structured work environment, and comprehensive learning opportunities they offer. These internships are often seen as a gateway to understanding large‑scale software development and high‑impact projects, as mentioned by,¹ an AI engineer at OpenAI. Big Tech internships are appreciated for their competitive salaries and the potential career advantages they bestow. On platforms like Reddit, users frequently discuss how these experiences can significantly bolster a résumé and provide interns with exposure to cutting‑edge technologies and ideas.

Conversely, startup internships are valued for their dynamic and immersive work environments. They offer a contrasting experience of tech culture where interns may have more responsibility and direct influence on projects. ¹ highlights that such internships can cultivate a broader skill set, as interns often juggle multiple roles, gaining insights into both the technical and business aspects of operations. This hands‑on experience is seen as instrumental in fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking. Critics of startup internships point out the potential drawbacks, such as lower pay and less job security, but acknowledge that the learning curve can be exceptionally steep and rewarding.

Some members of the tech community, as observed in discussions, suggest that a dual internship experience—completing internships in both Big Tech and startups—could provide the most comprehensive career insights. This approach is strongly advocated by ¹ to ensure well‑rounded professional development. However, this dual‑path recommendation has sparked debates on accessibility and privilege, as not every student may afford to intern in vastly different environments, potentially leading to disparities.

The trend towards pursuing internships in varied tech environments aligns with the growing demand for versatile and skilled tech specialists. According to industry reports, the AI job market is booming, further encouraging students to diversify their early career experiences. While the call for diversified internships is met with approval among some circles, it remains essential for educational institutions and companies to work toward making these opportunities accessible to a broader range of students, irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds. Such inclusivity in internships can lead to a more diverse and innovative workforce, driving future technological advancement and economic growth.

Navigating the intricate landscape of career decisions is a significant challenge for students, particularly in a rapidly evolving field like technology. The choices made during the formative years of a student's career can have long‑lasting implications. Janvi Kalra, a prominent AI engineer at OpenAI, offers compelling insights into the future implications of internship choices for students aiming to carve out successful career paths in tech. According to Kalra, diversifying one's experience by interning at both Big Tech companies and startups is not just beneficial but crucial for understanding personal career preferences and industry dynamics [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

Internships serve as a practical introduction to the tech industry, offering students a real‑world perspective of their chosen field. By interning at a Big Tech company, students gain insights into the workings of large‑scale enterprises, experiencing firsthand the robust processes, extensive networks, and resources available, all of which contribute to high‑quality software development. These experiences are complemented by the innovative scope of projects often described as 'moonshots', designed to push the boundaries of what's technically possible, albeit with less immediate pressure for financial returns [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

On the flip side, working in a startup environment offers a starkly different yet invaluable set of experiences. Startups provide an immersive environment where interns can engage in a wide variety of tasks across different domains. This environment is ideal for honing coding skills and learning how to adapt quickly to new challenges and technologies. Interning at a startup ensures that students are at the nucleus of innovative problem‑solving methods and dynamic project executions, encouraging a hands‑on approach and a comprehensive understanding of business operations [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

The dual exposure to both big corporations and startups equips students with a well‑rounded skill set, preparing them for diverse career paths in technology. Economically, this strategy enhances the competitiveness of the workforce, potentially boosting productivity by creating a pool of skilled tech professionals who are versatile and adaptable [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5). Additionally, it prepares students to better navigate the complex career landscape, enabling them to make informed decisions about their professional pursuits. This holistic approach is not just about acquiring skills; it's about shaping future leaders who are capable of bridging the gap between inherently different business environments and driving innovation forward.

Yet, this approach is not without potential challenges. The opportunity to engage in multiple internships may not be equally accessible to all students, possibly leading to disparities based on socio‑economic backgrounds. This could perpetuate a cycle wherein only students with specific resources and networks can fully explore the breadth of opportunities available, potentially marginalizing those who lack such access [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5). Hence, discussions on facilitating equitable access to diverse internship opportunities are critical, ensuring that all students can benefit from the advantages of such formative experiences.

Kalra's insights highlight the importance of understanding different work environments early in one's career. This knowledge can be transformative, giving students the confidence to navigate their future career paths with clarity and precision. Ultimately, the adoption of her advice on internships could lead to a more dynamic and diversified tech industry, capable of sustaining innovation through the diverse talents and experiences of its workforce [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/openai‑engineer‑students‑intern‑big‑tech‑and‑startups‑2025‑5).

Dual internships, where students gain experience in both Big Tech and startup environments, have profound economic, social, and political implications. Economically, participating in both types of internships equips students with a diverse set of skills that can enhance their productivity and effectiveness in the workforce. ¹ suggests this approach creates a competitive edge, enabling students to understand different operational models, from the resource‑rich projects in Big Tech to the dynamic, hands‑on challenges in startups.

Socially, dual internships can foster a more collaborative and innovative tech culture. By bridging the structured corporate atmosphere of Big Tech with the agile and flexible nature of startups, interns can develop a holistic perspective on innovation that benefits both environments. Moreover, this blending of experiences can encourage inclusivity and diversify tech industry insights. However, there are concerns that access to these opportunities might remain exclusive to students who can afford them, potentially increasing social stratification within the industry. Kalra's insights underline the importance of making these opportunities accessible to a broader demographic to mitigate such disparities (³).

Politically, the dual internship trend could empower tech leaders who are well‑versed in navigating both established and emerging market challenges. This could potentially increase their influence on shaping technology policy and regulatory landscapes. As dual‑internship experiences proliferate, the concentration of talented individuals in both arenas may enhance the sector's contribution to informed policymaking. However, this might also lead to a consolidation of power within few major players, raising questions about the diversity of influence in technological development and governance.³