\[sorry if this is wrong sub, idk where to post this\]

I'm currently a 3rd-year student studying Computer Science with a specialization in AI/ML at a Tier-3 college in MH, India.

I've been feeling pretty lost and honestly a bit depressed about my situation.

The biggest problem is that I feel like my college has not prepared us for the skills that companies actually expect from students at this stage.

For example, as a 3rd-year CS/AIML student, I feel like I should at least have some familiarity with things like - react, Node.js, Fast API, RAG, machine learning skills etc.

But honestly, we haven't been properly taught most of these things.

Even the fundamentals aren't always taught practically. A lot of our education is focused on theory, exams, PPTs, and completing the syllabus. We aren't really taught how to actually build things or solve programming problems from scratch**.**

The same problem exists with DSA.

We have studied topics like arrays, linked lists, etc., but that's very different from actually being able to sit in front of a coding platform and solve problems.

And this is scary because I'm now in 3rd year.

**My current goal is to become employable enough to get a decent software/AI-related job despite coming from a Tier-3 college.**

I'm not expecting a huge package immediately. I'd be happy to get a decent first job and then grow from there.

My biggest question:

**If you were in my position — a 3rd-year CS/AIML student from a Tier-3 college with weak fundamentals and roughly a 6 months to become job-ready — what exact roadmap would you follow?**

I'm particularly looking for advice from people who were in a similar situation and managed to get internships/jobs despite not having a strong college environment.

I'd really appreciate answers covering:

1. **What should I learn first?**
2. **What should I completely ignore for now?**
3. **How much DSA is actually necessary for getting a decent job?**
4. **How should I apply for off-campus internships/jobs?**
5. **How can I stand out when competing with students from better colleges?**
6. **What would you personally do during the next 6 months if you were starting from my position?**

Thanks.