When Hamza Mostafa started studying computer science at university, he pictured going into traditional software engineering at a Big Tech company after graduation. But he decided to specialize in AI and landed a three-month internship at OpenAI in 2024. Now he shares his tips for breaking into the AI field.
Go Broad, Specialize, and Build
Mostafa suggests starting with a broad understanding of AI and machine learning, then zeroing in on a specialization. For him, that was AI agents. Once you've chosen your niche, dive deep and start building projects around it. "The best way I learn is by doing and by building," he says. These projects become concrete examples to discuss in interviews, showing employers you've explored the field. People who can demonstrate deep understanding and follow this three-step formula are "highly employable."
Ask AI to Teach You About AI
Use AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude to explain key concepts. Mostafa still does this daily: "I'll go on Claude or ChatGPT and have it explain these concepts to me to make sure I really understand to the deepest level, but also to a level where I can explain it to my mother." He also recommends YouTube for "intro to AI" videos covering natural language processing and large language models.
Focus on What You Can Control
"The tech ecosystem sometimes can be a bit toxic," Mostafa says, noting that LinkedIn can be demotivating. Instead of worrying about the job market, he concentrated on getting his résumé in order and networking. His advice: focus on what's in your control, and encourage students and job seekers to do the same.
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