Young Graduate Secures AI Role at 21 Through Hard Work

At just 21 years old, Hung Nguyen has secured a full-time position as a policy analyst at LoanOptions.ai, an Australian company specializing in AI-powered loan comparisons. His journey from a student in Vietnam to a professional in Australia highlights the importance of dedication and proactive learning in today’s competitive job market.

Nguyen arrived in Sydney in August 2022 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in data science at the SP Jain School of Global Management. Initially overwhelmed by the cultural shift and the cold weather, he quickly adjusted to life in Australia. A part-time job as a restaurant worker not only helped him gain financial independence but also boosted his confidence as he navigated his new environment.

During his studies, Nguyen sought to enhance his skills beyond the classroom. He completed a data science internship at a software development center, where he first encountered the challenges of coding. Despite limited hands-on experience at that stage, he leveraged online resources, notably a machine learning course by Stanford professor Andrew Ng and a deep learning masterclass by Yann LeCun from New York University. These resources proved invaluable in building a solid foundation in AI.

His persistence paid off when, in his final year, Nguyen applied for an internship at LoanOptions.ai. The company’s placement officer arranged an interview, focusing more on cultural fit than technical skills. After impressing the team, he began a three-month internship as a policy analyst in December 2024, coinciding with his final academic semester.

Balancing his internship with academic commitments and a part-time receptionist role was demanding. From January to April 2025, Nguyen managed to juggle classes, his internship, and his job, often coding during hotel shifts. He recalls one instance where he coded between reception duties, demonstrating his commitment to both his studies and professional responsibilities.

Nguyen’s strong work ethic became a hallmark of his time at LoanOptions.ai. He received praise from his managers for his reliability and dedication. By completing tasks thoroughly and efficiently, he distinguished himself among his peers. As his internship neared its conclusion, he expressed his interest in a full-time position, remaining hopeful despite uncertainties regarding the company’s budget.

In April 2025, just a month before his graduation, Nguyen received an offer for a full-time role at LoanOptions.ai, solidifying his entry into the AI industry. He attributes his success to a strong foundation in mathematics and coding, skills he developed throughout his studies and internships.

Reflecting on his experience, Nguyen emphasizes the value of internships during university. Each opportunity allowed him to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, ultimately leading to his current position in AI. His story serves as an inspiration for students and young professionals aiming to break into the tech industry.