Karnataka Student Earns Global Placement with Rolls-Royce After Missing Medical Seat

Engineering Student’s Journey from Setback to Aerospace Success

What began as a moment of disappointment for Rithuparna KS, missing out on a government medical seat following her NEET results, soon evolved into an extraordinary story of resilience, reinvention, and achievement. What initially felt like the collapse of a lifelong dream ultimately redirected her towards a remarkable opportunity: a coveted position with Rolls-Royce’s Jet Engine Manufacturing Division, a staggering Rs 72.3 lakh annual package, and a promising future in aerospace innovation, all by the age of 20. Her journey stands as a compelling example of how setbacks, when met with determination and vision, can lay the foundation for exceptional success.

Originally from Koduru in Thirthahalli taluk, Karnataka, Rithuparna had aspired to become a doctor. However, when her NEET scores did not secure a government seat, she turned to engineering out of necessity. In 2022, she gained admission to Sahyadri College of Engineering through the Common Entrance Test (CET) and enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics and Automation. Though initially disheartened, she quickly adapted, approaching her new academic path with focus and resolve.

From the outset of her college journey, Rithuparna immersed herself in learning and innovation. Her first project, a robotics-based arecanut harvester and sprayer—won gold and silver medals at the Goa INEX competition. She collaborated with doctors to explore robotic surgery, contributed to solid waste management initiatives with local officials, and participated in research with a team at NITK Surathkal.

Motivated by a strong ambition to intern with a global firm, Rithuparna reportedly approached Rolls-Royce directly. The company responded candidly, questioning her qualifications and suggesting she might struggle to complete even one of their standard tasks within a month. Undeterred, she requested a single opportunity to prove herself. Rolls-Royce assigned her a one-month challenge, which she reportedly completed in just one week.

Impressed by her performance, the company is understood to have given her further assignments. Over the next eight months, she undertook demanding projects and faced rigorous interviews, culminating in a pre-placement offer in December 2024. Since January 2025, she has been working remotely from midnight to 6 am, while continuing her college coursework. Upon completing her seventh semester, she is expected to relocate to Texas, USA, to join Rolls-Royce full-time. In April 2025, her annual package was revised from Rs 39.6 lakh to Rs 72.3 lakh, recognising her exceptional performance and potential. Rithuparna’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, proving that even the most unexpected paths can lead to extraordinary destinations.

Editor’s Note:

Rithuparna KS’s story is one of quiet strength, determination, and personal growth. Like many students, she was heartbroken when she didn’t get a government medical seat. It was a tough moment, one that could have made her give up. But instead of feeling defeated, she chose to move forward. She faced rejection, doubts from others, and tough tasks. But she stayed calm, focused, and worked hard to prove herself. In a remarkable display of capability, she completed a month-long task in a mere week. Her subsequent eight months of rigorous tests and interviews underscored not only her technical prowess but also her impressive maturity and unwavering determination. Her ultimate selection and the accolades she earned stand as a testament to the fact that perseverance in the face of adversity can truly make anything possible.

Skoobuzz encourages other students to take inspiration from Rithuparna’s journey, which shows that failure is not the end; it can be a fresh start. Even if our dreams change along the way, our determination to succeed should always remain strong.