Indian Techie Offers To Work For Free In UK, Triggers Debate Online

After graduating in 2022 with a master’s degree from the University of Leicester, Swetha has faced a challenging job market, submitting over 300 job applications for design engineering roles without securing a position. With her visa set to expire in three months, Swetha’s desperation has grown, pushing her to make a public appeal for employment.

Why Does An Indian Student Want To Work For Free In UK?

In her LinkedIn post, she candidly expressed, stating, “The job market feels like there’s no value for me, my degree, or my capabilities.” Willing to go to any lengths to prove herself, she offered to work twelve hours a day, seven days a week, adding, “Hire me for free for one month. If I don’t deliver…fire me on the spot. No questions asked.”

A designer from Amazon

Swetha’s credentials include two first-class degrees in Mechanical Engineering, extensive technical expertise in software such as AutoCAD, Solidworks, CATIA, Ansys, and NX-CAD, and a notable work stint at Amazon UK, where she consistently met daily targets and solved over 100 issues per shift. She is actively seeking roles as a design engineer, a field in which she already has substantial experience and skills. She claims in her LinkedIn profile that she improved Amazon warehouse performance by 60% as an Operations Analyst. 

Is working in the UK the only dream job?

Her post has sparked mixed reactions on social media. While some criticized her for going to what they consider “extreme” lengths to remain in the UK, others have offered encouragement and empathy. One commenter expressed disappointment in her approach, suggesting that she could thrive back home, stating, “You could go back to India and earn a ton of money if that is your dream of a UK job.” Swetha responded to this suggestion by saying, “Thanks for your suggestion, but that’s not my dream.”

Other users expressed understanding and support for her determination. One person commented, “No need to do this just for staying in the UK. Believe in yourself. If you are smart & capable, you will shine anywhere in the world.” Another user encouraged her resilience, saying, “Your dedication is inspiring. I hope someone sees the value you can bring to a team.”

While her post has sparked debate, it has also highlighted the pressures many international students face in securing a foothold in competitive job markets like the UK. The growing challenges Indian students face while securing careers abroad are more often highlighted. Swetha’s story brings to light the commitment of many international students who work tirelessly to secure a career abroad, despite the potential for rejection and setbacks.