Interning at OpenAI in San Francisco: A Personal Journey
I embarked on an extraordinary journey when I secured an internship at OpenAI in San Francisco. This experience not only shaped my career but also exposed me to the vibrant tech ecosystem of Silicon Valley. Here's a deep dive into my story, offering a unique perspective on the challenges, rewards, and insights gained during this transformative period.
The Tech Aspirations
Growing up, I had a strong inclination towards the medical field, following in the footsteps of my family. However, a pivotal computer science class in high school ignited a new passion. I decided to pursue software engineering, driven by the desire to be in the heart of the tech industry.
San Francisco, with its reputation as the epicenter of tech innovation, became my ultimate goal. I understood that to excel in tech and learn from the best, I had to be in Silicon Valley. This mindset fueled my determination to secure an internship in the city.
Networking and the Startup Culture
My networking efforts in San Francisco paid off quickly. I attended numerous tech events, connecting with engineers from various companies. This exposure to the startup culture was a game-changer. I realized that the fast-paced, ownership-driven environment of startups was where I truly belonged.
My first internship in Canada, at an early-stage startup, confirmed my preference for the startup atmosphere. The experience taught me the value of being thrown into challenging tasks and learning on the job. This mindset shift was crucial in shaping my career aspirations.
The OpenAI Internship
In late 2024, I was still juggling university and San Francisco, when a valuable connection informed me about OpenAI's internship program. I seized the opportunity, leveraging my previous internships and machine learning experience. A cold email to recruiters caught their attention, and I was invited to interview.
The technical interview rounds at OpenAI were rigorous, emphasizing speed and problem-solving. I had to complete a coding task while explaining my design process within a 45-minute block. This intense experience prepared me for the fast-paced nature of the company.
When I received the internship offer, I was thrilled. Working at a notable brand like OpenAI from May to August 2025 was a dream come true. The Mission Bay office buzzed with highly intelligent and humble individuals, fostering a collaborative and learning-rich environment.
I was immediately immersed in the startup culture, even as the largest company I had worked for. New hires were expected to contribute meaningfully from day one. I was tasked with a small change to the codebase, allowing me to make a tangible impact.
Sam Altman's Leadership
While I didn't interact extensively with Sam Altman, the CEO's commitment to intern well-being was evident. His questions about our internship experiences and support needs showcased his genuine interest in our growth. This personal touch made a lasting impression on me.
Post-Internship Decisions
Despite signing a return offer with OpenAI for Fall 2026, visa complications led me to pivot. I'm now focusing on my own agentic AI projects, recognizing the vast opportunities in the field. My youth and lack of responsibilities provide a unique advantage in this rapidly evolving landscape.
San Francisco remains my preferred location, despite its challenges. The concentration of talent and opportunities makes it a worthwhile trade-off. Canada, with its excellent universities and affordability, offered a viable alternative, but it would have limited my exposure to frontier AI.
Conclusion
My internship at OpenAI in San Francisco was a pivotal moment in my career. It not only provided valuable skills and connections but also reinforced my passion for the startup culture. As I continue to navigate the tech industry, San Francisco remains my chosen destination, fueled by its vibrant ecosystem and endless possibilities.
