How do you break into one of the most competitive tech careers, navigate interviews at Amazon, and prepare for a future shaped by AI—all while still in school? This episode is packed with insights for aspiring Technical Program Managers (TPMs), international students, and anyone eyeing top-tier roles in tech.

We kick things off with the day-to-day life of a Technical Program Manager—what the role actually looks like beyond the buzzwords. From managing complex projects to aligning cross-functional teams, you’ll get a realistic picture of what makes TPMs so critical inside companies like Amazon.

The conversation then shifts to the skills that define TPM success: communication, stakeholder management, and the ability to turn ambiguity into structured execution. Meri emphasizes what students can start doing from their very first semester to build an edge, including the kinds of projects, internships, and habits that recruiters actually value.

We also talk strategy around academics—choosing electives, writing scholarship essays, and even knowing when it’s okay to drop a course—because success isn’t just about grinding; it’s about smart decision-making that sets you up long term.

The episode gets tactical with job hunting in 2025 and beyond. How do you stand out when applications are skyrocketing? We explore the nuances of shortlisting, what Amazon (and other FAANGs) really look for, and how unconventional paths—like starting as a Business Analyst—can still land you in TPM roles.

A highlight of the discussion is the Amazon loop interview process. We break down behavioral questions, the infamous Bar Raiser round, and practical hacks to stay calm under pressure. You’ll hear why rushing to answer is a mistake, how to pace yourself, and how to prepare stories that resonate with interviewers.

We then pivot to how AI is transforming technical roles. Far from replacing humans, AI is becoming a tool TPMs can leverage—whether it’s automating repetitive tasks or augmenting decision-making. Understanding this shift could be the single biggest differentiator for future TPMs.

Threaded throughout is a bigger theme: adaptability. From facing rejections to reframing career pivots, the episode shows how resilience and perspective can turn setbacks into stepping stones.

This episode is a must-listen for:

• Students aiming for Amazon, Microsoft, or other big tech TPM roles

• International students navigating scholarships, electives, and career prep abroad

• Early professionals curious about career pivots into program management

• Tech aspirants who want to understand how AI will reshape their roles

If you’ve ever wondered how to get from classroom to career, crack Amazon’s toughest interviews, or position yourself for long-term success as a Technical Program Manager, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and an actionable roadmap.

Timestamps:
00:00 Intro + Background
02:11 A Day in the Life of a Technical Program Manager
05:44 Key Skills for Success in TPM Roles
09:06 Start doing this from the FIRST semester for TPM roles
11:10 How to write scholarship essay
12:14 Choosing the right electives
16:04 its okay to bail on electives
17:46 How to get shortlisted for jobs in 2025
23:28 Journey to Amazon: Business Analyst turned TPM?
27:36 Loop Interview Process + Hacks
29:05 How to Answer Behavioral Questions
30:55 The Loop Interview Experience
32:20 Navigating The Bar Raiser
37:12 How to Prepare for Loop Interviews
39:41 Do NOT rush to start answering
41:41 Rejected for Analyst, but offered TPM?
44:40 Leveraging AI in Tech Roles