Job Rejection Sparks Major Insight: ‘Be Nervous, Not Aloof’

UPDATE: In a startling revelation, Ibrahim Shah, a 22-year-old computer science student at the University of California, Irvine, shares his experience of being rejected from his dream job at Anduril due to a perceived sense of “aloofness.” This candid reflection, posted on social media, has sparked widespread discussion about job interviews and authenticity.

Shah applied for an early-career software engineering position at Anduril, making it through two rounds of interviews before receiving feedback that would change his perspective on job interviews forever. “I was anticipating really hard questions,” Shah admitted, explaining how the pressure to perform led him to mask his true feelings.

The rejection email, received on October 21, 2025, included comments from a recruiter that Shah sounded “aloof and indifferent to the role.” This unexpected feedback left him shocked and frustrated, prompting a moment of introspection. “I can’t believe I ruined a life-changing opportunity for myself because I messed up the behavioral portion,” he expressed.

Shah’s initial phone screen had gone exceptionally well. He reported feeling bright and excited about the role, emphasizing his desire to work at a company making a real impact through partnerships with the U.S. government. However, as he prepared for the technical interview, nerves took over. “I studied probably 80 coding questions,” he revealed, but the anticipation of difficult questions clouded his communication.

He reflected on the emotional toll of the experience, recognizing that trying to appear composed ultimately detracted from his true enthusiasm. “My main takeaway is that it’s better to be nervous and authentic than to pretend like you have composure,” Shah stated, highlighting the importance of showing genuine emotion during interviews.

This revelation resonates with many job seekers who often face the daunting task of balancing nerves with the need to present themselves as confident candidates. As Shah’s story gained traction online, he found himself inundated with interview opportunities from other tech companies and startups, including Perplexity and Thinking Machines.

His experience is a stark reminder of the human element in job applications, reinforcing the idea that authenticity can often leave a more lasting impression than a perfectly polished facade. “It seems like everybody is trying to interview me now, which is amazing,” he noted, reflecting on the unexpected positive outcomes following his rejection.

NEXT STEPS: As the conversation continues, job seekers everywhere are encouraged to embrace their nerves and showcase their authentic selves during interviews. Companies like Anduril may be taking notice of the growing emphasis on behavioral insights, urging candidates to find a balance between confidence and sincerity.

This story not only highlights the challenges of the job market but also serves as a beacon of hope for those who may feel overwhelmed by the pressure of interviews. The evolving narrative around interview techniques might just pave the way for a more genuine approach in hiring practices across the tech industry.