# What Should Fresh Graduates Do Right Now?

By Vinay

Founder of Vtricks Technologies

Domain: Career Guidance & Software Training | July 2026

You just graduated, and the world is telling you two contradictory things at once: "AI will replace developers" and "there's never been a better time to be in tech." Both statements are noisy, and neither one gives you a plan. So let's build one.

The truth is simple. AI is not disappearing your career, it is reshaping what makes a developer valuable. Here is a practical, 5-step roadmap for what you should be doing right now, today, to become the kind of professional who thrives in an AI-powered industry.

## Your 5-Step Roadmap, Starting Today

#### Step 1: Learn Core Programming

Before chasing advanced technologies, build a strong foundation. AI can generate code, but it cannot replace a developer who understands algorithms, data structures, and logical thinking.

`Focus areas: Python · Java · JavaScript`

#### Step 2: Build Real Projects

Certificates help you learn, but projects prove your skills. Recruiters are far more impressed by a working portfolio than a long list of course completions.

`Build: Full Stack Apps · AI Chatbots · Dashboards · Automation Tools`

#### Step 3: Learn AI Tools

Instead of fearing AI, learn to use it effectively. AI should enhance your productivity, not replace your understanding.

`Get proficient: ChatGPT · GitHub Copilot · Claude · Gemini`

#### Step 4: Develop a Professional Portfolio

Your resume tells recruiters what you know. Your portfolio proves it. A well-maintained GitHub profile and personal website set you apart in a competitive market.

`Showcase: Projects · Source Code · Docs · Open Source Contributions`

#### Step 5: Never Stop Learning

Languages evolve, frameworks improve, and AI keeps transforming software development every year. The most successful professionals are lifelong learners.

`Stay sharp: Blogs · Open Source · Coding Challenges · Webinars`

## A Message to Every Graduate

Every major technological revolution has created uncertainty. When computers became common, many feared widespread unemployment. When the internet transformed businesses, people worried traditional careers would disappear. When cloud computing became mainstream, organizations feared automation would replace professionals.

Yet history has shown something remarkable: every technological revolution has created more opportunities than it eliminated. Artificial Intelligence is no different. The software industry is not disappearing, it is evolving. Roles like AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Prompt Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Automation Specialist, and AI Product Manager are now among the fastest-growing careers in tech.

The professionals who succeed will not be those who fear AI. They will be the ones who embrace it, keep learning, and use it to solve bigger, smarter, and more meaningful business problems. If you start building your skills today, you'll be ready for the next generation of software careers.

## Final Thoughts

Will AI replace software developers? No.

Will AI transform software development? Absolutely.

The real question is not "Will AI replace me?" Instead, ask yourself: "Am I preparing myself to become the kind of developer who can thrive in an AI-powered world?" Demand for professionals who combine programming, problem solving, cloud computing, data analytics, and effective communication keeps growing across industries.

Your software career is not ending before it begins. In many ways, it is only just getting started.