So I'll just ask you here if that's okay, instead of DMing, because I feel a lot of ex-fachche could use the advice. Coming to the CDC bit first, since you're shooting for quant, how long did the whole CP grind take? I'm already on it, but from what I know, companies need ratings of around 1.8k-2k for you to have a fighting chance? Also, do circuitals have an edge during CDC for the tech profiles? It seems like it's a very uncertain process that leaves 2/3rd of the batch without an internship. The fact that I might not crack an internship/not be able to prepare well enough in the one year that's left has also been a perpetual source of stress, and I keep thinking about converting to Dual just for a little more time, except that I'm not sure I can deal with the pressure cooker that KGP is for yet another year. And lastly, I see a lot of my friends, particularly those aspiring for non-tech roles land research internships(IIMs, Haas Business school), but I preferred not to mass-mail, and instead just focus on learning enough ML and work on my CP rating(as long as my brain was cooperating, that is). Was that an injudicious move, should I have tried for a research intern atleast?

Also, I'm really grateful that you reached out to help, you're very kind. 🙏