As 2025 kicks off, I’m inspired by a few new initiatives, particularly the concept of “building in public.” Recently, I read about how MBAs are losing favor in the job market—a trend that some of the largest venture capitalists say shows no signs of slowing down. There’s a good reason for this as well, and that’s because people are building in public more than ever, sharing their work front and center across their networks. When you do this, no background is needed to showcase who you are or your talents. Actually, your very online presence is more of a proof of work than any degree you may have.

What I find especially interesting is to also look at this trend through the eyes of venture capitalist who has funded hundreds of startups in the last 10 years. By now, you have more than enough data. Tou’ve likely seen your fair share of startups come and go, succeed and fail. One key insight stands out: backgrounds don’t matter as much when deciding to invest in founders. What truly matters is the work ethic, the vision, and the relentless grind to get started. Time and time again the greatest companies and someone’s background show no correlation at all.

As I reflect on my career, I’m reminded that my start in tech wasn’t about my background or résumé—it was about my ability to build in public. I’ve been on X (formerly Twitter) for over a decade now, networking and connecting with like-minded people, pushing the boundaries of my vision, and chasing the dreams I want to accomplish.

Few networks encourage growth, creativity, and connection in the way X does. Its unique environment lets you share ideas, engage with multiple media formats, and connect directly with industry leaders. This platform alone has landed me both of my jobs and my career today.

So, with that in mind, and the recent hiring trends, I plan to reembrace building in public even more in 2025 like I once did when I was getting started as a twenty year old. I’ll be sharing my journey here throughout the year—my wins, lessons, and maybe even a few failures.

If you’re a college student today, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way that I’d recommend:

1. Build your brand online. Your digital footprint matters more than ever.
2. Connect with like-minded people. The internet has made networking easier than ever before.
3. Engage with your idols. You can tweet, meme, react, and follow the CEOs and founders of your favorite companies.
4. Showcase your portfolio. A great personal website can open doors.
5. Build in public. Share your work transparently, and let your effort speak for itself. You might even build something that turns into a business.

Building in public isn’t just a strategy—it’s a mindset. It’s about sharing your process, learning as you go, and inspiring others along the way. I build in public both here on my blog, on X, and other networks around the web.

If you want to build in public in 2025, there’s only thing you have to do, and it is the hardest: There’s nothing harder than getting started on a project. Talking about a project is easy. Joining a project that’s already been built? Easy. But creating something from scratch? That’s the hardest part. It takes someone fearless, someone ready to share their creation with the world.

Build in Public 2025! Let’s go.