Internship requests usually follow a predictable and professional format, but one particular email recently became the talk of social media after catching the eye of an Indian CEO—and not for the right reasons. Dhravya Shah, who leads the San Francisco-based company Supermemory, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a rather unconventional internship application that landed in his inbox.
The email instantly stood out because of its overly casual tone. Addressed with the opening “Dear CEO bro,” it broke away from the standard formalities typically expected in professional communication. What made it even more striking was its subject line—instead of something descriptive about the role or company, the applicant boldly titled it “It’s a bug in the product.” This unusual choice, although likely intended to grab attention, certainly achieved that goal—but in an unexpected way.
Shah humorously captioned his post “How not to cold email” before detailing the contents of the message. The email contained no mention of prior experience or achievements, nor did it attempt to convincingly sell the candidate’s skills. The applicant candidly admitted that much of the message had been generated using AI and even apologized for the misleading subject line, claiming it was only meant to ensure the email was opened. Despite the unconventional approach, the tone reflected an eagerness to join an innovative startup. The applicant concluded by expressing a strong desire to work with a company that had the potential to become the “next big thing.”
Social Media Reacts with Amusement
Once shared online, the post quickly went viral, sparking both laughter and debate among users. Many found the email amusing, describing it as a creative but misguided attempt to stand out. One user humorously dubbed the applicant the “final boss of cold emails,” while another remarked that the student’s boldness deserved recognition, suggesting they might even be given a chance simply for daring to be different. Others pointed out that the CEO’s decision to share the message publicly indicated that, despite its flaws, the email had indeed captured his attention more than once.
Since its posting on October 24, 2025, the tweet has drawn over 62,000 views and hundreds of comments, highlighting how even a poorly executed application can spark a conversation about creativity, risk-taking, and the evolving norms of professional communication.
The email instantly stood out because of its overly casual tone. Addressed with the opening “Dear CEO bro,” it broke away from the standard formalities typically expected in professional communication. What made it even more striking was its subject line—instead of something descriptive about the role or company, the applicant boldly titled it “It’s a bug in the product.” This unusual choice, although likely intended to grab attention, certainly achieved that goal—but in an unexpected way.
How to not cold email:
— Dhravya Shah (@DhravyaShah) October 23, 2025
- subject saying it's a bug in the product
- "Dear CEO bro,"
- nothing mentioned about past experience, didn't sell hard enough
- "The above is matter all written in AI"
- sent to personal email
- sorry for the subject, it was just to get you to open it pic.twitter.com/0Oqmrm7tgw
Shah humorously captioned his post “How not to cold email” before detailing the contents of the message. The email contained no mention of prior experience or achievements, nor did it attempt to convincingly sell the candidate’s skills. The applicant candidly admitted that much of the message had been generated using AI and even apologized for the misleading subject line, claiming it was only meant to ensure the email was opened. Despite the unconventional approach, the tone reflected an eagerness to join an innovative startup. The applicant concluded by expressing a strong desire to work with a company that had the potential to become the “next big thing.”
Social Media Reacts with Amusement
Once shared online, the post quickly went viral, sparking both laughter and debate among users. Many found the email amusing, describing it as a creative but misguided attempt to stand out. One user humorously dubbed the applicant the “final boss of cold emails,” while another remarked that the student’s boldness deserved recognition, suggesting they might even be given a chance simply for daring to be different. Others pointed out that the CEO’s decision to share the message publicly indicated that, despite its flaws, the email had indeed captured his attention more than once.
Since its posting on October 24, 2025, the tweet has drawn over 62,000 views and hundreds of comments, highlighting how even a poorly executed application can spark a conversation about creativity, risk-taking, and the evolving norms of professional communication.
You may also like
'Will prevent misuse': Rajasthan cracks down over midday meal 'theft'; 5 teachers suspended for selling milk powder to sweet manufacturers
George Russell fumes on Mercedes team radio with frustration clear to see
Antiques Roadshow guest's four-word response at eye-watering figure for 'dirty glass' ring
2 Slovenian ministers quit after deadly attack linked to Roma community tensions
Meghan Markle shares adorable video of Archie and Lilibet with Harry at pumpkin farm
