When 18-year-old Matteo Zanini received his acceptance letter from Brown University, he expected his future to follow a familiar path—college, a degree, then a career. But another offer soon landed in his inbox: a place in Palantir Technologies’ new “Meritocracy Fellowship.” The opportunity promised immediate, hands-on work experience at one of the world’s most influential data analytics firms, bypassing college entirely.
To many around him, the idea sounded unwise. Teachers, friends, and counselors unanimously advised him to choose Brown, especially since he’d secured a full-ride scholarship from the Department of Defense. But Palantir’s message—arguing that “college is broken” and that merit should outweigh traditional credentials—resonated deeply. With his parents leaving the decision to him, Zanini took the leap.
A Corporate Alternative to College
Zanini is part of an inaugural group of 22 high school graduates chosen from more than 500 applicants to join Palantir’s “Meritocracy Fellowship,” an experimental program designed by CEO Alex Karp. The initiative reflects Karp’s belief that American universities have grown too detached from the practical skills and intellectual rigor needed in today’s workforce.
Palantir, known for its deep ties to U.S. military and intelligence agencies, has long been a lightning rod for debate. While the company has expanded its commercial operations, it remains rooted in a patriotic, mission-driven ethos—one that values decisive action over academic pedigree.
In an earnings call earlier this year, Karp noted that hiring from universities often brings in candidates “more focused on rhetoric than results,” reinforcing his motivation to find talent through unconventional means.
The Fellowship’s Unusual Curriculum
Before beginning their work assignments, fellows attended a four-week seminar that served as both an academic and cultural boot camp. The curriculum blended history, philosophy, and civics, covering topics like Western thought, U.S. history, and political movements. Case studies on figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill were designed to teach leadership and critical thinking.
According to Jordan Hirsch, a senior counselor who helped develop the fellowship, the program aimed to offer more than a traditional internship. Many fellows, fresh from high school, found themselves exploring ideas and subjects they’d never studied before. One even admitted he had never taken notes in class prior to the seminar.
The sessions also addressed complex philosophical questions—what defines Western civilization, what challenges it faces, and whether it remains worth defending—concepts Palantir considers central to its worldview.
Hands-On Experience and Real Projects
Once the seminars ended, the fellows were placed on active Palantir teams alongside experienced “forward-deployed engineers,” employees who work directly with clients across industries. The assignments were immediate and demanding—students were expected to contribute to real-world projects for sectors like healthcare, defense, and insurance within days of starting.
The program’s “trial by fire” approach quickly revealed which participants could adapt to the company’s fast-paced culture. By the end of the first month, Palantir managers reportedly had a good sense of which fellows might fit well in long-term roles. Those who succeed could be offered full-time positions, skipping college entirely.
Personal Challenges and Shifting Expectations
For some fellows, the experience has created tension at home. Zanini’s mother initially thought the program would serve as a short gap-year experiment before he returned to college. Now, that plan is uncertain. Despite family concerns, he describes the work as challenging but fulfilling, particularly the level of trust and responsibility he’s been given so early.
Other fellows face similar crossroads. Some may return to higher education, while others could stay with Palantir if offered permanent positions. Regardless of their decisions, program mentors believe the experience has fundamentally changed how these young professionals view education and work.
According to Palantir staff involved in the program, the fellowship’s goal isn’t just recruitment—it’s about developing a new kind of talent pipeline that prizes initiative and independent thought over formal credentials.
