Maybe instead of approaching the HR guy with your carefully crafted resume and explanation, reach out to the engineer you contacted and ask for his advice. The

Maybe instead of approaching the HR guy with your carefully crafted resume and explanation, reach out to the engineer you contacted and ask for his advice. These guys are often far enough removed from bureaucracy and HR they might give you some honest advice. But be tactful with him too. You don't want him running to the HR guy like "nevermind he's a high school punk" Above all, you're young, so do whatever you can to strike some sort of relationship with them as you mature. Keep yourself in their mind. Attend company events, submit more patches, ask for an internship or freelance work. You have your foot in the door already, just keep it going.