Landing Software Internships (as a 1st or 2nd year)
Chasing your dream of securing a software internship at big tech companies might seem like a wild and puzzling adventure. However, with a little guidance and a lot of determination, you can set yourself on a path to success and position yourself as a strong contender in the competitive landscape of big tech internships. In this guide, we are here to be your companion on this exciting journey, offering insights and advice to help you realize your ambitions and propel your career to new heights. So, are you ready to get started?
Research available Internships and Companies
Before securing your internship, researching and finding the right fit is just as crucial. At the University of Toronto, you can explore job opportunities and research options through the Engineering Career Portal, YNCN Career Fair, ASIP job portal, CLNX, and more. Beyond university resources, the internet becomes your invaluable ally! Job search platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor serve as phenomenal tools to identify hiring trends and openings. Additionally, there are also open-source GitHub repositories with lists of open internships like this! These GitHub repositories are maintained in a group effort by thousands of students out there, just like you, who are looking for an internship! Remember, we’re all in this together!
The mountains of jobs that you see posted online might be daunting and you may not know which one is even worth applying to. Well, lucky you, we have some pointers to some internships that you may be very interested in. Companies such as Google and Microsoft offer internship programs specifically tailored for 1st and 2nd-year university students only — a hidden gem that many students do not realize. Because these internships are for 1st and 2nd years only, they are generally easier to get as you won’t be competing with the upper years! Here are a few internships that are for 1st and 2nd year students only: Google STEP, Microsoft Explore, Meta University, Uber STAR, etc. There are more internships like these out there online — we highly recommend that you research and apply to internships like these as 1st and 2nd years! With that said, there are plenty of other companies like Amazon, CPP, and Deloitte that also offer opportunities for software internships that 1st/2nd years also qualify for.
If you are keen on working for a specific company and want to make your presence known, there are often company-sponsored events tailored for students to network and connect. This presents an excellent opportunity to gain insights into different industries, discover your ideal career path, and engage with like-minded individuals who share your interests.
Recruitment Timeline + Process
Recruitment timelines can be a bit of a mixed bag across different companies and industries. However, when it comes to software internships, some patterns tend to emerge depending on the country of the internship (e.g. USA or Canada) and the season (Summer, Fall, and Winter/Spring). For example, if you are applying for Summer 2024 internships in the USA, then internship applications can start opening as early as July , then through August and September of 2023. If you are applying for Canadian Summer 2024 internships, applications tend to open around December 2023 and January 2024. Most companies hire on a rolling basis, so the timing of your application can make a big difference in your quest for an internship.To boost your chances, it is a smart move to apply as early as you can as soon as the applications come out. If you are unsure whether applications have come out yet, it is often useful to see what people have to say on Reddit on their experiences looking for open applications. People on Reddit often ask questions on whether internships have opened yet and it is common for people to crowdsource knowledge on these things — just like the GitHub repository list of internships!
Once you put in your application and you move onto the interview rounds, a recruiter will reach out to you, often via email. During the interview rounds, the usual process unfolds in one/two-week cycles. Taking Google STEP internship interviews for example, when a recruiter reaches out to you for interviews, they will ask you to send all your availability within the next 2 weeks. Once your interview is scheduled, you may have 1–2 weeks until the interview. After the interview, it may take several weeks for your recruiter to get back to you with the result. The exact timeline differs between companies, but this is generally how it goes.
Almost all software internship interviews will throw coding challenges and LeetCode-style questions your way. While companies emphasize coding abilities, it is also important to remember that a well-rounded mix of behavioral and logical skills is key to succeeding on your software internship journey. Lastly, some interviewers will ask you about your experience based on your resume. So, it is also a good idea to review the bullet points on your resume so that you are able to articulate your experience confidently to the interviewer.
Preparing to Apply
When crafting your resume, endeavor to unearth aspects that are uniquely you. If you are actively engaged in extracurricular activities such as design teams, be sure to include them. These teams provide an excellent platform for showcasing your problem-solving abilities, your passions, and often, a touch of authenticity. For those with a penchant for research pursuits pursued alongside your primary academic track, don’t hesitate to mention them. Engaging in research signifies a deep commitment and intense fascination with a particular subject — attributes that undoubtedly set you apart.
Furthermore, do not underestimate the value of volunteer or leadership experiences, along with personal projects, no matter their scale. Even something as seemingly minor as creating your own personal website can demonstrate initiative and technical prowess.
As an aspiring candidate in the world of software internships, honing your coding skills is paramount. Python stands out as one of the most accessible and versatile programming languages. It is both user-friendly and powerful, making it an excellent starting point. However, do not restrict yourself; feel free to explore other languages such as Javascript, C/C++, Typescript, and beyond. Your versatility in different programming languages can be a valuable asset on your journey to success. So, embrace your uniqueness and let it shine on your resume!
How to Prepare for Interviews
You have landed an interview — congratulations! Now, let us dive into the next crucial step: preparation.
For behavioral interviews, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the tech industry, showcase genuine enthusiasm for the field, and present yourself as a candidate brimming with knowledge. If you have any prior experience or research, do not hesitate to highlight it; it can make all the difference. As we mentioned before, it is a good idea to review your resume so that you can articulate your resume to the interviewer well when you are asked about your experience based on your resume. Lastly, it might also be a good idea to think of some good stories from any of your past experiences (doesn’t have to be from a job) to answer some “Tell me about a time…” type of questions!
As for the technical interviews, your trusty companion is LeetCode. The more you practice on LeetCode, the sharper your skills become. A solid grasp of data structures, algorithms and basic software development principles are extremely important. Begin with easier questions on LeetCode, gradually working your way up to more challenging ones. It is important to note that coding in an academic setting can differ significantly from algorithmic-based-style of coding on LeetCode. So, take your time and approach it step by step. If you want good video solutions to popular LeetCode questions, consider checking out resources like NeetCode. Additionally, explore online study guides, engage in mock interviews, and practice with friends to refine your skills.
Some tips to keep in mind while preparing for your interviews:
For Behavioral Interviews: Instead of obsessing over finding the perfect words to showcase your soft skills, focus on selecting 4–5 personal stories that have left a lasting impact on you. These stories should illustrate your journey, including instances of leadership, teamwork, and overcoming challenges. Remember, recruiters are interested in seeing your human side, so do not come across as robotic!
Coding Practice: When it comes to coding solutions, consider practicing on paper or white board rather than relying solely on code editors. Write down LeetCode questions and solve them manually. This approach will force you to break down each line of code and think through the solution thoroughly, rather than simply typing away without deep understanding.
Embrace Imperfection: During mock interviews or while tackling coding questions, always remember that it’s perfectly okay if your solution is not flawless. What matters most is your thought process. Interviewers appreciate candidates who can explain why they chose a particular line of code and the reasoning behind their solution. To do this, it is imperative that you communicate clearly and consistently with the interviewer. Communicating while coding is no easy task, that is why you should do mock interviews with friends or even talk out loud to yourself while you practice interview problems. It’s not just about writing code; it is about articulating your problem-solving approach. Embrace your ability to provide thoughtful insights even if your solution is not flawless.
With these tips in your toolkit, your interview preparations can be both effective and enjoyable!
During the Interview
It is completely normal to experience stress and nervousness before an interview, especially when it is a role you truly desire. However, it is important to recognize that recruiters can often detect nervousness. Approach the interview with a composed and tranquil mindset. Always bear in mind that it’s perfectly acceptable if things do not work out; this was just one opportunity among many others. If you happen to make a mistake during the interview, refrain from dwelling on it. In the end, if you face rejection, remember that there are countless other companies and numerous opportunities waiting for you. YNCN believes in you!
Advice from Students who have worked at Big Tech companies
Research holds immense importance! Many people are unaware of the numerous first and second-year programs offered by major tech companies, which tend to be less competitive than their regular internship counterparts. There are over 70+ companies, including Uber, Meta, Pinterest, and more, offering such programs.
Frequently, your GPA may not be a critical factor. If you have limited experience and believe your GPA can help distinguish you, feel free to include it in your application.
Avoid obsessing over crafting an extensive cover letter. Often, large tech companies may not have the time to thoroughly review them. Focus your efforts on other elements of your application that hold more weight.
In the quest for software internships, particularly within the realm of big tech companies, staying positive and making the most of available resources is key to your success. Remember that this journey, while challenging, is also incredibly rewarding. The landscape of tech internships is vast, and your determination and adaptability will set you apart. Embrace the opportunities to learn and grow, whether it’s through research, networking, or honing your skills. Keep your head high, stay optimistic, and believe in your capabilities. With the right attitude and the right guidance, you are well-equipped to navigate this exciting path and secure the internship of your dreams. So, go forth with enthusiasm and make your mark in the world of software internships!
Written by: Saleha Iram and Seung Jae Yang.
Other Resources:
Create Your Resume for Google: Tips and Advice (a must-watch!)
