Breaking Into Software

In this episode, I answered some questions from a Reddit AMA  based on my experience completing 2 internships at Google and Microsoft and getting full-time SWE offers from both companies.   The Reddit questions I answered were:  1. Hi! I’m trying to make the switch to a tech company (currently work in IT for non-tech) and have been overwhelmed with the interview process, mainly the technical assessment portion. How do you handle the pressure of them without letting imposter syndrome overtake you?  2. How did you pass the resume screening for both of them? Did you have referrals? What do you do to prepare before an interview?  3. How did you do 4 internships? At my university, we had one unit that allowed us to do a single internship.  4. How different are the SWE I and SWE II roles are? If I’m going to have around 5 years experience when I finish at my current company (second one after uni) I’m not sure yet if I can apply for the second role as that will have more compensation? Also looking for a FAANG that would sponsor H1 visa for a Canadian wanting to live in the states.

In this episode, I answered some more questions from a Reddit AMA  based on my experience completing 2 internships at Google and Microsoft and getting full-time SWE offers from both companies.   Reddit questions: 1. What types of experiences/projects did you have on your resume to get an interview? I’m only in my second year but I’ve seen so many people around me get internships already and I’m at a loss at where to start.  2. What is the best way to prep for coding challenges/whiteboarding while juggling applying to more internships, school, hobbies, and life?  3. How do I attend the Grace Hopper conference? Do I need to be nominated by my school? If my major isn't CS, then is it impossible for me to attend?  4. What did you have on your resume for your first internship?

What do fitness and nutrition have to do with preparing for technical interviews? A lot. If you aren't healthy you can't perform at your best and you can't learn as fast. Mark and I talk about his journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur of a multi-million dollar business. He gives tips on health, fitness, nutrition, and time management. This is a great episode and I hope you enjoy it!

Here's a short 5min. spiel on how to get into Google or a similar FANG company, based on my experience.