How to get a Software Engineer Internship in 2024 (with no experience)

Summary

The video offers valuable advice for those seeking software internships, emphasizing the importance of exploring opportunities beyond co-op websites, optimizing resumes with keywords, leveraging AI tools to streamline the application process, and networking with peers for referrals and insights. It also suggests adding relevant projects to one's resume and applying to a variety of companies regardless of size. The speaker shares personal experiences and tips, including the significance of LeetCode practice for technical interviews, ultimately encouraging persistence and learning from each application.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Expand your search beyond co-op websites for more internship opportunities.
• 🌐 Utilize GitHub and LinkedIn to find comprehensive job postings in one place.
• 📄 Optimize your resume with relevant keywords and maintain a simple, one-page format.
• 🤖 Use AI tools like chatbots to streamline the application process, including cover letter writing and resume customization.
• 💡 AI can also aid in interview preparation by generating potential behavioral and technical questions.
• 👥 Network with peers for referrals, job search experiences, and learning from their insights.
• 🔄 Include mentorships, hackathons, and personal projects on your resume to showcase experience.
• 🏢 Apply to both large and small companies for internships to increase your chances.
• 💻 Practice LeetCode problems to prepare for technical interviews, even if you're new to coding.
• 🚀 Persistence is key - every application brings you one step closer to a job offer.

Q & A

What is the main challenge the speaker faced when looking for their first software internship?

The main challenge the speaker faced was not receiving responses after sending out numerous applications and feeling uncertain about the process.

How many applications did the speaker send out daily during their month-long search for their first internship?

The speaker sent out five applications every day.

What was the speaker's initial reaction to the lack of responses to their job applications?

The speaker emailed their Co-op coordinator asking if something was wrong.

What is the first tip the speaker shares for landing a software internship?

The first tip is to know where to look for opportunities and not to limit oneself to just co-op websites.

Which platforms does the speaker recommend for finding software internship postings?

The speaker recommends using GitHub, LinkedIn, and websites like workast.com for startup opportunities.

How can the applicant tracking system (ATS) impact a resume's chance of being seen by a hiring manager?

The ATS scans the resume and gives it a score based on how well it matches the job posting; if the resume does not pass the ATS, it is often rejected before reaching the hiring manager.

What is the significance of using AI tools like chat GPT in the application process?

AI tools can streamline the application process by reducing the time spent on writing cover letters and customizing resumes.

How can networking be beneficial in the context of finding a software internship?

Networking can provide valuable insights from peers about job searches and company experiences, as well as potentially leading to referrals and connections with recruiters.

What types of experiences can be added to a resume to demonstrate skills and knowledge without having completed an internship?

Mentorships, hackathons, and personal projects can be included on a resume to showcase relevant skills and experiences.

Why is it important to apply to both big and small companies for internships?

Applying to a variety of companies increases the chances of landing an internship and provides exposure to different work environments and opportunities.

What advice does the speaker give for leveraging LeetCode in the context of preparing for technical interviews?

The speaker suggests regularly practicing LeetCode problems to become familiar with common technical interview questions and improve problem-solving skills.