Google STEP Internship 2024 | Hiring Experience | Resume Tips | Preparation

Summary

In this insightful video, Arohi, a former STEP intern at Google, shares her experience and tips for applying to the Google STEP (Student Training and Engineering Program) Internship. She discusses the application process, interview preparation, and the technical focus on Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). Arohi offers resume-building advice, emphasizing consistency in tech-related activities, hackathons, and projects. She also highlights the value of mock interviews and long-term preparation. Despite her internship being virtual, Arohi reflects on her enriching experience, the supportive team, and the lessons learned, including how performance impacts the chance of receiving a return offer.

Takeaways

• 😀 STEP (Student Training in Engineering Program) is an internship program by Google aimed at second-year students, focusing on underrepresented groups in tech, particularly women in tech.
• 😀 The STEP internship offers two primary roles: Hardware and Software internships, with some preference given based on academic background (EC or core branches for hardware).
• 😀 The application process for STEP internships varies depending on whether you are applying on-campus or off-campus. Off-campus applications involve resume screening and technical interviews, while on-campus processes are typically quicker and involve direct interviews without a resume elimination round.
• 😀 A referral can significantly improve your chances during resume screening, but it is not mandatory. The resume should highlight consistent involvement in tech-related activities.
• 😀 The interview process consists of technical interviews, mostly focused on Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). Coding is expected to be done in real-time on a shared Google Doc, with an emphasis on writing clean and efficient code.
• 😀 The interviews typically last 45 minutes, with candidates being asked to solve 1-2 DSA problems per interview. Candidates are expected to write complete code and handle test cases on their own.
• 😀 Preparing for the STEP internship requires thorough practice in DSA. Completing 200+ problems on platforms like LeetCode and GeeksforGeeks is recommended. Additionally, online courses, such as those by Pratik Narang, can help to refine DSA skills.
• 😀 For resume building, it’s important to showcase ongoing involvement in tech (even without prior internships), participation in hackathons, and relevant projects. A strong, concise, and quantifiable resume is essential.
• 😀 Interview questions are generally consistent across candidates, and practicing mock interviews (including via platforms like Pramp) can help you build confidence and improve problem-solving under pressure.
• 😀 STEP interns are assessed based on their performance, and those who do well may receive a return offer for a summer internship the following year. However, this is performance-dependent, and unsuccessful candidates may need to wait a year before reapplying for the same role.

Q & A

What is the Google STEP internship program?

The Google STEP (Student Training in Engineering Program) internship is designed for second-year students, especially targeting underrepresented groups in technology and women in tech. It offers opportunities for students to intern in software or hardware roles at Google, focusing on career development in the tech industry.

Is there a difference between the hardware and software STEP internship roles?

The hardware and software STEP internship roles are not separate openings but are categorized based on your background. If you're from an Electrical or Computer Engineering (EC) or a core engineering background, you're encouraged to apply for the hardware role. However, the application process itself is unified.

What is the application process for the STEP internship?

The application process differs for on-campus and off-campus candidates. On-campus applications are typically faster, with no resume elimination and interviews happening on-campus. For off-campus applications, candidates apply through Google's career site, and the process includes resume screening, followed by technical interviews.

What was the timeline for your STEP internship application?

I applied for the STEP internship in late November 2021, and I received an interview invitation in mid-January 2022. The overall process took about two months, including resume screening and interviews.

How many interview rounds were involved in the STEP internship selection process?

There were typically two technical interviews, although some candidates might have a third or fourth round depending on the interviewer's judgment. The interviews focus on DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms) problems and require coding the solution during the interview.

What was the format of the STEP internship interviews?

The interviews were technical, with a focus on solving two DSA problems, usually within a 45-minute time frame. Candidates were expected to write clean and efficient code and explain their approach. It was also encouraged to write test cases for the solution.

How did you prepare for the STEP internship interviews?

My preparation focused on practicing DSA through platforms like LeetCode and GeeksforGeeks, completing over 200 questions. Additionally, I followed a course by Pratik Narang on Udemy to solidify my understanding of DSA concepts. I also did mock interviews to simulate real interview conditions.

What are some tips for improving your resume for a STEP internship?

Your resume should showcase consistent involvement in tech-related activities, such as hackathons, projects, and relevant coursework. It's essential to quantify achievements, include links to your projects, and make sure it's concise (one page). Including any technical writings or contributions, such as writing a book chapter, can make your resume stand out.

What is the significance of referrals in the application process?

Referrals can make a significant difference in the application process, as they help your resume stand out among thousands of applicants. A referral helps ensure your resume gets more attention and consideration during the resume screening phase.

How did your STEP internship experience at Google go, and what was the environment like?

Even though my internship was virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the experience was still incredible. Google organized various events and gaming sessions for interns to connect. I worked on testing APIs and was introduced to new technologies, which helped me grow professionally. The environment was supportive, with people eager to help me succeed.