Google screen in 2 weeks, freaking out!! Pls help
Google Screen in 2 Weeks: Freaking Out! Please Help!
As a long-time lurker of this community, I recently got incredibly lucky to secure a technical phone screen for an Early Career Software Engineer role at Google, which is scheduled for just 14 days from now. With only about 150 LeetCode questions under my belt, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed and could use some guidance. I’d love to hear any tips and suggestions for my preparation. Currently, I’m following Neetcode’s 150/250 list and focusing on dynamic programming (DP) and graphs.
The Preparation Journey
1. Focused Practice
Firstly, I recognize that quality is far more crucial than quantity when it comes to preparation. I’ve read that solving a few problems thoroughly with a clear understanding is much more beneficial than rapidly churning out numerous questions without grasping the concepts.
2. Resources and Tools
I’ve been contemplating whether the LeetCode Premium Google list is truly reliable. While I’ve noticed that the questions on the list are fairly common and seem to lean towards the easier side, it’s essential to find resources that better mirror actual interview experiences. Beyond LeetCode, I’m exploring additional platforms like Algomap and other coding resources. If anyone has recommendations for useful YouTube channels, I’ve just started with Striver and would appreciate insights into other content creators who offer effective coding interview strategies.
3. Balancing Practice and Mental Health
One of the crucial pieces of advice I received from a friend working at Google is to prioritize rest. It’s vital to maintain mental clarity, and I’ve been reminded that overworking can lead to burnout. Taking breaks is not only necessary but essential for effective learning and preparation.
4. Interview Day Strategy
As the interview day approaches, I’ve been told to avoid cramming new information the day before. Instead, I plan to engage in relaxing activities like exercising, meditating, or even just going for a walk. This will help clear my mind and prepare me to think critically during the interview.
5. Confidence is Key
During the interview, confidence plays a significant role. Even if I encounter a problem I can’t solve, demonstrating confidence in my problem-solving abilities can leave a positive impression. I’ll remember to communicate effectively, ask clarifying questions, and not rush into coding without fully understanding the problem.
Community Insights
Top Comments from the Community
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Location Matters: It’s worth considering the geographical aspect of job opportunities, especially if you’re targeting specific regions or roles.
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LeetCode Tagging: Many users suggest that the LeetCode tagged problems are a great resource, providing an extensive list that covers a wide array of topics. However, I also found that most of these are likely included in Neetcode’s curated list.
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Clarifying Role Expectations: I’ve seen inquiries about whether this opportunity is specifically for the SWE II Early Career role that opened up in April. It’s important to clarify roles and expectations, especially when navigating the job application process.
Conclusion
As I prepare for my Google interview, I’m filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. However, I believe that with the right approach and mindset, I can navigate this challenge. I’m grateful for the community’s support and the wealth of knowledge shared here. If you have any additional tips or resources that could assist me in this journey, please share!
Best of luck to everyone else preparing for their interviews, whether at Google or elsewhere. Let’s keep pushing forward together!
Cheers!