Amazon SDE-2 [L5] Interview Failed (Heart Broken)

Hi guys!

Two weeks ago, I had the opportunity to interview for an L5 position at Amazon, and today I received the disappointing news that I did not clear the interview process.

I put in a significant amount of effort preparing for this opportunity, dedicating myself to understanding the intricacies of Amazon’s interview style and the technical challenges they typically present. This was not just another interview for me; it was the closest I had ever come to securing a position at a FAANG company. Naturally, I had high hopes, as I had previously believed that such opportunities were out of reach for me.

This was particularly important to me because, for a long time, I doubted my ability to break into a FAANG company. The sense of anticipation I felt leading up to the interview was palpable, and the thought of joining such a prestigious organization was exhilarating. However, receiving the news of my failure was a crushing blow, as I had convinced myself that this was my last chance to make it into a company of this caliber.

In light of this experience, I find myself at a crossroads. Should I dive back into preparation for another attempt at a FAANG company, or should I continue honing my skills in my current role and consider opportunities elsewhere?

Interview Experience

If you’re interested in the details of my interview experience, you can read about it here: Amazon SDE-2 L5 Interview Experience.

Reflecting on the Journey

While the disappointment is real, it’s essential to remember that one setback does not define my career trajectory. Many people have faced similar experiences, and it’s important to acknowledge that the road to success is often filled with obstacles.

I’ve received some insightful comments on my initial post:

• “Where are you working currently?" Yes, I do have a job, and it’s important to recognize the value of my current position. The experience and skills I gain there are invaluable.

• “Location?" It’s interesting how location can affect opportunities. I currently work in a tech hub, which offers various career paths.

• “Why would it be your last chance? Are you retiring or something?" This was more about my mental state than a literal last chance. It’s easy to feel that way when you’ve invested so much into a single goal.

• “Why would you have high hopes? You literally have a job. How are you acting like your life is over?" I appreciate this perspective. While I do have a job, the desire to grow and challenge myself in a different environment is strong. I know there are other companies out there, but the allure of FAANG is hard to ignore.

Moving Forward

In conclusion, failure is a part of the journey. I will take this experience as a learning opportunity. Perhaps I’ll focus on improving my skills further or exploring other companies that align with my career aspirations.

Thank you for your support, and feel free to reach out if you have any advice or insights to share. Let’s keep the conversation going!

This blog post captures the journey of preparing for a challenging interview, the emotional impact of the outcome, and the importance of resilience in the face of setbacks. It invites readers to reflect and engage in a supportive community.