Got into FAANG

Date : September 21, 2024
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Got Into FAANG: My Journey to Landing an Amazon Offer

When you dream of working for a tech giant like Amazon, the journey can often feel like an uphill battle filled with countless applications and rejections. For a while, I was caught in that cycle. I diligently applied to various positions within FAANG (Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google), but each time, my hopes were dashed by a rejection email. After a while, I found myself disheartened, almost indifferent to the whole process.

The Unexpected Call

Then, out of the blue, I received a call about an interview opportunity at Amazon. This was especially surprising because I had applied two months prior and hadn’t heard a peep since. Initially, I was shocked, but that shock quickly morphed into excitement mixed with a bit of anxiety. The recruiter informed me that my interview was scheduled for just 10 days later.

Preparing for Success

With only ten days to prepare, I knew I had to make every moment count. I dedicated myself to grinding on LeetCode for five hours each day, specifically focusing on problems that were commonly associated with Amazon’s interview process. I also took time to study Amazon’s Leadership Principles (LPs), as I understood how crucial they are in the interview process.

During my preparation, I reflected on my own career experiences, trying to identify stories and examples that would connect with these principles. I wanted to ensure I could articulate how my past could align with Amazon’s values.

The Interview Day

The day of the interview arrived, and I was a bundle of nerves. However, the moment the interview began, I was pleasantly surprised by how friendly and calm everyone was. Their welcoming demeanor helped to ease my anxiety, allowing me to focus on the task at hand.

I was presented with two medium-difficulty LeetCode problems that I had never encountered before. Despite the unfamiliarity, I managed to solve both problems and even improved my solutions based on the feedback from the recruiters during the interview. This iterative process of thinking critically and adapting was a testament to my preparation and ability to work under pressure.

The Offer

The very next day, I received an email with the offer. I couldn’t believe it! After numerous rejections and a long, arduous journey, I had finally secured a position at Amazon. The feeling of accomplishment was overwhelming, and it felt like all my hard work had finally paid off. Here’s a little glimpse of the email I received: Offer Mail .

Reflections and Advice

This experience taught me some valuable lessons about perseverance and preparation. Here are a few takeaways:

Don’t Give Up: Rejections are a part of the process. Keep applying and don’t lose hope.
Prepare Smartly: Focus on relevant resources, like LeetCode, and tailor your study sessions to the company you’re interviewing with.
Know Your Story: Be ready to discuss your experiences in a way that aligns with the company’s values and principles.
Stay Calm: Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember that the interviewers are also human. A friendly atmosphere can significantly ease your anxiety.

Final Thoughts

To anyone out there on a similar journey, congratulations! Whether you’re just starting or have faced numerous rejections, remember that persistence is key. Keep honing your skills, stay focused, and don’t be afraid to showcase your unique experiences. Your dream job might just be one application away.

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