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How to Get an Internship at Microsoft

Microsoft offers internships in tech and non-tech fields, such as coding, software engineering, data analysis, marketing, and project management. Interns may also join the Microsoft Research team. With 122,000 full-time employees in the US, Microsoft is the world’s largest software maker and offers a range of internship opportunities. Keep reading to learn about the intern experience at Microsoft and how to prepare for an internship application!

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I (Michael) actually got an offer from Microsoft for a software engineer internship position my sophomore year! Keep reading for my advice 🙂

My offer letter email from Microsoft!

Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft Internships

Microsoft’s internship experience is highly competitive. Individuals interested in interning at Microsoft are encouraged to demonstrate leadership and passion for the industry, as well as strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, applicants should have relevant technical skills, since many internships require working with software or programming. In order to prepare for the interview process, it is essential to research the company, understand the products and services offered, and practice problem solving and coding challenges.

• Internship Length: Many Microsoft internships generally take place over the summer, lasting 11-12 weeks.
• Salary: $49.21 / hr.
• Number of Interns: Depending on the location, Microsoft hires anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of interns each year.
• Office Locations: Microsoft internships are located in various US cities, such as Redmond, WA; Charlotte, NC; New York City; Chicago, IL; and San Francisco, CA.
• Application Cycle: Microsoft internships typically begin in June and end in August. The Microsoft internship program usually opens applications around October or November of each year, with interviews taking place in early spring.

What Experience and Qualifications Do I Need?

Microsoft looks for talented, career-oriented individuals with a drive for success, enthusiasm for the company and its products, and the ability to think creatively and solve problems.  Interns should have strong communication and organizational skills, as well as a commitment and willingness to learn. Additionally, applicants should have a strong academic record, demonstrate programming or technical skills, and have experience in a relevant field.

Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be pursuing a degree in a technical field such as computer science, engineering, or mathematics. Relevant experience in programming, coding, and software engineering may also be beneficial. Microsoft looks for individuals who bring strong communication and interpersonal skills to the table and are passionate about technology and its potential to change the world.

What does an Microsoft internship involve?

Microsoft internships involve working with a team of professionals on a wide range of projects that help increase the company’s business value. Interns may participate in software development, research and development (R&D), data engineering, artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud engineering, and more. The day-to-day tasks for an internship at Microsoft can include writing code to develop applications, conducting research projects, problem solving, and more. Additionally, interns are expected to collaborate with others to develop innovative solutions, use their skills to create impactful projects, and stay ahead of the curve by staying up to date on industry trends.

When Do Applications Open?

Microsoft typically opens applications for internships several months before the start of the program. Depending on the program, applications may open in October, November, or December. To learn more about the specific timeline for the program you’re interested in, you can visit Microsoft’s website or connect with an internship program coordinator.

How Can I Apply?

You can apply for an internship through Microsoft’s online job portal. During the process, you will be asked to upload your resume, a letter of recommendation, and portfolio samples. You will also be asked to answer questions about your experience, interests, and goals. Once you’ve submitted your application, you will typically be contacted by a Microsoft recruiter within a few weeks

In order to stand out from other applicants, it is important to craft a compelling application that reflects your qualifications, passions, and interests.  Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the Microsoft workplace culture and be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview process. Interns should keep in mind that the internship is a great way to establish connections with professionals in the industry and gain meaningful experience that can help kickstart a successful career.

What benefits are offered?

Microsoft offers a comprehensive benefits package to interns, which includes competitive salary, medical and dental insurance, and paid holidays and vacation. Additionally, interns can access on-site recreational activities, training sessions and career development opportunities. Microsoft also provides its interns with free access to its Office 365 cloud platform, and a laptop with the software pre-installed. Microsoft also offers additional financial incentives to complete internships successfully.

What to Expect from the Interview

Microsoft interviews are intensive and comprehensive. Typically, interviews are conducted by a panel of three or four individuals, and can include a mix of technical, behavior and case-based questions. It is important to review your resume and portfolio before the interview to make sure you are prepared to answer any questions asked. During the interview, be sure to use specific examples to demonstrate your experience and qualifications. Additionally, remember to be honest and stay professional in your responses

Following the interview, there may be additional assessments or technical exercises conducted. After the  entire process is complete, Microsoft will review all of your materials before making a final decision. The interviewing process for roles will be different depending on the position, but the general tips outlined above will help you to maximize your chances of getting accepted into a Microsoft internship program.  Be sure to research the company and its products, properly prepare for the interview and be patient throughout the application process.

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Looking for tips on how to succeed in your virtual interview? Check out our recent blog post for some helpful advice here!

Types of Positions Microsoft Offers

Microsoft offers internships for both technical and non-technical roles. Internships are available in a range of specialized fields such as data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, software engineering, cyber security, hardware engineering, programming, and business analytics. Additionally, Microsoft offers opportunities in marketing, project management, finance, and design. The types of internships will vary depending on the division and the applicant’s qualifications.

Microsoft internships vary depending on the division and position. Typically, interns are given meaningful tasks and assignments that are similar to those of full-time positions. Depending on the division, interns might engage in research and development, software coding, testing, or data analysis. Interns in marketing or finance positions may also be tasked with creating marketing plans, developing budgets, or managing customer relationships. Design positions involve creating designs for websites, applications, and products.

No matter the division, interns have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals and  learn from them. Internships are a great way to gain professional experience while still in school, and to develop skills that will be useful in any career.

Microsoft Explore

Microsoft also offers a program for students breaking into the tech industry. In their own words:

Explore Microsoft is intended for students who are beginning their academic studies and would like to learn more about careers in software development through an experiential learning program.

The Explore program provides formal training as well as a group project experience working alongside other Explorers. Explorers will experience both core tech disciplines over 12 weeks (Program Manager and Software Engineer), rather than specializing in just one.

This is a great option for underclassmen (freshmen and sophomores) looking to get into software development or program management – for more information, check out their website here.

How to Secure a Return Offer

If you are interested in securing a return offer from Microsoft, it is important to demonstrate initiative and hard work. Microsoft places a high value on self-starters and pro-active team players. Additionally, success in the internship is heavily reliant on the mentor’s recommendation. Therefore, it is important to develop a trusting and open relationship with your mentor and engage in meaningful conversations about your work. By building a strong relationship and performing tasks to the best of your abilities, you can increase your chances of securing a return offer.

A return offer at Microsoft can be an incredible opportunity for students to further enhance their skills and gain professional experience. Working at Microsoft can provide access to cutting-edge technology, empowering mentors, and unparalleled career growth. Microsoft offers competitive salaries, extensive benefits, and the opportunity to work on exciting projects with a global reach. Interns have the incredible opportunity to gain valuable insights from experienced professionals, build a strong professional network, and learn from some of the leading minds in the industry.

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Want to maximize your chances of receiving a return offer after your internship? Here are some tips to help increase your chances!

Get Started With Simplify Today

When it comes to internships, Microsoft is a great place to start a successful career. The Microsoft internship program offers countless opportunities to gain technical and professional experience in a wide range of fields. To secure a return offer from Microsoft, it is important to demonstrate initiative and hard work, build a trusting relationship with your mentor, and take advantage of the resources for professional growth that Microsoft offers. With the right attitude and dedication, an internship at Microsoft can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

With Simplify, you can find the perfect internship that fits your skills, interests, and goals. Simplify simplifies the process of applying, so you can spend more time connecting with mentors, learning, and growing as you take advantage of the unique opportunities Microsoft has to offer. Get started today and take your career to the next level.

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Types, Positions, Pay & How To Apply

When searching for an internship in college, I realized how challenging it is to find an employer who pays well, offers benefits, and provides great work experience to add to a resume.

Microsoft is one of the world’s largest technology companies.

Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

The Microsoft Internship Program is a global initiative.

It allows students to work at Microsoft.

Interns work on real projects, collaborate with experienced employees, and attend workshops and events.

These are designed to help them thrive during their time at Microsoft.

• Does Microsoft Have an Internship Program?
  • Types of Internships Offered by Microsoft
• Microsoft Internship Positions
• What Does an Intern at Microsoft Do?
  • What Does an Intern at Microsoft Usually Focus On?
• Who Does Microsoft Target for Internships?
• What Is a Microsoft Internship Like?
  • Microsoft Internship Process
  • Is It Hard To Intern at Microsoft?
  • What Notable Projects Can Interns Potentially Work On?
  • How Many Hours Do Microsoft Interns Work?
• Microsoft Internship Benefits
  • What Do You Learn in a Computer-Related Internship?
• Are Microsoft Interns Paid?
  • How Much Are Microsoft Interns Paid?
• Requirements for Getting an Internship at Microsoft
  • Microsoft Internship Acceptance Rate
  • Suggested Areas of Study for Microsoft Interns
  • Does Microsoft Care About GPA?
  • Recommended Skills for Microsoft Interns
  • Does Microsoft Background Check Their Interns?
  • Does Microsoft Drug Test Their Interns?
• Do Microsoft Interns Get Hired?
  • How Likely Will an Internship at Microsoft Turn Into a Full-time Job?
• How Do I Get an Internship At Microsoft?
  • Where To Find Microsoft Internship Opportunities
  • Interview for a Microsoft Internship
  • How Do I Prepare for a Microsoft Internship?
• Is Microsoft a Good Internship?
  • Is an Internship at Microsoft Worth It?
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • Does Microsoft hire international students?
  • Does Microsoft require a cover letter?
• Wrapping Up

Does Microsoft Have an Internship Program?

Microsoft does have an internship program.

The program is competitive.

The interns are college students pursuing degrees in computer science or related fields.

The program is an excellent way to gain experience in the tech industry.

You will also learn from some of the best minds in the business.

Types of Internships Offered by Microsoft

Microsoft offers students several internship opportunities, including engineering and commercial internships.

Student internships are for 12 weeks. Commercial internships are for 12 weeks and are open to all majors.

Microsoft Internship Positions

An intern for Microsoft could work in several departments depending on their skills and interests.

These departments include but are not limited to engineering, marketing, human resources, and finance.

Each department offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow while contributing to the company’s success.

No matter what department an intern works in, they will have valuable experience.

Some of the specific internships that are offered include:

• Software Engineer Intern: As a software engineer intern at Microsoft, you will work on a team of engineers to design, develop, and test new software products.
• Marketing Intern: As a marketing intern at Microsoft, you will work with the marketing team to develop and implement marketing campaigns.
• Sales Intern: As a sales intern at Microsoft, you will work with the sales team to generate leads and close deals.

What Does an Intern at Microsoft Do?

An intern will work with other interns and full-time employees on various projects.

They will also learn about the company’s inner workings and how it functions.

Additionally, interns will gain valuable experience helpful in their future careers.

What Does an Intern at Microsoft Usually Focus On?

An intern at Microsoft can expect to handle various tasks and responsibilities.

People know the company for its cutting-edge technology.

Interns will gain valuable experience working with various new software and hardware.

Who Does Microsoft Target for Internships?

Microsoft internship programs are geared toward first and second-year college students.

Internships offer students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in their chosen field.

They will also learn about a major corporation’s culture and inner workings.

What Is a Microsoft Internship Like?

A Microsoft internship is a great way to experience working in the tech industry.

You’ll work with some of the field’s most talented and experienced professionals.

You’ll also have the opportunity to learn new skills and technologies.

Also, you’ll get free accommodation and lunch, and they will treat you well.

Microsoft Internship Process

The Microsoft internship is a great way to learn what it’s like to work at a top tech company.

The process starts with submitting your CV.

You’ll then fill out a form with your education details.

You’ll then take an online scenario/personality assessment.

Finally, you’ll have a video interview.

Then, if you’re successful, you’ll get a face-to-face interview.

Is It Hard To Intern at Microsoft?

The Microsoft internship program is competitive, and many people apply yearly.

Unfortunately, Microsoft only selects 400-600 of them.

Interns work hard and complete challenging projects.

They are also allowed to learn from some of the most talented people in the tech industry.

What Notable Projects Can Interns Potentially Work On?

Interns at Microsoft have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects.

These projects include developing new software to testing products before they release them.

The exact nature of an intern’s project will depend on their skills and interests.

However, all interns will gain valuable experience helpful in their future careers.

How Many Hours Do Microsoft Interns Work?

Interns at Microsoft work 40 hours per week.

But, some may work more during peak times or if their project requires it.

Interns also need to complete a project by the end of their internship.

Thus, completing a project may require extra hours beyond the regular 40.

Microsoft Internship Benefits

Interning at Microsoft has a lot of benefits:

1. You get to work with some of the most talented people in the world.
2. You get to learn new technologies and how to use them.
3. You get to work on real projects that impact people’s lives.
4. You get to network with other interns and potential employers.

All these benefits make interning at Microsoft a great experience.

What Do You Learn in a Computer-Related Internship?

Working as a computer intern, you learn a range of essential skills.

For example, you may learn how to code in different languages.

You’ll also learn to set up networks and troubleshoot hardware and software problems.

Besides, you will gain valuable experience working with others in a professional setting.

Are Microsoft Interns Paid?

Yes, Microsoft offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its interns.

Also, Microsoft allows its interns to work on real projects.

They work on projects essential to the company’s success.

So if you’re considering an internship at Microsoft, know they will pay you for your work.

How Much Are Microsoft Interns Paid?

Microsoft is one of the most sought-after employers for interns.

They also pay their interns well.

According to Glassdoor, the average Microsoft intern makes $7,100 per month.

This is more than the national average for intern pay.

So if you’re lucky enough to land a Microsoft internship, you can expect to be very well compensated.

Requirements for Getting an Internship at Microsoft

There are a few requirements if you’re interested in interning at Microsoft.

First, you must be enrolled full-time as a student in a relevant field.

Additionally, you’ll need to be returning to university/college.

This could be for at least a term, semester, or quarter following your internship period.

Meeting these requirements will ensure you enjoy your experience at Microsoft.

Microsoft Internship Acceptance Rate

Thousands of students from all over the globe apply for a spot in the program every year.

Unfortunately, they accept only a tiny fraction of applicants.

The acceptance rate has hovered around 1-2% in recent years.

Suggested Areas of Study for Microsoft Interns

Microsoft interns’ most common areas of study are:

• Computer science
• Software engineering
• Computer engineering
• Any related technical major

An internship program allows students to learn about the company.

It also helps them gain practical experience in their field of study.

Does Microsoft Care About GPA?

While Microsoft doesn’t have a formal rule, they expect intern candidates to have a solid academic record.

Therefore, if your GPA is lower, you should have other impressive qualifications.

Qualifications such as relevant work experience or extracurriculars.

They may still consider you for the role.

It is important to put your best foot forward.

You should also highlight why you would be an excellent fit for the Microsoft team.

Recommended Skills for Microsoft Interns

Specific skills would be beneficial for interns applying for a Microsoft internship:

1. Having previous experience working with Microsoft products would be helpful.
2. Being able to code in various programming languages would be an asset. Having experience working with databases is also an asset.
3. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential. This is because internships often involve working on teams.

Does Microsoft Background Check Their Interns?

Microsoft does perform background checks on its interns.

This ensures that the company hires quality candidates.

Candidates that will reflect well on the company name.

Also, this ensures Microsoft only hires quality candidates to represent the company well.

Does Microsoft Drug Test Their Interns?

Microsoft does not drug test their interns.

The company doesn’t want to discourage potential applicants from applying.

Instead, Microsoft focuses on finding talented individuals who fit their company culture well.

Do Microsoft Interns Get Hired?

The internship is a great way to get your foot in the door at one of the world’s most prestigious companies.

You will gain valuable experience and skills.

You’ll also have the opportunity to network with some of the most talented people in the industry.

And best of all, Microsoft offers full-time jobs to 85 percent of the interns.

How Likely Will an Internship at Microsoft Turn Into a Full-time Job?

85% of interns who complete a Microsoft internship receive a job offer from the company.

This high success rate is partly because Microsoft screens its interns.

They select only the most qualified candidates.

Besides, the company provides its interns with comprehensive training.

They also give them exposure to various real-world work scenarios.

How Do I Get an Internship At Microsoft?

A solid academic record is the best way to get an internship at Microsoft.

So you should also involve yourself in extracurricular activities.

The activities should show your interest in computer science or engineering.

It’s also helpful to have relevant work experience, even if it’s a summer job or an internship at another company.

Where To Find Microsoft Internship Opportunities

There are a few main places to look for Microsoft internship opportunities.

• The first is the Microsoft website itself. You can search for internships by location, keyword, or category.
• Also, look on internship-specific websites like Internships. com and WayUp.
  These websites allow you to filter internship postings by keyword, company, etc.
• Finally, don’t forget to check with your school’s career center.
  They may have partnered with Microsoft in the past. They may also have exclusive internship opportunities available.

Interview for a Microsoft Internship

Ensure you’re yourself during the interview.

Demonstrating your thinking and curiosity is also essential when interviewing.

Microsoft conducts both video and face-to-face interviews, so prepare yourself for both.

It’s also a good idea to do your research and know their core competencies.

What Should I Wear to a Microsoft Internship Interview?

Microsoft recommends wearing whatever makes you comfortable.

That said, it’s still important to dress well.

Dress in a way that projects professionalism and confidence.

Aim to look polished and put-together, but don’t be afraid to express your style.

How To Answer “Why Do You Want To Work at Microsoft?”

Interviewers will ask why you want to work at their company.

This is because they want to gauge how well you fit with their corporate culture.

To answer this question, do your research on the company beforehand.

Articulate how Microsoft’s values align with your own.

How Do I Prepare for a Microsoft Internship?

If you’re hoping to land a Microsoft internship, the best thing you can do is to prepare in advance.

• Start by brushing up on your computer skills.
• Also, familiarize yourself with Microsoft’s various products and services.
• Next, research the company and its internship program.
  Be sure to have a few questions prepared for your interview.
• Finally, ensure your resume is up to date.
  The resume should highlight your relevant skills and experience.

Is Microsoft a Good Internship?

Microsoft is a good internship for students who are interested in computer science.

The company provides excellent training and mentorship. Interns can learn a lot about the industry.

But Microsoft is also very competitive.

As a result, interns may find themselves working long hours.

Thus, students should prepare for a challenging work schedule before applying.

Is an Internship at Microsoft Worth It?

An internship at Microsoft is a great way to gain valuable experience in the tech industry.

You will work with some of the most talented engineers in the world.

You’ll also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Also, Microsoft internships offer competitive salaries and benefits.

This makes it a worthwhile investment for your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most asked questions about the Microsoft internship.

Does Microsoft hire international students?

Yes, Microsoft does hire international students for its internship program.

But, there are a few things to remember.

First, you must have a valid work visa for the country where the internship will take place.

Additionally, you should be enrolled in a full-time degree program.

You should also be able to complete the internship during your academic break.

Does Microsoft require a cover letter?

Microsoft does not need a cover letter for internship applications.

But it is better to include one. In your cover letter, you can highlight your skills and experience.

What makes you a good fit for the Microsoft Internship Program?

Crafting a well-written cover letter will increase your chances of getting an interview.

Wrapping Up

Microsoft is great if you’re looking for an internship with a world-renowned company.

You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities.

You will also interact with some of the most talented interns in the world.

You’ll also gain invaluable experience that will help set you up for success in your career.

Remember that it’s competitive to get into Microsoft internships.

So follow the steps outlined in this article to give yourself the best chance possible.

Want to learn more about interning at companies like Microsoft?

Click here!

90,000 Top 25 companies where interns earn the highest salaries. Jobs for students

Many associate an internship with a sea of ​​paperwork and very low pay. But there are companies that not only provide an opportunity to gain valuable experience, but also do not skimp on high salaries for novice employees.

Interns earn over $4,500 a month at the top 25 job search sites, Glassdoor, according to a new report. If you add up the entire salary of an intern for a year, you will come out with more than $53,000, which is more than the annual salary of the average American worker. “Interns are doing real work by real deadlines and dealing with very high expectations,” Scott Dobrisky, Glassdoor community expert, said in an interview. “But they are being hired at a rate that is much higher than the average US worker.”

1. Facebook (average salary for an intern is $8,000).
The first place in the rating is rightfully taken by Facebook. According to survey data obtained by Glassdoor, Facebook currently has an average salary of $8,000 per month for interns. That’s $1,800 more than the former leader of the ranking based on the 2014 Glassdoor Internship Report ($6,200).

2. Microsoft (average intern salary is $7,100).
For software developers currently majoring in technical sciences (such as computer science, electrical engineering, or computer engineering), Microsoft may offer a 12-week summer internship program. It is designed specifically for freshmen and sophomores and offers experience in rotation with amazing mentors.

3. Exxon Mobil (average intern salary is $6,507)
Every intern has a chance to get a taste of the typical starting position at Exxon Mobil. Internships at Exxon Mobil vary greatly in length and content, with topics covering just about every aspect of engineering and economics work: process modeling, safety research, monitoring software, economic research, etc. The focus is on professional development, management takes it very seriously to the interests of the trainees.

4. Salesforce (average intern salary is $6,450).
Salesforce interns are always working on real projects that impact the business. This gives them the opportunity to have a tangible impact on the future of the company. The ability to collaborate and connect with other Salesforce professionals on a global level provides valuable start-up experience and a sense of being part of a team.

5. Amazon (average intern salary is $6,400).
Amazon internships are a great way to learn about working at the company and gain hands-on experience across disciplines. Interns have extensive opportunities to work on the complex issues that affect millions of Amazon customers.

6. Apple ($6400).
At Apple, interns are always an important part of the team. Even a summer internship or collaboration with the company during the school year gives you the opportunity to work on critical Apple projects both in the US and around the world.

7. Bloomberg L.P. ($6400).
Through workshops with Bloomberg business leaders, as well as cultural and philanthropic events, trainees experience the company’s culture over the summer. Someone who excels at an internship may be offered an interview and a full-time job.

8. Yelp ($6400).
Yelp recruits approximately 150 interns each year for three months to join the company’s approximately 400 engineering team. Interns work as software developers, product managers, or designers. Everything is organized as a series of small startups, rather than as a global company, which allows you to take responsibility for the work.

9. Yahoo ($6080).
Summer at Yahoo is the best way to experience what life at Yahoo will look like. Yahoo is currently looking for interns for the following positions: Office of Inclusive Diversity, Robotics, Social Media, BHRP Legal and Media Entertainment.

10. VMware ($6080).
Interns at VMware create innovative solutions and overcome complex problems themselves. They reveal their potential and get acquainted with the valuable latest achievements of industry leaders.

The top ten leaders in the ranking are followed by companies:

11. Google ($6000),
12. NVIDIA ($5770),
13. Intuit ($5440),
14. Juniper Networks ($5440), 9000 7 15. Workday ( $5440),
16. BlackRock ($5400),
17. Adobe ($5120),
18. MathWorks ($5120),
19. Qualcomm ($5040),
20. Capital One ($5000),
21. Chevron ($5000),
22. Accenture ($4960),
23. Deutsche Bank ($4640),
24. AIG ($4616),
25. Bank of America ($4570).

Among the participants in the ranking, companies that are heavily oriented towards technology continue to lead: 16 of the top 25 are IT companies, along with financial, oil and gas and consulting companies. In all IT companies, except for three, the average salary has increased, sometimes significantly (by 7-10% or more).
“We see and hear from employers that interns are being treated more like permanent or hired employees. This is a push to increase their wages,” said Scott Dobrisky, an expert in the Glassdoor community. “Don’t count on a nanny anymore. The internship is designed to give you real experience.”

My experience of internship at Microsoft Redmond and getting an offer / Sudo Null IT News

dev.by.

Andrey Artemiev is a Software Development Engineer at the US office of Microsoft in Seattle, working on the Windows operating system. His path to the company took 7 years, behind him – five resume submissions, one failed interview and a summer internship at Microsoft Redmond. Andrey shares his experience with dev.by readers.

Getting into Microsoft is hard enough, as hiring the wrong person can cost the company dearly. This includes not only relocation costs, but also potential damage to the company from employee errors that lead to unpleasant consequences, whether it is the theft of presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s letter by Russian hackers, the spread of the Petya ransomware virus, the downing of the patient database server in a Japanese hospital or disruption of the contract for $19million with a laptop manufacturer.

Microsoft annually receives about 2 million resumes, so any doubt in the candidate entails a refusal. Failure during the final interview means that the next attempt will be only in 6 months, but in fact – only in a year. My experience is that in the long run, persistence wins, not talent.

It all started in December 2008, when I, a third-year student at BSUIR (Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics), came to a lecture on MS HPC Server 2008, organized in Minsk by Microsoft employee Vsevolod Ukrainskiy. During the lecture, he mentioned summer internships for students at the company’s head office in the US.

It was mind-boggling, my life had purpose and meaning – I have to go to Microsoft. I immediately sent my resume (you need to submit it here), and although I didn’t receive an answer, I didn’t get upset: already at that moment I realized that all great achievements require preparation.

Since January, I have completely immersed myself in the process of collecting information and preparing. I found the blog of Sergey Grebnov from Ivanovo (Russia), who had just returned from a summer internship at Microsoft from the USA, and asked me to talk more about this experience, so he had a series of posts about the interview process and interview tasks. In the course of how the content of the interview was clarified, the work began to boil, and I regretted that there were only 24 hours in a day. My classmates didn’t understand this.

Your resume needs to get noticed first. If you have passed this stage, in September-October a 30-minute telephone interview in English awaits you, which will screen out those who definitely will not pass the final interview with the Americans in the European office. In the second round, there will be four to five interviews of forty-five minutes each, during which you will be presented with algorithmic problems, asked how you are going to test your solution, and look at your code and problem-solving approaches. Sergey Grebnov was the winner of programming competitions, the finalist of Microsoft Imagine Cup 2008, but he did not pass the first time either.

I don’t put into the word “preparation” the meaning that is given to it at the university – to memorize it in a couple of days, write spurs, sell it to the teacher, cheat. If you have been warned to ask for feedback from the interviewer during an interview, then you need to be genuinely interested in how you can improve yourself, and not just perform a ritual.

From the behavior of the interviewers, you should understand who they are looking for and make yourself that way. To prepare is to develop skills and habits in yourself, for the sake of demonstrating which you do not have to strain your memory. Perhaps it will take six months, perhaps several years. A boxer in the ring does not remember how to block, and does not think where to dodge – these skills have been worked out. On the day of the interview, everything must go flawlessly, all questions must be answered and all tasks solved, only in this way will you get into the “big league”.

I learned English by reading technical literature, watching Futurama, The Simpsons, South Park cartoons. I reviewed many series forty times, wrote down new words with translation and transcription in a notebook and stupidly reread when I was riding in public transport. Foreign language courses, in my opinion, are useless: this is how I learned German, and it seemed to me that their goal was not to teach, but to earn money.

The phone interview was simple: I was asked something about Linked Lists and work experience. In an interview, not only the company gets to know you, but you also get to know them, so it is very important to prepare questions. I asked the person on the other end what they are working on, how often overtime happens, how good is the balance between work and personal life, what are the plans for interns, etc. Lack of interest in the future workplace can play against the candidate. After a while, I found out that the first stage was passed and soon they would contact me again.

Rainy autumn in Minsk has turned into winter cold. In mid-February 2010, I received a letter inviting me to come to Munich for an interview at the company’s campus. 4 interviews of 45 minutes were waiting for me, Microsoft paid all the expenses. Less than a month remained before the appointed day, and I did not have a visa. I had to run around, because in order to obtain a German (non-Schengen) visa, an extract from the land registry about Microsoft Deutschland Gmbh was needed.

In general, the hiring process at Microsoft is rather lax, and I’m not the only one who thinks so. Sometimes recruiters forget to send documents or send the wrong ones, or without a signature, or simply leave candidates little time to collect documents. There is an opinion that this is done on purpose to weed out candidates, but maybe the personnel department simply cannot cope with the huge flow of candidates. So do not relax, track the whole process yourself and do not be afraid to write to them.

Microsoft very often conducts interviews in the EU offices, where a team of recruiters from the US comes. Grebnov had it in Warsaw, I had it in Munich. Sometimes similar events are held in Russia, once the hiring event was at BSU (Belarusian State University). An interview in a foreign country is bad because you need to adapt to a new environment, an unfamiliar public transport system, this adds risks. I arrived an hour before the interview started and was just walking around. Then the four of us with other candidates gathered in the hall, and one by one different interviewers began to invite us to their place.

“The most stupid mistake is to start writing code without specifying all the details”

At the first interview, I was asked about my work experience, then they gave me a sheet on which the C ++ class CString was implemented, the task was to find all the problems. Since I read Effective C++ and More Effective C++, I did well.

The next task was harder: to implement the bool IsMatch(char* pszText, char* pszPattern) function. A string is passed as a pattern, which may contain * denoting 0 or more characters. I didn’t solve this problem. When you decide, think of these options: “Abcde”, “A*c**d*ek”.

The second interview was an assignment to implement a function that reverses all the words in a string. For example, “Hello, Microsoft Deutschland!” – “Deutchsland Microsoft Hello”. The task may seem simple, but in fact it is not. The most stupid mistake in an interview is to start writing code without specifying all the details. To select a solution, it is necessary to have accurate data that should be taken from the interviewer. It is necessary to clarify what to do with punctuation marks, whether Unicode support is needed, because there are characters consisting of several (for example, emoticons with different skin colors), how large the file is, what are the time / memory limits. It is also necessary to explain the choice of algorithm and the choice of data structure. At the end of the interview, I was asked how I would test this code, I answered badly, and that was it for me.

I returned to Minsk with the firm intention to prepare better next time. At the university, I didn’t say anything to anyone, even the headman didn’t know why I was absent. I immediately sent scans of receipts for food and public transportation to Microsoft, and FedEx sent back a check for $ 215, which I had to pay income tax. Accommodation and flights have already been paid by the company.

In autumn I submitted my CV again, but I missed it. According to the requirements of the J-1 visa (a student visa required for an internship in the United States), at the time of the end of the internship, you must be a university student, and I already graduated from the university in 2011.

I had a plan B in case I failed, so I kept working. From time to time he solved problems and played situations from the interview in his head. The preparation process went into the background: I read books on programming, but the former fuse was gone. Germany did not give me peace, so I sent the documents to the master’s program in computer science at the Technical University of Munich. They didn’t take it.

Preparations continued, sometimes I solved problems and tested the code. In the fall, I again applied to three different universities, and this time received positive answers from all at once. The Technical University of Munich was at the top of the list (37th in the world), so I chose it. So in April 2012 I became a student at a German university. Later, I became disillusioned with him.

“It’s dark outside, I’m standing with a marker in front of a paper board and implementing the Minesweeper game in C++”

At the end of August, already from Munich, I again applied for an internship at Microsoft, and I was invited to the first stage. It took place at my university. I arrived 20 minutes before the start, several people were sitting under the door. One of them turned out to be a recruiter, and we talked for about 15 minutes: I asked questions about the company that I had prepared in advance.

In an interview, I had to write a C# console application on the whiteboard that would count the number of characters in a file and print them in descending order. As you do, think about Unicode compound characters, formatting characters, and invisible characters (space), and what counts as the same characters, because in some languages ​​they may look different but mean the same thing. During such interviews, specialists who do not reach the minimum level are eliminated. The interviewer evaluates how I write code, how I reason, how I approach solving a problem. About a week later I was notified that I had passed the first stage.

In February 2013, I was invited to Zurich for an on-campus interview with several dates to choose from. In mid-March, two guys from Poland, an Indian studying in Switzerland, and myself gathered in the Microsoft Zurich lobby. Everything was the same as in 2010 – four interviews of 45 minutes each.

In the first interview, a Microsoft manager asked me to write some LinkedList algorithms, one of which was finding a ring in a SingleLinked List. I don’t remember other technical issues, but Linked Lists are used everywhere in the operating system, so you need to know them well. Then the interviewer asked if I had any questions for him. I asked everyone questions about the internship, about the team and the working environment – it was interesting to me.

The second interview was with a Russian Microsoft employee. I don’t remember what we did, but at the end he gave me 7 minutes to implement the algorithm in C#. I immediately turned on the stopwatch on my watch (thus frustrating his intention) and thus was able to focus on solving the problem. As a result, everything was written on time. The interlocutor asked me if I want to work with Windows Phone or SQL Server. I remember returning from this interview to the conference room, I saw an Indian guy with things near the elevator – the rest of the guys were still at the interviews.

I did not immediately find a common language with the third interviewer. It was necessary to organize the sorting of cards. First, I figured out how best to represent the maps in memory, as a result, the task was reduced to rearranging the elements in the array. Then the recruiter added a condition that the cards should never be left in place. I have implemented the algorithm in C++. Before writing the code, I clarified whether a standard pseudo-random number generator can be used.

The fourth interview. It is dark outside the window, I stand with a marker in front of a paper board and implement the Minesweeper game in C ++. Along the way, the recruiter asks how much the array of pointers to pointers takes and how it is possible to repeat the for loop again, how I will implement the game if the field is huge, say, a million by a million.

As a result, there are two of us left, we are waiting for the final decision. A recruiter from America sits in front of us with a laptop, she asks who wants to know their result first. I volunteer, we go into another room, sit down, the recruiter thanks me for my attention to Microsoft internships, expresses hope that the experience was useful to me, and the joy that I will join the company in the summer of 2013.

That guy passed too. We went outside at 18:30 and went to the hotel, where we celebrated the victory with two mugs of beer.

“I received a letter from the embassy that the processing of my documents is being delayed because I fell under Additional Processing”

The internship was supposed to start on June 7, 2013. I returned to Germany and began to collect documents for a J1 visa. There was no time for studying, she was sick of her. I prepared the documents very quickly, because all the necessary translations and notarizations were made when I entered the German university.

On the website of the embassy, ​​you had to pass a test with stupid questions, such as: are you a member of a terrorist organization, do you intend to bring drugs to the USA, etc. You need to approach them very seriously and in no case be joking, otherwise wrapped. When you go to the American embassy, ​​it is better not to take electronics with you, because there will be nowhere to store them. Someone buries their tablets and smart watches in a flower bed, someone gives them to scammers and never sees them again, but I went to the store and left my things in the storage room.

About a week later I received a response from the embassy that the processing of my documents was being delayed because I was under Additional Processing. This is the procedure that many programmers, physicists, and explosives specialists go through when they first apply for a US visa. Thus, the consideration of my documents was delayed for a longer period than planned.

I wrote to Microsoft and they told me that the only thing left to do is to wait. Every day I went to the mailbox, but it was empty. The time of my internship was constantly postponed, I “scored” completely, although the exams were approaching. At that time I was renting an attic from a German family near the university, but they were preparing to move to another place. I remember that there were no more things in the house except mine, the lease was coming to an end and a decision had to be made. One hot Munich day, I saw a heavy envelope in the drawer, and in it was a passport with a visa and a bunch of papers. Microsoft immediately bought me tickets and I flew away. Thus, the internship at Redmond began with a delay of a month.

“Microsoft interns usually get a job offer unless they do something stupid”

During my internship, Microsoft provided me with a car and a discount on rent. The interns had enough time to not only work, but also to travel.

Microsoft intern workplace

I worked on Windows Phone 8.1, added some API to it (I don’t remember which one). First, it was necessary to understand the project, then draw up a design document, discuss it with other employees, get their approval, then implement and test it. At the end of the 12 week internship, I presented my project to the team and received a job offer. Most interns only get this offer if they don’t do something stupid.

I received an invitation to work at Microsoft in early September, but I was not issued a blue employee card until two years later.

I traveled around America and returned to Minsk while I was applying for a work visa. This is a very long process. In the US, the number of foreign labor force is subject to quotas, in recent years the number of applicants has exceeded the number of quotas, so they are drawn according to the lottery principle.

Outside the window is 2014, I live with my parents, I am waiting for a visa. If everything goes well, then in the autumn I will go to the USA, so I don’t have to look for a job. But in April it became clear that this year I am not getting a visa and I am not going to the States, instead there is an option to work in the Vancouver office, a three-hour drive from Seattle: after a year of work in Canada on an L1 visa, I will be transferred to Redmond. However, this option did not work either. As a result, in the fall, I went for an interview at Softeq. My experience at Microsoft and my fluency in English gave me a distinct advantage when applying for a job.

The spring of 2015 crept up unnoticed, in April my documents for a work visa were finally approved. The interview at the US Embassy in Moscow was very short: they only asked me where I would work and what salary, they took my passport and returned it the same day with a visa. All foreign employees start working from October, when the new fiscal year starts. Therefore, my first working day took place on October 5, 2015.

References from Andrey Artemyev :

Literature for “physicists” to help prepare for technical interviews. Reading from cover to cover is not necessary, I recommend studying algorithms with a pencil in hand.

Interviews for next year will begin in the fall – get ready and submit your resume. If it doesn’t work, draw conclusions and try again.

• Thomas Kormen. Algorithms and data structures;
• Boris Kordemsky. Mathematical savvy;
• Alexander Shen. Programming. Theorems and problems;
• William Pandstone. How to move Mount Fuji.
• Collection of programming problems and solutions to them on topcoder.