Recap: ColorStackVT x WiCyS Google Recruiter Event

Hi everyone, this is Nakyah 👋🏾!

We had an insightful session with a Google Technical recruiter, covering job search strategies, technical interviews, and how to stand out in cybersecurity and software engineering roles. Breaking into tech can be tough, especially landing that first job, but once you get in, your experience will speak for itself!

If you’re aiming for Google or other top tech companies, here’s what you need to know:

Landing a Job in Security & Software Engineering

🔹 The hardest part is getting that first role. Companies view early-career hires as a risk, so your job is to convince them why you’re the best fit.

🔹 It’s harder until it’s not. Once you have a few years of experience, your track record speaks for itself.

🔹 Apply strategically. Look for early-career roles, internships, and apprenticeships, not senior/staff positions.

Job Applications: How to Beat the System

📌 Tailor your resume for each role. Slight tweaks to highlight the minimum qualifications can help you pass recruiter screening.

📌 Google does NOT use AI to reject applications. Instead, a human recruiter ensures you meet the job qualifications before forwarding your resume.

📌 Avoid generic applications. If your resume doesn’t clearly match the job description, you’ll get rejected before reaching a hiring manager.

📌 Find a recruiter or hiring manager on LinkedIn. After applying, message them with the job link and express your interest.

How to Stand Out in Technical Interviews

✅ Know the must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. Technical skills are non-negotiable, but strong communication, enthusiasm, and teamwork set you apart.

✅ Overcommunicate in your interviews. Companies don’t just want coders; they want engineers who can collaborate and explain their thought process.

✅ Ask clarifying questions. Many interview questions are intentionally vague—the interviewer wants to see if you ask the right questions before solving the problem.

✅ Don’t dive in too fast. Take a moment, outline your plan, and confirm your approach before coding.

✅ Passion matters. If you’re excited about the company and role, that enthusiasm gives you an edge over equally skilled candidates.

GPA vs. Projects & Experience: What Matters More?

📊 Early in your career (0-3 years), GPA may be considered, but projects and experience carry more weight.
🔹 If you have a lower GPA, strong projects, internships, and GitHub contributions can make up for it.
🔹 You’re competing with candidates who have strong GPAs AND solid projects—so make sure your skills and experience are undeniable.

 Google’s Hiring Process for Interns & Full-Time Roles

📌 Step 1: Online assessment – Required for most internships & entry-level roles.
📌 Step 2: Technical phone screen – A first-round coding interview.
📌 Step 3: Final interview round –

• Software Engineers: 3 coding interviews + 1 behavioral interview.

• Security Engineers: 5 interviews (2 domain knowledge, 2 role-related knowledge, 1 behavioral).
  📌 Step 4: Team Matching Process – Even after passing the interview, teams must select you for a role.

📢 Pro Tip: Internships are the best way to get a full-time job at Google. Interns who receive positive feedback can be converted to full-time without re-interviewing..

Hiring Timelines & Where to Apply

🔗 Google’s Student Careers Page: Google.com/students
📅 Apply early. Google fills many roles on a rolling basis, so the sooner you apply, the better your chances.
🚀 Apprenticeships = Paid training and can convert into full-time roles!

📢 Next Steps & Resources

• Join ColorStackVT’s Slack to stay updated on opportunities.

• Follow up with recruiters & hiring managers on LinkedIn.

• Check out Google’s student programs for upcoming deadlines.

💡 Have more questions? Feel free to reach out!

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