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Is it difficult to score a job at Google or Microsoft as a computer science major?

I was wondering if it is the type of field where you start low and rise up in the ranks or a more static position once you are in. #computer-science #google #microsoft

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Dhairya’s Answer

Hi Christopher,
Great question. Short answer is it depends. Microsoft and Google are very competitive when it comes to hiring software engineers. However, as a a student there are several avenues to getting in companies like those two and other high tech companies (e.g. Amazon, Palantir, Dropbox, etc).

The first is internships. Internships usually offer the best direct route for students to a full-time position. Most companies also have specific programs for graduating students to get entry level positions. These programs will offer you the ability to rotate through different groups at a company and get diverse experience before you commit to working a particular group. They also have mentoring built in. Look to apply for those types of programs.

In terms of progressing in a company. It used to be that you'd hear stories of people starting as help-desk technicians and rising to engineers and other more senior positions. Those opportunities may still exist, but they do take very long. If you feel confident to be an software engineer apply to to be software engineer. Large companies will have defined career paths (e.g. junior SE-> software engineer -> SE II -> SE III -> principal SE). Those programs have specific milestones and its up to your manager to promote you up the ranks. Alternatively, you can join a smaller startup or company and grow and gain experience quickly. You'll often see employee 3 who is a SE at a startup become a manager or director of SE by the time the company grows to 20/30 employees within the span of 2-3 years.
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Donald’s Answer

As a Microsoft employee, I can confidently say that your major will put you ahead of the crowd when applying for large tech companies like Microsoft or Google. Many of the employees I work with on the floor are either currently completing computer science degrees, or have already graduated. Also, a Business major is a sure bet as well if you are looking for a general degree that can be applicable, even in a larger scale tech company.
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Sanjeev’s Answer

In simple terms, your path to growth is directly linked with how well your passion aligns with the needs of the company. If these two elements are in sync, your growth will be rapid. However, if there's a mismatch, it might slow down your progress.

Remember, climbing the corporate ladder may seem quicker when you're at the lower rungs, but as you gain more experience and find yourself competing with others for leadership roles, the pace might slow down. But don't be disheartened. This isn't a sign of stagnation, but rather a reflection of your growing maturity and the complexity of the roles you're aiming for. So, keep pushing forward, your growth is on the horizon!
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Amey’s Answer

The knowledge you gain while studying computer science is the key to get job at any elite technology company. To gain knowledge you have to ask questions at whatever you study? If you don't there won't be any points to differentiate you from your fellow classmates in computer science. Try developing a habit of self learning from online sources. Ask questions to your professors if you don't understand anything. Learn to code, you will learn basic stuff in you major but you have to maximize on this skill by working on it in your free time.


To answer your second question, it depends on what you want. You can rise up in ranks but usually it takes time in big companies like google and microsoft. At every rank the kind of work you do will be different. At google the top rank in terms of engineering consists of very smart people. You cannot compare rank of engineer by a manager? They closely relate but the kind of work is different.

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Ankita’s Answer

Getting a job at Google or Microsoft as a computer science major can be challenging, but it's definitely possible with the right preparation and skills. Here's a simple breakdown:

Difficulty
1. Competitive: Many people want to work at these companies, so the competition is tough.
2. Skills and Preparation: You need strong technical skills, a good understanding of computer science fundamentals, and the ability to solve complex problems.

Getting Hired
1. Strong Resume: A good mix of education, internships, and relevant projects helps.
2. Networking: Knowing someone at the company or having a good LinkedIn profile can help you get noticed.
3. Interviews: You'll go through several rounds of interviews, including coding tests, technical questions, and problem-solving scenarios.

Career Path
1. Start Low, Rise Up: Many people start in entry-level positions and move up. Promotions and advancements are based on your performance and contributions.
2. Growth Opportunities: Both companies offer numerous opportunities to learn new skills, take on new projects, and advance your career.
3. Static Positions: Some roles might be more static, but there are often chances to shift to different projects or teams if you want to grow.

Summary
- Is it difficult? Yes, but with strong skills and preparation, you can get hired.
- Career growth: There's plenty of room to grow and move up the ranks based on your performance.
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