How did you prepare for your internship interview?
Like most students, I practiced common interview questions for tech roles, especially focusing on system design and problem-solving, which I identified as crucial skills from the job description. I also reached out to the Talent Acquisition team with questions on how I could best prepare for the interview. I was advised to focus on foundational topics, so I refreshed my knowledge on Digital Logic Design.
Thinking back on your internship, what did you enjoy most at Arm, and what skills have you developed?
What I enjoyed most was the collaborative culture and the people I worked with. The team was very inclusive and supportive, offering a welcoming environment for learning. Additionally, Arm encourages curiosity and provides opportunity for hands-on experience. I saw in real-time how experienced colleagues worked and solved problems and I had the chance to work on and contribute to projects that had real-world applications. These experiences enhanced my sense of satisfaction in the work I did, even as an intern.
On placement I developed both competency and technical skills that I am still working on. In the beginning, I struggled to adapt to the fast-paced nature of my new work environment – it was overwhelming at times. However, I had mentors around me who helped me improve my time management and project planning skills. I learned to utilize organizational tools, and these enhanced my ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and spend more time learning the actual technology while getting work done effectively. These experiences have taught me the importance of developing communication skills –especially in the aspect of asking questions and asking for help on time.
You mentioned INROADS, in what ways did they support you?
INROADS was instrumental throughout. They provided critical guidance and support at every stage. They organized resume workshops for example. These helped me understand how I can leverage a resume to highlight my skills and experiences. They also helped with the interview process, supporting me with example questions that helped enhance my interview skills. Additionally, INROADS arranged regular check-ins and mentoring sessions during the internship. These helped me navigate the challenges of working in a professional environment and setting personal and career goals.
What advice would you give future applicants?
Three things:
- For those considering applying, my advice would be to take the initiative and genuinely engage with people at Arm. They will take the time to help you understand the company culture and Arm’s impact on the industry.
- For those lucky enough to progress to the interview stages, take the time to (a) demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the work Arm does (b) come prepared to discuss not only your technical skills but also how you can contribute to innovation and problem-solving within the company.
- Finally, be intentional about building your network and seek out mentorship. These relationships will be invaluable not just for navigating the application process but also for your career development. Take charge of your life and what you want for yourself.