? How I got into Facebook AI + Tips how you can do it as well

Introduction

It's been a while since my last video, and I thought it would be a good time to share my experiences and insights about how I got into Facebook AI. I've been asked this question many times, and my journey is quite unique and atypical. However, I'll also provide you with a more standard way to approach getting into prominent tech companies, making this article useful for everyone.

My Journey to Facebook AI

Initially, I never considered a career in software engineering. My academic background was firmly rooted in science and research. I completed my bachelor's degree in physics in Ukraine, always looking to the next step: studying abroad for my master's degree. At that time, I was somewhat narrow-minded about my options; I believed I could only apply to master's programs that focused solely on physics. In hindsight, this was a misconception. If you're a bachelor’s student studying math or physics, a wealth of opportunities awaits you in various technical specialties like computer science, economics, and more.

During my search for master's programs, I stumbled upon a program in Europe focused on imaging and color science, which piqued my interest as it had elements of physics while also appearing less monotonous than traditional physics. I applied and ultimately joined this program, still without much knowledge of software engineering or computer science. It was the summer before my master's program that I first googled "what is computer vision," igniting my interest in the fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and vision.

I quickly realized that this was a promising direction for my future. Although my master's curriculum didn’t focus heavily on software engineering, I took the initiative to learn more about it on my own through various online courses, which I'll cover in a future video. To enhance my knowledge and experience, I engaged in different projects and dove into machine learning research, writing my own papers along the way.

I also sought out internship experiences, even when my lack of experience made it challenging. Fortunately, I secured an internship at the renowned CAR11 European University, where I worked with a computer vision team. Additionally, I participated in a summer school focused on deep learning and data science, where I learned about a residency program that caught my attention. This program was geared towards attracting individuals with non-standard backgrounds into the AI research field, which was perfectly aligned with my own journey.

Understanding that I had built a strong foundation in research through publications and workshops, I decided to apply to residency programs, along with some Ph.D. programs as backup plans. Despite receiving numerous rejections, I successfully navigated the interview process at Facebook and am now part of their team.

How You Can Get Into Tech Giants

While my path involved a unique residency program, it’s essential to understand that many others have successfully joined Facebook, Google, and Apple through more conventional routes. Most professionals in the software engineering realm don’t require specialized education; instead, they depend on experience, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of algorithms and data structures. Here's a detailed outline of how to approach this:

The Application Process

Apply via the Company's Website: This straightforward approach is often underappreciated but can lead to successful placements.
Leverage Referrals: Having someone within the company refer you can significantly increase your chances of standing out among numerous applications. A referral allows your resume to be seen more readily by recruiters.
Prepare for Interviews:
- Algorithm and Data Structure Questions: These focus more on your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities than on specific programming languages. Resources like LeetCode are invaluable for practice.
- System Design Interviews: These assess your understanding of how various systems function, including architecture and interactions.
- Behavioral Interviews: These typically cover your past experiences, team dynamics, and problem-solving methods. Here, collecting "STAR" (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories can be crucial.
Keep Applying: Persistence is key. Don't allow rejections to define your abilities. Each application is an opportunity to learn and improve.

Conclusion

In summary, securing a position at a tech company involves more than just academic credentials; it revolves around how you present your skills, experience, and motivations. Remember, numerous paths lead to these opportunities, and the more you apply and interview, the better your chances will be.

Keyword

Facebook AI
software engineering
master program
imaging and color science
computer vision
machine learning
internships
residency program
algorithms
system design
behavioral interviews
persistence

FAQ

Q1: Do I need a computer science degree to work at Facebook?
A1: No, many people from varied educational backgrounds succeed in securing roles at Facebook. Relevant experience and skills are often more important than your specific degree.

Q2: What is the best way to apply for a job at a tech company?
A2: Apply directly through the company's website. Having a referral from an employee can also significantly increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters.

Q3: How important is interview preparation?
A3: Interview preparation is crucial. Focusing on algorithms, system design, and behavioral interviews can make a significant difference in your performance.

Q4: What should I do if I receive a rejection?
A4: Don’t get disheartened. Each rejection is a learning opportunity. Keep applying and refining your interview strategies; persistence is key.

Q5: Can I switch fields from physics to AI or software engineering?
A5: Absolutely! Many people transition from different fields, including physics and mathematics, into AI and software engineering. Your analytical skills can be advantageous in tech.