Navigating Your First Internship: Insights and Advice for Aspiring Developers

My second-year summer break marked the beginning of my professional journey as an intern at Amazon, where I gained my first taste of working with production code. However, the process was far from smooth. I had meticulously studied data structures and algorithms, even creating complex data structures such as segment trees on my own. Yet, my confidence quickly faded as I encountered the rigorous code review process and numerous feedback points that came with it.

Embracing the Code Review Process

Code reviews are a cornerstone of professional coding, especially at large companies like Amazon. These reviews are conducted by experienced developers who evaluate code quality and compliance with team guidelines. I submitted a simple API that faced my first rejection due to coding style and my second for the number of files in the review. Only after 12 revisions did my code finally receive positive feedback.

Feedback as a Learning Opportunity

One of the most challenging aspects was the numerous comments and suggestions I received. Poor variable naming, misplaced content, insufficient test cases, and a lack of pass by reference were among the most common issues. The feedback often felt overwhelming, but it was instrumental in my growth. Over time, I gradually improved, and the support from my mentor, who had gone through 36 revisions himself, was invaluable.

Advice for Aspiring Interns

Here are some key takeaways and advice based on my experiences and discussions with peers and founders in the industry:

1. Apply to Internships That Match Your Skills

Whether it's big companies or startups, apply to internships where you can see yourself contributing meaningfully. Tailoring your application and resume to align with the company's mission and your skills can significantly improve your chances of standing out.

2. Focus on Areas You Love

Choose internships that involve work you are passionate about or have always wanted to learn. This will make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful, as you will be more engaged and motivated.

3. Build Trust with Colleagues

Building trust with the people you work with is crucial. It lays a foundation for a positive and impactful internship experience. Regular communication, demonstrating reliability, and being solution-oriented can help you build strong relationships with your colleagues.

4. Develop Soft Skills

Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and networking are just as important as technical skills. For instance, sharing your small wins or accomplishments with your manager can create a positive impression and build trust. This can also help you stand out during performance evaluations.

5. Express Gratitude During the Internship

Writing a letter of appreciation to your team at the end of your internship can leave a lasting positive impression. Even though it may not directly benefit your career, it can boost your confidence and help you cherish the experiences that shaped your professional growth.

Conclusion

As a first-time intern, navigating the challenges of the code review process can be overwhelming, but it provides a valuable opportunity for growth. By embracing feedback, learning from your mistakes, and focusing on both technical and soft skills, you can make the most of your internship experience and set yourself up for future success.