FORESIGHT(2024) | Internship at Texas Instruments | Sanidhya Raj
- Brief introduction and description of the offered role
Hello, I hope you all are doing well! I am Sanidhya Raj, a soon-to-be fourth-year undergraduate student from the Department of Mathematics. I am from Patna, Bihar, and currently reside at MMM Hall of Residence. Last year, I received an offer from Texas Instruments for an embedded software engineering role.
2. How did you get into Texas Instruments? What was the selection procedure?
The process began with the submission of my CV. The initial filter was an online test consisting of MCQ questions on aptitude, C/C++ fundamentals, OOPs, operating systems, and a few on electronics/hardware.
Next was the interview round, which at Texas Instruments is straightforward as it consists of only one round, unlike other companies. In the first half of the interview, I was thoroughly questioned about my CV, focusing mainly on the projects I had listed. Since the interview was conducted online, I was asked to share my screen and code in C or C++. Basic questions from data structures and algorithms were asked, covering linked lists, bitwise operators, and sorting (2-Easy and 1-Medium level). Toward the end, they asked general HR questions I had prepared in advance.
3. How to prepare for them?
During the summer break, I interned and rigorously practiced DSA problems on leetcode. For theory, I referred to Algozenith and Striver. Additionally, I spent a day or two revising probability and statistics and solved some puzzles from GFG, as these are commonly asked in interviews, though not at Texas Instruments. I appeared for 6 interviews (3-Day 1 & 3-Day 2), and questions of varying difficulty from probability & statistics and puzzles were frequently asked. Spend more time practicing problems on graph algorithms and dynamic programming since they are more often asked. Consistency is the key. Just keep on grinding, and eventually, you’ll make it.
4. When did you start preparing for this role and according to you what is the ideal time for aspirants to begin their preparation?
I began my preparation in May 2023, when my summer vacation started. However, I recommend starting earlier to ease the pressure towards the end. Regardless of when you begin, stay calm and devise your strategy, then work consistently according to it. The last two months are crucial, so use that time wisely.
5. What difficulties did you face while preparing for this Company/Profile? How did you overcome them?
Keeping a consistent schedule was no easy feat, especially when fatigue set in. Balancing an internship alongside my DSA preparation added another layer of difficulty. However, I chose not to panic and focused on doing as much as possible. Having a group of friends to discuss coding problems with was incredibly helpful; it kept me consistent and motivated.
6. Are there any specific requirements such as department, CGPA, or other criteria for this position? Additionally, do certain PORs or EAAs enhance one’s chances of securing this internship?
Texas Instruments offers several roles, but only the embedded software engineering position is open for MA, IM, and CS. The other roles are limited to ECE/EE students. There is no specific CGPA cutoff, however, a higher CGPA is given priority. There is not much focus on the PORs.
7. According to you, who should ideally apply for this job?
Someone with a passion for software development and an interest in electronics and hardware should ideally aim for this role.
8. What are some of the major points you think would be valid to mention in your CV while targeting this profile?
TI places significant emphasis on projects, making it essential to include strong technical projects on your CV. Half of the interview revolves around discussing these projects, so be thoroughly prepared for detailed questions on each one. A high CGPA or a strong awards and achievements section would be a cherry on the cake.
9. Lastly, what advice would you like to give to the students aiming to grab CDC internships this year?
Make sure you’re well-prepared for a thorough CV grilling. Revise linked lists, DP, graphs, and probability & statistics well since they are quite frequently asked. There may be moments when you feel like giving up, but keep hustling. Remember hard work always pays!
