Software Engineer · Virtual Onsite · Multiple Types

Google — Software Engineer ❌ Failed

Level: Intern

Round: Virtual Onsite · Type: Multiple Types · Difficulty: 7/10 · Duration: 120 min · Interviewer: Unfriendly

Topics: Arrays, Heaps, Behavioral Questions

Location: Mountain View, CA

Interview date: 2026-01-15

Got offer: False

Summary

Round 1: Coding

Question: Given distinct objects with non-negative weights, return k subsets with the sum of weights in decreasing order. I implemented a brute force solution, but I couldn't implement the max-heap solution.

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Round 2: Behavioral (BQ)

Question: General behavioral questions about teamwork, problem-solving, and handling unexpected situations. I should have used the STAR method more consistently in my answers.

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Details

Coding Question Details

The coding question I got was similar to:

LeetCode 2386. Find the K-Sum of an Array

My approach: I initially attempted a brute-force solution but failed to implement the max-heap approach during the interview.

Behavioral Question Details

The interviewer asked general behavioral questions, including:

• How I handle a colleague who isn't actively cooperating.
• What I do when there isn't a clear solution and the impact of my actions.
• Whether there have been any out-of-expectation situations in my work.
• How I apply new things I've learned to my work.
• Times when I didn't reach my set goals, the reasons why, and what I learned.

Key Insights:

• The interviewer rephrased the key points of my answers.
• The interviewer seemed to not have reviewed my resume beforehand.
• The interviewer took notes while listening to my responses.

Preparation Tips & Key Takeaways

What I Learned

• I need to consistently use the STAR method to structure my behavioral answers.
• It's crucial to prepare for follow-up questions regarding the measurable impact of my actions and the context of my experiences.

Recommended Preparation

Behavioral Questions

• Practice preparing STAR stories for teamwork, problem-solving, and handling unexpected situations.
• Ensure stories include specific examples of actions and measurable impacts.

LeetCode similar: LeetCode 2386