Nasdaq

Role: Internship (Computer Science Engineering Student)

College: Not Specified (Second-year CSE student)

Interview Date: Not Specified

Interview Type: Internship

Result: Rejected

Difficulty: Hard

Rounds: 4 rounds (Initial Screening, Online Assessment, First Technical Interview, Second Technical Interview)

Topics Asked: Aptitude and Logical Reasoning, Data Structures, Algorithms, Database Management, Object-Oriented Programming, Software Engineering Principles, Coding Challenges (detect cycle in linked list, optimizing an algorithm), System Design, Behavioral Questions (previous projects, teamwork, handling challenges)

Experience:

A second-year Computer Science Engineering student detailed their challenging interview experience for an internship at Nasdaq.

Round 1: Initial Screening The process began with an online application, submitting a resume and cover letter. Nasdaq looks for candidates with a strong technical foundation, good problem-solving skills, and an interest in the financial sector.

Round 2: Online Assessment This assessment was a blend of technical and cognitive tests. It included sections on Aptitude and Logical Reasoning, Technical Skills (core computer science concepts like data structures, algorithms, database management, OOP, and software engineering principles), and Coding Challenges. The candidate had to solve two coding problems similar to those on competitive programming platforms within a limited time.

Round 3: First Technical Interview This round focused on technical knowledge and problem-solving. The interviewer, a senior software engineer, presented two coding problems:

• Coding Problem 1: Implement a function to detect a cycle in a linked list. The interviewer focused on the candidate's thought process.
• Coding Problem 2: Optimize a given algorithm to reduce its time complexity, which was a challenging task requiring an in-depth understanding of data structures.

Round 4: Second Technical Interview This round was more focused on system design and advanced topics. Towards the end, behavioral questions were asked about previous projects, team activities, and handling challenging situations to gauge soft skills and team fit.

Outcome: The candidate was not able to clear the second technical interview. Feedback highlighted areas for improvement such as enhancing system design understanding and practicing more complex coding problems.

Tips: Ensure a solid understanding of core computer science subjects.