My Recent Google Interview Experience: University Graduate 2026

I applied via referral in April and received hiring interest form in May, with interview confirmations in June. The first technical round was a 45-minute session where the interviewer joined 10 minutes late but ended on time. The problem was based on Priority Queue (LeetCode Medium level). I discussed my brute force and optimal approach, then implemented the optimal one. The interviewer mentioned a follow-up question, but there wasn't enough time to discuss it further.

The second technical round was also 45 minutes on June 23. The question was Stack-based (LeetCode Hard level). I shared my approach step by step, but the interviewer didn't respond or clarify my questions. Still, I managed to solve the main problem optimally and completed the follow-up within time.

The third round was technical + Googliness on July 16. This was my best round—the interviewer was very friendly and encouraging. The problem set was Graph-based, and I solved both the main problem and the follow-up within the given time. The last 15 minutes were Googliness questions about leadership and teamwork experiences, which I answered confidently.

I felt confident after the final round and was hopeful for a positive result. However, on July 12 I received a rejection call, and the recruiter didn't share detailed feedback despite asking. It was tough to digest, especially after putting so much effort into preparation and execution. Still, I see this as a learning experience—sometimes rejection isn't about capability but about timing, fit, or just circumstances. This interview gave me a lot of confidence and clarity, and I believe it has prepared me better for future opportunities. I'll keep pushing forward and come back stronger.