Episode #23 Demystifying the Path to Big Tech: Insights From a 3x FAANG Engineer with Andy Wong

00:00 Journey into Software Engineering

05:18 Coding Bootcamps Hot Take

10:04 FAANG Interview Process

14:30 Smaller Orgs Idolatry of FANNG Companies Dispelled

18:05 Are FAANG Engineers Really That Much Better?

25:57 The Role of Luck in A Successful Career

30:11 Andy's Advice For Those Seeking an Influencer's Advice

In this episode of Cupalo Conversations, host Lauren Hannon pulls back the curtain a little on the world of big tech with three-time FAANG engineer, Andy Wong. Despite his impressive software engineering career at Google, Amazon, and Meta/Facebook, what sets Andy apart is his unconventional background. As an English and Psychology major who transitioned into tech through a coding bootcamp, Andy offers a refreshing perspective on achieving success in the industry without a traditional Computer Science degree.

Andy humbly attributes much of his journey to luck and being in the right place at the right time, debunking the myth of overnight success. He shares invaluable insights on how to prepare for FAANG interviews, emphasizing the importance of leveraging online resources and staying persistent.

One of the most surprising revelations from Andy is the mutual admiration between startups and big tech organizations. While startups often idolize big tech, Andy reveals that the reverse is also true, shedding light on the symbiotic relationship between these entities.

Throughout the conversation, Andy demystifies the aura surrounding big tech, offering a refreshingly human perspective on what it's like to work in these renowned organizations. His circuitous journey from liberal arts to tech is not only inspiring but also a testament to the diverse paths one can take to achieve success in the industry.

Tune in to Cupalo Conversations for an insightful and approachable exploration of the FAANG world with Andy Wong.

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