Experiencing Facebook Internships: A Comprehensive Guide

Facebook internships are more than just a way to gain professional experience; they offer a unique and enriching journey that combines meaningful work, exceptional mentors, and incredible campus life. This article delves into my personal experience, providing a detailed account of what made my internship period at Facebook one of the happiest times in my life.

Meet incredible people and work on impactful projects

During my internship, I had the opportunity to meet a wonderful group of people who made me look forward to coming to work every day. The projects I worked on were meaningful, and I felt a strong sense of purpose in contributing to something significant. This mentorship and sense of collaboration were some of the most rewarding aspects of my experience. However, I did gain a few extra pounds along the way—cue the Tao of Taco reviews!

Food and Amenities

Tao of Taco and Building 25

Convenient Shuttle Service

Permanent Housing and Perks

The shuttle program provided an enjoyable and efficient way to navigate between the internship location and nearby areas. Additionally, the Tao of Taco, which is conveniently located in Building 25, was my go-to spot for a quick and delicious meal during my internship.

Mentorship and Learning Opportunities

My intern manager, who specialized in web development and systems, was incredibly knowledgeable and highly effective in teaching me new skills. His mentorship was instrumental in my growth, and I felt supported whenever I needed help. The camaraderie within the team was strong, with friendly colleagues always ready to assist. One of the highlights was working on the Stories on Web project, from which I gained valuable insights and even earned a one-off shirt celebrating the launch!

Placement and Project Complexity

Survey-based Placement

Real-world Internship

Scalability of Intern Programs

Interns at Facebook are placed based on personal skills and interests, not just project availability. The process was transparent, and it ensured that interns worked on projects that aligned with their interests and skillsets. Interestingly, only 2 interns out of 100 I was in contact with reported being unhappy with their placements, emphasizing how effective the program was in matching skills with projects.

Intern Perks and Benefits

Being treated as a full-time engineer (FTE) was a privilege during my internship. I had access to all sorts of company resources and received a lot of support, from product development plans to mentorship. The trust placed in interns was remarkable, and it was evident that the company values its temporary employees highly. Additionally, the housing allowance proved to be a significant benefit, especially in the Bay Area where healthcare can be expensive.

Communication and Feedback

Weekly 1-on-1 meetings with managers were held to ensure that interns could openly discuss their progress, challenges, and areas for improvement. These sessions were valuable for personal growth and professional development. A good manager here is not just someone who gives feedback; they actively listen and provide constructive criticism. Furthermore, the company culture encourages open communication and transparency, reflecting well on the overall experience.

Social Activities and Networking

Beyond the workspace, Facebook organized numerous events and trips to foster a sense of community among interns. A trip to Yosemite, a scavenger hunt in San Francisco, and a road trip to Los Angeles were some of the memorable social activities. These events, along with regular intern events, helped me maintain strong connections with my peers and newly formed friendships.

Overall, the internship experience at Facebook provided me with a wealth of knowledge, valuable skills, and unforgettable memories. The internship served as a launchpad for my career, and I continue to stay in touch with many of the incredible people I met.