Introduction

Status: Undergrad, BE Computer Engineering
Interview Date: 26th July, 2023

Cisco Ideathon

Conducted by Cisco every year to hire new graduates from every college for all Intern+FTE roles. The stipend given is 98k (per month) and CTC is estimated to be 17-25 LPA. All the rounds are elimination rounds except one and you will only proceed to the next if you clear the previous round.

Round 0 (Quiz Round)

An OA is taken and two choices are provided for the final two questions, Advanced Software and Advanced Networks. You can take any one of these based on your preference. I took Advanced Software and the last two questions were based on DSA. All selected candidates will recieve a mail regarding the next round. Also the role offered is judged on this round so make sure to be prepared!

Round 1 (PPT Round)

Multiple problem statements are provided in my case 3 were provided and you have to come up with a solution with all the details such as how you would approach the problem, your research, limitations, etc. If you submit your PPT you will qualify this round as the only requirement is to submit it here.

Note: Be prepared with your PPT as they will grind you for about 30 mins on this and will cross question often.

Round 2 (Interview Round)

This is the most important round in the entire Ideathon were majority of the candidates are removed from this round. There was only one interviewer and he introduced himself having 4-5 years of experience at Cisco, then asked me to introduce myself.

After that interviewer moves on to the PPT and asks to explain the solution, my approach and research. Some cross questioning is done and flaws are shown in the solution. Your viewpoint is asked on how we would solve this issue and some basic questions are asked on the technologies that may be required in your statement. This is purely a discussion and you don't have to compulsorily implement your solution.

The interviewer will ask you to rate yourself before they begin(Be honest). I was then asked questions on Computer Networks like OSI Model, Ports, TCP connection, etc. Then questions on resume are asked about your internship experience, skills, and projects.

Round 3 (Managerial Round)

One manager is present with 20+ years of experience. Questions on PPT, projects, etc. are asked. The interview is a discussion to check your behaviour and communication skills. Interviewer asks to tell about past interview experiences and how would I perform if a situation was to occur and also discusses about your role.

Round 4(HR Round)

Congratulations! You are selected if you made to this round (until and unless you reject to come onsite). The HR asks if you know about Cisco, it's competition and where is Cisco leading and trying to work on. She described the duration, location and estimated salary if an offer is provided.

The process is of 1 day and all the interviews are coducted on the same day. The results are declared a week later but if you made it to the end there is a 99% chance you will be selected. I was selected for Intern + Full time (Technical Consulting Engineer) role.

Tips:

1. Prepare your introduction before the interview as this is how the interviewer will first judge your skills.
2. Try to be thorough with you problem statement and your solution.
3. You need to communicate with the interviewer as much as possible and if you don't know the solution don't guess. DO NOT BE SILENT
4. Try to research on what questions are asked for your role and prepare yourself.
5. Ask the interviewer questions you have after each round when the time is provided. This shows your interest.