Out of the Classroom: A Snapshot of Uber’s Summer 2018 Interns

Wayne Cunningham
20 min readadvanced
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Overview

The article provides insights into Uber's Summer 2018 intern program, highlighting the experiences and projects of various interns across different teams. It showcases the practical applications of their academic knowledge in a real-world setting and emphasizes the collaborative culture at Uber.

What You'll Learn

1

How to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams in a tech environment

2

Why understanding the design phase is crucial for software development

3

How to apply machine learning techniques in real-world applications

Prerequisites & Requirements

  • Basic understanding of software development principles
  • Familiarity with collaborative coding practices(optional)

Key Questions Answered

What types of projects did Uber interns work on during the summer of 2018?
Uber interns worked on a variety of projects across different teams, including machine learning applications, infrastructure development, and enhancing user experiences. For instance, interns contributed to projects in Uber Eats, Safety, AI Labs, Data Science, and Uber Freight, showcasing the diverse opportunities available.
How did interns describe their experiences at Uber?
Interns described their experiences as rewarding and challenging, emphasizing the collaborative culture at Uber. They highlighted the importance of mentorship and the opportunity to work on impactful projects that contribute to real-world solutions.
What skills did interns develop during their time at Uber?
Interns developed a range of skills including software design, machine learning implementation, and collaborative coding practices. They also learned to navigate complex project requirements and engage with cross-functional teams effectively.

Key Statistics & Figures

Number of engineering interns
Over 200
This figure reflects the scale of Uber's internship program in Summer 2018, showcasing the diversity and talent pool within the program.
Internship duration
12 to 16 weeks
This timeframe indicates the structured nature of the internship program, allowing interns to immerse themselves in meaningful projects.

Key Actionable Insights

1
Engage actively with your team to foster collaboration and innovation.
Collaboration is essential in tech environments like Uber, where projects often require input from multiple stakeholders. By engaging with your team, you can leverage diverse perspectives to enhance project outcomes.
2
Take ownership of your projects to drive personal and professional growth.
Many interns reported that taking responsibility for their projects helped them learn and grow as engineers. This ownership encourages deeper engagement with the work and leads to more significant contributions.
3
Seek mentorship and guidance to navigate complex challenges.
Interns emphasized the value of mentorship in overcoming obstacles and enhancing their learning experience. Building relationships with mentors can provide valuable insights and support.

Common Pitfalls

1
Failing to communicate effectively with team members can lead to misunderstandings and project delays.
This often happens when interns are hesitant to reach out for help or feedback. Encouraging open communication can mitigate these issues and enhance collaboration.