Hey everyone, I'm a 2026 grad looking for SRE internships for the summer. So far, I've applied to around 30-40 roles but haven't heard back from any of them. I know that's a lot of applications, but I'm wondering if there might be something I'm doing wrong in my approach or application. Here's a bit about my experience:
- At RQS (Robust Quantum Simulation), I've helped modernize website deployment processes using GitHub and Netlify, which improved release times by 40%. I also served on the committee for a major conference, managing various logistics and analytics.
- With Verizon, I led the design of Python microservices with PostgreSQL and optimized systems to maintain a 99.95% uptime for over 30,000 employees. I also worked on scalable cloud environments and dashboards for real-time observability.
- Additionally, at Prodapt Solutions, I automated deployment processes and managed infrastructure for microservices, ensuring reliability for millions of users while significantly reducing manual overhead.
Given this background, I'm curious to hear your thoughts on my application strategy and any tips for standing out!
3 Answers
Getting an SRE role right after school can definitely be a tough sell. It seems like you're aiming for a senior-level position with that experience, which is pretty impressive for a recent grad! But it might come off as unexpected for recruiters. Have you thought about applying for roles that blend SRE with DevOps? They can sometimes be more accessible to newer candidates.
Like others mentioned, broadening your search beyond just SRE may help you get responses. Roles labeled as DevOps might include some of the responsibilities you're capable of handling, and companies are often more open to hiring for those positions.
You've got some solid experience under your belt! Just out of curiosity, did you handle all those projects independently or with guidance? Some of the stuff you achieved seems quite advanced for a new grad. Also, with three years of experience, why are you focusing just on internships? Why not go for a full-time SRE position?
Definitely agree! It’s all about the skills you bring to the table, and sometimes the title doesn't matter as much as the tasks at hand.