Introduction
I recently got accepted for the MLH Fellowship Program 2024 Spring. I got rejected twice before. I want to share how I prepared for it here.
To apply for this program, you need to submit a sample project and essays on why you want to become an MLH Fellow.
Learn from the Rejection
After reviewing the essays you submitted with your application, our interviewers did not get the sense that you were especially passionate about the MLH Fellowship.
This was the feedback for my second application. I also knew one of my friends got rejected for his/her sample project. I learned two things from this that my sample project was good enough and that they highly likely checked all the applications one by one.
This was important to me since I didn't want to spend that much time on ATS auto rejection. I decided to put more effort into this application. How can I show I'm passionate about the program? The essay part is the key to this. I needed to know about the program to show my passion and explain why this program would help me to succeed in the tech industry.
How I researched about the program
This process needs some time but it helps you to show how passionate you are about the program.
- Check their website
- Check their YouTube channel
- Check blog posts by past participants
- Talk with past participants
How I prepared the selection process
- Asked my friends to review my application
- Practice general and technical interview with my partner and friends
Extra Step
I'm not sure if this helps me to get an interview but it might have something to do with it. I was active in the MLH events. They have Hackathons and Weeklong workshop events. I got prizes from the Hackathon and stickers for participating in their workshop events.
I especially enjoy their month-long Hackathon. I can work on the project at my pace, unlike weekend Hackathon.
Ending Note
The MLH Fellowship program is appealing to early career developers and open to anyone around the world, so the competition is high. I heard the passing rate is only 2%. This program is mainly for college students, so career switchers probably have a lower chance of getting into the program. The good thing is that you can apply for the program as many times as you want. If you improve your application according to their feedback, you have more chance to get into a program.
Good luck with your application. I hope my experiences and insights provide valuable guidance for those considering the MLH Fellowship application.
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