There were around 60 candidates from several colleges for the Software Engineer role. The interview process consisted of two technical interviews followed by one HR interview.
In the first technical interview, most candidates were asked basic programming questions in Java (preferred). If they were not comfortable with Java, they were allowed to answer in C++, Python, or even write pseudocode. Basic SQL questions were also asked.
However, my experience was different. When my turn came, the interviewer looked at my resume twice and asked if I knew Java. I explained that I had a good understanding of Java concepts, including OOP and programming fundamentals, and that I could write Java code, although I hadn't practiced it recently and might make minor syntax mistakes.
Despite my explanation, the interviewer said, "We are only looking for candidates who have proven experience in Java." I tried to clarify that I was confident in my Java knowledge, but the interviewer did not consider my response and asked me to leave without conducting the technical interview.
**Suggestion for future candidates:** If you're interviewing for this role, make sure you practice Java coding beforehand. They appear to expect candidates to demonstrate hands-on Java coding skills rather than just theoretical knowledge, so be comfortable writing Java code during the interview.