Rapleaf Software Engineer Interview Questions
& Process

First, I had to complete a five-question online exam covering a database schema, pathfinding algorithm, sorting algorithm comparison, a probability question, and my motivation for joining Rapleaf. Then, I had a ~1-hour chat with the VP of Engineering, which included a probability-like question and a more detailed question about finding the "lowest common duplicate" in two arrays. After that, I was tasked with coding a basic blackjack game in Ruby. Finally, I flew out for about 8 hours of interviews, including lunch and a presentation on a topic I picked. I struggled with some of the algorithm questions and figured I wouldn't get an offer. The communication was prompt, even for the rejection. Everyone was friendly but seemed really focused on academics/computing, maybe to the detriment of a balanced life – I didn't get a sense of anyone's life outside of work (besides programming). The office is very open with conference rooms along the walls.

My interview process was pretty standard. I got a link to an online test with questions about graph algorithms, probability, databases, and my motivation for joining the company. I'm pretty sure I nailed it and got an email saying I passed the initial screening, but they felt my skills weren't a match. It was a pretty bad experience. It felt like they just used the online test instead of reviewing my resume. It's frustrating to spend an hour on a test when my resume apparently didn't even meet their vague, unstated qualifications. It seems like a way to avoid actually vetting candidates. Also, their casual approach, like giving me a nickname, felt unprofessional given I expected a more formal interaction based on my experience level.

They have a standard online test for engineering roles, with 5 questions on databases, graph traversals, and probability puzzles, given in one hour. They contacted me quickly after I finished the test for a phone interview. They also wanted me to check out their personalization API, but signing up was confusing due to a cryptic email verification message without a confirmation email. They asked for feedback but didn't acknowledge it. A few days after I told them I was withdrawing from the process, I got a weird email saying they had no more internship positions. They seem to be a better fit for recent CS grads, and seasoned professionals might not want to waste their time.