I'm trying to find some time to write stuff up regarding all the stupid things you need to know about intern years to make the best decisions for your goals when applying to them. Hopefully I can get this done sooner than later.
Random quick points:
1. Send LOIs early (people were definitely lying to each other about when to send them this year)
2. Don't send many LOIs. They should be genuine.
3. Lighting is way more important than camera quality. A good camera is important but 1080p is fine.
3. Test your setup, especially your mic and audio for various times of the day depending on your living situation. Using a good mic is important but it can be a $20 Lavoisier mic not some expensive blue yeti streamer BS. Get a friend to tell you if there is echo from your speakers etc.
4. Don't put a bunch of dumb stuff in your background. The interviewer should be focused on you and feel as close to possible as sitting in the room with you. That means no distracting stuff. A detail or some shelves isn't a big deal but don't be a dweeb with a twitter logo painting on the wall or 6 guitars. (personal opinion and controversial).
5. Go ahead and accept that appearance/polished setup and ability to function in this virtual environment makes a subconscious difference. It might not be fair financially and might seem silly but just understand that's the deal and you should suck it up and compete. Wear a suit, wear pants, look half decent at meet and greets...
