haack

Fair point, there definitely is a danger of over doing it. I'd keep it simple. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication after all.

A designer at a startup that I interviewed with, said it stood out from the hundreds of other CV's they'd received which meant they at least looked at it.

I've been told that my CV is OK for startups and the above companies. Less so for fintech, big corporates and academia.

I disagree (respectfully), he has a link to his Github profile which shows the projects he's been working on.

I'd be very wary of adding "bullshit" to your CV. Your awards, projects and internships show your motivation for wanting to make stuff.

I'm definitely an advocate for adding sparkling unicorns to it though.

As ridiculous as it may be, I think the presentation of your CV matters, especially with trendy big techs. Maybe try dressing it up a bit. Have a look at mine if you want: https://www.dropbox.com/s/agffmbzdqvckqta/CV_v2.6.pdf?dl=0. I've had some good feedback (including interviews/offers from the companies you mentioned).

Also I'm curious to know where you applied. I've found that the barrier is higher when applying abroad, especially the US.

MacBook Pro (Mid 2010)

I hate Apple, but can't deny this is the best piece of kit I've ever owned. Still going strong after 5 years.

This was highlighted as a good example of a YC application video by pg (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=855057). The original link is now dead so I have reposted with a working link.