We are pleased to present the latest editions of My Path to Google. Here, we speak to Googlers, interns, and alumni about their journey to Google and what their roles were.
Today's post is about Prisha Bathia, who works in our London office. Her passion for YouTube videos inspired her to become interested in digital marketing. She eventually became a full-time employee at Google helping customers.
Tell us about yourself.
My favorite hobby is to film videos for my YouTube channel. This channel helps me raise awareness about my rare chronic condition, Sturge Weber Syndrome. It is a neurological condition that affects my brain, eyes and face. A vascular birthmark (also known by port-wine stain) is a result of larger blood vessels in the brain. This is also why I have glaucoma (an eye condition that causes me to have reduced vision in my left eye because of high pressure and retina detachment).
Growing up, I was not the most confident person. My visible differences were a problem for me and there wasn't much discussion in the media. I wanted to change this and make others feel more confident. My channel also features videos about bullying, self-confidence, and my hospital experience. To show that my illness doesn't hinder me from reaching my goals, I also record travel vlogs.
What is your role at Google
I am 20 years old and have recently moved into a full-time position as an Associate Account Strategist on the Google Customer Solutions team. I manage small and medium-sized businesses. I educate them about Google Ads to maximize their return.
Prior to that, I was an apprentice on the Hardware marketing team where I assisted with product launches, seasonal campaigns, and paid media campaigns in over 15 countries. I enjoyed using data and Google Analytics to plan campaigns.
How did you get interested in digital marketing?
Great Ormond Street Hospital, the hospital that I have been volunteering with and the one that has treated me since childhood, offered me a job on their digital marketing team in 2018. This role involved optimizing and setting up campaigns and analysing data. It was a great job and made a difference. Combining that experience with my background in content creation inspired me to make digital presence a career.
How was the Google recruitment process for you?
Because I had the opportunity to meet so many amazing apprentices, I still vividly recall the day of my interview. It was my first interview for a job so I wasn't sure what to expect. It was both scary and exciting at the same time.
Because of my illness, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get the job. Growing up, I was anxious about my future career and what my hospital life would do to it. My fear was that I would miss school and be unable to pursue my career. But, I'm so glad that it hasn't been that way. My condition actually led me to my digital marketing career.
We would love to hear about your experience at Google.
Google employees are so kind and supportive. They show genuine interest in my condition and what they can do to help. They know that my condition can get worse on any given day and that I need to see a doctor frequently.
Tiredness is a major problem, especially at work. My right eye is the only one I can use, so my eyes are often strained. This led to me struggling in my first months of my apprenticeship. My mentor and manager helped me make changes in my daily routine. We now make sure I have the flexibility to take breaks, work remotely, and leave the office on time.
It has been difficult to work from home over the past year. My condition deteriorated at times due to excessive screen time. We found solutions by being open with our team. My biggest tip for anyone who is going through something similar is to talk openly with your manager or another trusted person.
How has the hybrid model worked for you with voluntary return to work at the London office?
The hybrid work model is great for me. It allows me to manage my health and work. Recently, I was able to get to work and have been able reduce my screen time. It has also helped me think less about my chronic disease.
Are you a Googler? Do you have any tips for them?
Every opportunity is a chance to learn. Every opportunity is an opportunity to learn new skills and make mistakes. It is the best way for you to grow professionally as well as personally.
