Bypassing College: My Journey to Google and Beyond

In the UK, choices about subjects for GCSEs come early. I was drawn to business and technology, studying computer science even though coding wasn't really my thing.

I gravitated towards digital design through platforms like Photoshop and Illustrator, and I began building a portfolio, creating logos for acquaintances and nearby businesses during high school.

This evolved into social media marketing requests, and by 17, I was diving into a thriving freelance marketing journey.

Conventional academia didn't work for me, so instead of the university route, I joined the ORT Jump mentorship program, which matched students with mentors for an entire academic year.

Through this, I met Andrew Scrase from Meta's digital marketing team, learning about the dynamics of business media strategies.

Andrew's insights into media management and creative impact were enlightening, helping me grasp the landscape of large-scale marketing campaigns long before I turned 18.

Upon completing this mentorship, I sought out Google's digital marketing apprenticeship, which required passing several screening hurdles. I was prepared with a CV that featured a QR code directing to my online portfolio, adding a unique touch that helped me stand out.

A spontaneous interview over the phone tested my knowledge—questions about SEO and past campaign experiences led to my acceptance into the program just shy of 18.

This opportunity placed me among the youngest of Google's UK employees, where I plunged into a 15-month stint with the B2B ads marketing team, managing events and AI product discussions. Later I transitioned to the YouTube Social Team.

Climbing the Google Ladder

Post-apprenticeship, I targeted the associate product marketing manager role—a significant position for someone without a traditional degree.

The interview process, encompassing strategic cases and behavioral evaluations, focused heavily on 'Googleyness.' Despite my non-traditional path, I secured the position.

As the influencer and talent partnerships lead, I engaged directly with the UK market, working on campaigns for products like Pixel and Google Lens.

Gradually, my focus shifted towards nurturing influencer ties and community building.

A New Chapter: Leaving Google

In 2023, nearly four years into my tenure at Google, I opted to leave by March 2024. The work was enjoyable, but opportunities for advancement seemed limited.

Eager to delve deeper into social media, I faced constraints due to budget cuts and changing priorities, steering my decision to pursue independent interests.

I launched OnSocial in April 2024—a targeted agency delivering impactful growth through performance-focused advertising, utilizing my savings as startup capital.

Driven by a small but skilled team, we blend superior creative content with cutting-edge paid media strategies.

The Shift from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

Transitioning from Google's bustling offices to my own workspace was profound. Now, I juggle between working from home in London and planning relocation to the UAE, where our client base is steadily growing.

Running my own agency was always a goal, allowing me unmatched autonomy. While university is ideal for many, I discovered early that practical experience was my true educator.

Through mentorship and self-driven learning, I gained the proficiency to forge my path, steering me towards the independent venture I lead today.