Upon our arrival at the Googleplex on Tuesday, September 16, we checked in and met with Lee Hunter, Google’s Project Lead for the “Google Online Marketing Challenge.” We also met the Global Winners from University of Western Australia, who we had previously met two nights before, along the America finalists from Boise State University and James Madison University. The Global Winners, Victor Tsen, Aaron Balm, Lauren Bobridge, Amy Smith, and Arina Usikov were delighted to share their thought about the competition as well as their culture. Arina noted, “it was amazing because it was an chance to engage in Internet Marketing which is currently a fast, growing industry.”

Next, we ate breakfast in one of the eighteen eateries that are located within the Googleplex campus. After breakfast, we walked to the main meeting room where all of the day’s magic was going to take place. Lee began by presenting some opening remarks regarding the competition and history of Google. This was followed by presentations by Google employees on the functions of their various departments. Here, we learned about the top-secret methods (sorry, I can’t mention them here) that Google uses in order to stay on top of the industry. Before heading to lunch, we discussed the competition in greater detail, received our prize, and learned what it is like to work at Google.

After lunch, we toured the campus. The overall atmosphere at Google was overwhelming. Outside, there was T-Rex statue and employees playing volleyball. Inside, people we playing Pool, and a spaceship was hanging from the ceiling. As we walked, it was easy to see why Google is rated the number one place to work. Our tour guide noted, “I have been here for 4 years and I still pinch myself every morning.” After the tour, it was time for our wonderful experience to draw to a close. Overall, engaging in the Google Online Marketing Challenge was a fantastic opportunity. If you would like to have a chance to take part in the amazing experience, I suggest that you sign up for IST 402 in Spring 2009 under Prof. Jim Jansen.