( In this guide, there’s special section on how you can become too ! )
Hey everyone! I’m Ashish, the world’s youngest Google Developer Expert at just 18 years old. So, if any of you want to take a shot at breaking that record, you’ve got one month — just kidding! 😄
Picture this: a young kid hunched over his computer, furiously coding away, accidentally creating viruses that turned my machines into paperweights! Yep, that was me, making regular pit stops at the hardware repair shop because my curious fingers just couldn’t resist cutting wires and pushing buttons. During this chaos, I stumbled upon tech communities, and it was like discovering a secret lair of superheroes. “Whoa, these folks have some epic titles!” I thought. The first one that made my jaw drop was “Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador.” My immediate thought? “How on earth can I get one of those cool titles?”
That’s when I discovered the legendary Google Developer Expert Program. 🌟
The entry process was like trying to unlock a hidden level in a video game — There weren’t many GDEs around, and the entry process was tough. But the perks were amazing — travel support, a direct connection to a fantastic network, early access to Google products, and the chance to share my love for technology with the world. I thought, “Heck yes, this is exactly what I want!” Unfortunately, I was only 15 at the time, so I had to wait three years to apply.
Then, I met Ashok Vishwakarma at GDG Jalandhar, who guided me on how to become a GDE in 11th grade. I was pumped and thought, “Let’s freaking do this!” I made a checklist of everything I needed to accomplish
- Talks ( 10+ )
- Technical Articles / Content and Video ( Uncountable )
- Deep knowledge into my Technology that I’m applying for ( Literally dived into Chrome V8 Engine )
- Seminars and Webinars
For two relentless years, I tackled that checklist like it was a final boss fight — It wasn’t like I was forcing myself — I was in the zone driven by my passion ! I found all of it so fascinating, especially helping out the community, and that drove me to learn even more. During this journey, I had the wild honor of hosting the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India and discussing my AI project with him! Talk about a career highlight! 🥳 I also met the President of India, got featured in several magazines and newspapers, and even represented India on a global stage in Japan.
Eventually, I got my golden ticket — a recommendation from Ashok Vishwakarma! ( GDE — Web Tech )
The process to become a GDE is pretty straightforward. You need to be recommended by a GDE in your area of expertise based on your work, and then that recommendation is forwarded to the Program Manager. They evaluate your qualifications and guide you through the process, which includes two interviews.
- Product Round: Get ready for some tech questions that’ll make your brain spin!
- Community Round: They’ll ask how you engage with the community, so bring your A-game!
After conquering these rounds, you finally hear those magical words: “YOU ARE NOW OFFICIALLY A GDE!!” 🎊
Welcome to GDE Family ( For you )
But wait, there’s even more — introducing the ROAD TO GDE PROGRAM! In this program, current GDEs will train the next wave of GDEs, so you won’t feel lost on your journey. Just sign up, and let’s bring in the next GDEs to lead this amazing program and become part of this awesome family!
That’s it for now! If you have any questions, feel free to connect with me. Cheers! 🎉
By — Ashish Kumar Verma
Google Developer Expert — Web
Software Engineer at HTCD AI
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