Alumna Jessica LaDow is a Partner Operations Manager at Google Pittsburgh Monday, March 16, 2015
Meet Jessica LaDow
Job title and employer: Partner Operations Manager, Shopping at Google
Degree earned at Point Park: B.A. in journalism, 2009
Hometown: Erie, Pa.
Now living in: Pittsburgh, Pa.
High school: McDowell High School
Hobbies/interests: Cooking, reading, exploring the Internet
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaladow
How did you land your job at Shopping at Google?
I was contacted on LinkedIn by a Google recruiter who thought that my experience and skills would make me a good fit for the job. I applied, went through a rigorous interview process and was offered the job. I absolutely recommend that students and alumni keep their profiles updated. You never know where you might find a life-changing opportunity!
What are your current job responsibilities?
I provide operational support for major retailers who advertise on Google Shopping and other comparison shopping engines. I use a variety of internal tools to detect, diagnose and resolve issues that affect our clients and their product data. One of the biggest things that I do is provide clear communication of complex concepts to our clients and internal partners.
Why did you choose to attend Point Park?
I chose Point Park University for the great journalism program and the exciting location in Downtown Pittsburgh.
What was it like going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh?
Living and learning in Downtown Pittsburgh was exciting! I loved being surrounded by the buzz of the city.
My classes took me on field trips to the Allegheny County Courthouse, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, several theaters in the Cultural District and other interesting locations in Downtown Pittsburgh.
Plus, when I interned at the Post-Gazette my senior year, the office was just down the street from my apartment on campus.
What was one of your favorite experiences at Point Park?
My best memories were made working at The Globe, the student newspaper. I worked my way up from a contributing writer to editor-in-chief, and that journey taught me huge lessons in work ethic, professionalism, independence and leadership. I also made great friends who shaped my time at Point Park into a great experience! I also built great memories as a work study at the former Point Park University Children's School. I was able to work on campus to help pay for living expenses while taking classes.
What advice do you have for a prospective student?
Get involved in campus activities! It's the best way to make friends with common interests, and you'll get some great real-world experiences.