Pranav Nair: A Beacon of Grit and Determination
In the heart of Guwahati, a remarkable journey of perseverance unfolds as 22-year-old Pranav Nair defies the odds stacked against him. Born with cerebral palsy and confined to a wheelchair, Nair’s dreams soared beyond the limitations of his physical condition. His aspiration? To become a software engineer at none other than the technological behemoth, Google. This is his story of unwavering determination and success.
Since his childhood, Nair faced the dual challenges of societal perception and academic accessibility. Despite the hindrances, his parents’ unwavering support played a pivotal role in shaping his ambitions. “My parents provided me with a platform where I could dream beyond the ordinary norms,” Nair reminisces. They were instrumental in navigating through the countless small obstacles, ensuring that their son’s journey through education was as smooth as possible.
Education was a battlefield of its own. Mainstream schools were initially reluctant to admit Nair due to the logistic adjustments his condition warranted. However, perseverance turned the tide in his favor, allowing him to pursue schooling in Muscat, Oman. It was here that Nair, originally aspiring to enter the medical field, discovered his passion for computer science, a field where he perceived his physical challenges wouldn’t limit his potential.
His love for computers secured him a coveted spot in the Computer Science and Engineering course at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IITG), through sheer merit—rank 27 in the Person with Disability (PWD) category. “Technology has really touched to make my life more simple and fulfilling,” he reflects, envisioning a future where he can leverage technology to enhance the lives of others facing similar challenges.
Nair’s transition to IIT Guwahati marked a significant turn in his journey. The institute not only provided an accessible learning environment but also a plethora of opportunities to grow and excel. “I did not face too many challenges in IITG… and living in a hostel has helped me learn self-survival skills and be more independent,” he shares. The supportive community, coupled with the institute’s infrastructure, laid a solid foundation for his professional aspirations.
It was during his tenure at IITG that Nair secured two internships with Google through on-campus recruitment drives. His exceptional performance during these stints led to a Pre-Placement Offer (PPO) from the tech giant at their Bengaluru office, a milestone that he looks forward to as he prepares to graduate.
Nair credits a significant part of his success to consistent preparation, leveraging online coding platforms, and the enriching experience gained through internships at startup companies. These experiences not only honed his technical skills but also provided insight into corporate expectations, preparing him for his future role at Google.
Looking forward, Nair envisions a career where he can make a significant impact, utilizing technology to create accessible solutions for the masses. “I also wish that my physical disabilities don’t bother me in any way during my work and that I have an equal platform with work-life balance,” he articulates. Above all, his ultimate goal is to give back to society, transforming lives just as technology transformed his.
Pranav Nair’s journey is a testament to the fact that limitations only exist if we allow them to. His story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it’s about breaking barriers, inspiring change, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. As he prepares to join Google in July, Nair stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder that dreams, with enough determination, do come true.
