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Meet Yashwant:Ìý

Before joining the MS in Data Science program at Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØ, Yashwant followed an exploratory path shaped by a background in Electrical Engineering, early research lab experience, and even securing a role in the tech industry—only to realize that a traditional 9-to-5 in electronics wasn’t the right fit.ÌýÌý

Instead, they were led to Data Science as a flexible, high-impact skill set for decision-making and innovation. Drawn to Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder’s unique combination of strong academics, hands-on opportunities, and entrepreneurial ecosystem, they’ve since taken full advantage of the program—working across research labs, engaging with startup initiatives, and now serving as a Founding Engineer at a pre-revenue AI startup in the entertainment space—demonstrating how the MS-DS experience can empower students to explore broadly, build technical depth, and translate that into real-world outcomes.Ìý

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Could you tell us about your educational and work experience background before you enrolled in this program?Ìý

Before I joined this program, I wasn’t particularly interested in the traditional 9-to-5 job. Instead, I was eager to explore various opportunities. For instance, I worked at a research lab to gain insights into the research world. Interestingly, I even interviewed for positions at major tech companies. Surprisingly, I secured a job, but I realized that electronics wasn’t my passion. I had only accepted the interview because I had spent four years studying Electrical Engineering. While I understand that a short period of time may not provide a comprehensive understanding of a field’s impact, I believed that trying different things quickly was the best approach. That’s exactly what I did until I realized that I should explore different areas of interest.Ìý

What initially drew you to this program?Ìý

To be honest, I was a bit uncertain when I chose Data Science. I was at a stage where I was trying different things in my life, and Data Science seemed like something that could significantly impact decision-making. So, I decided to pursue this course. A major factor in my decision to come to CU’s Data Science program was the university’s architecture. Education quality is important, but for me, I wanted to study in a well-designed university, and Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØfelt like the place where I wanted to be.Ìý

What are your favorite parts of the program?Ìý

My favorite part is the numerous opportunities I’ve had to explore and work on. I’ve worked in multiple research labs, and over the summer, I collaborated with Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØstartup initiatives to launch my own startup. I’ve met some incredible people and professors who have all helped me reach the point where I can’t thank them enough. Now, I’m a Founding Engineer at a pre-revenue startup, and I’m working hard to make it a success. All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the exposure to excellent courses, professors, and Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØresources.Ìý

What do you hope to do with your MS-DS degree? Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not?Ìý

Well, I would like to use it to demonstrate my credibility for upcoming journeys. Who knows, I might return to Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØsometime later to pursue a PhD. It’s not something I’m planning to do anytime soon, but it’s something I would really want to do.Ìý

Of course, I enjoy the course. I would highly recommend the University of Colorado in general. I genuinely love my university and all the opportunities I’ve explored. There’s still much more toÌýdiscover;Ìýif only I had more time.Ìý

What do you wish you’d known before starting theÌýMS-DS,ÌýandÌýwhat'sÌýone tip you have for students who are starting this program?Ìý

I wish I had known my career path before embarking on my MSDS journey. Throughout my time at CU, I’ve discovered my passions and interests, although they don’t entirely align with data science. However, I’ve managed to incorporate the data science skills I’ve acquired into my daily responsibilities.Ìý

I would say be grateful. Don’t just take help from others; also return it to those in need. This is very important in today’s highly competitive world. Without helping each other, no one can reach their desired goals.Ìý

Is there a specific project you have worked on that stands out to you?Ìý

Yes, I’m actively working on my startup, which is an AI infrastructure company in the entertainment industry. We’ve made significant progress and are almost ready to secure funding and officially launch. The work I’ve been doing on this is incredibly important to me. I dream about it, think about it while eating, playing, and even while sleeping, because I’ve been working on it for a very long time now.Ìý