residentialstudentstory

Yashwant Gandham

Nikitha Konanki Rajeswara Rao — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:41:09 +0000

Yashwant Gandham Nikitha Konank… Tue, 04/28/2026 - 10:41

Meet Yashwant:

Before joining the MS in Data Science program at �鶹��Ѱ��, 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.

Instead, they were led to Data Science as a flexible, high-impact skill set for decision-making and innovation. Drawn to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’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.

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

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.

What initially drew you to this program?

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 �鶹��Ѱ��felt like the place where I wanted to be.

What are your favorite parts of the program?

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 �鶹��Ѱ��startup 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 �鶹��Ѱ��resources.

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

Well, I would like to use it to demonstrate my credibility for upcoming journeys. Who knows, I might return to �鶹��Ѱ��sometime 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.

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 to discover; if only I had more time.

What do you wish you’d known before starting the MS-DS, and what's one tip you have for students who are starting this program?

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.

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.

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

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.

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Mrunal Bhosale

Nikitha Konanki Rajeswara Rao — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:55:31 +0000

Mrunal Bhosale Nikitha Konank… Tue, 03/31/2026 - 10:55

Meet Mrunal:

With a foundation in Mechanical Engineering and professional experience as a Data & Business Analyst, plus hands-on work with the Automotive Research Association of India, Mrunal entered the MS in Data Science program at �鶹��Ѱ�� to deepen their ability to turn complex, noisy data into meaningful insights.

Drawn by the program’s intersection of statistics, machine learning, and emerging agentic AI, they’ve expanded a core strength in pattern recognition into a versatile, cross-industry skill set—applicable from healthcare to automotive—highlighting how �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s MS-DS equips students from diverse backgrounds to build impactful, data-driven careers.

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

I’ve completed my undergrad in Mechanical Engineering as well as worked as a Data & Business Analyst for a year before I enrolled for this program. I’ve also collaborated on multiple projects at an internship at ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India).

What made you want to study Data Science at CU?

The cross path of statistics + machine engineering and the chance to study emerging agentic AI in depth drew me to this program.

One of my strengths has always been to notice patterns and shape noisy stories into something meaningful.

This program elevates that exact strength.

What do you wish you’d known before starting the MS-DS? What do you wish you’d known before starting the MS-DS?

I wish I’d known how versatile the knowledge of this program is. It can be applied in all fields right from healthcare to automotive!

Would you recommend this program to others? Any tips for anyone starting out?

Yes! I’d definitely recommend this program to the others. Data science is an emerging and ever growing field. The importance of this field in each sector is extremely valuable.

Data science is one of a kind program where, no matter which study background you come from, it’ll help you analyse and work towards a unique blend of your past experiences and applied knowledge that you love!

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Dnyanada Bhosale

Nikitha Konanki Rajeswara Rao — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:44:03 +0000

Dnyanada Bhosale Nikitha Konank… Tue, 01/27/2026 - 10:44

Hi Dnyanada! Thanks for sharing your story. What was your educational and work experience background before you enrolled in the MS-DS program?

Hello! I'm Dnyanada Bhosale, a passionate and driven first-year Master of Science in Data Science (MS DS) student at the �鶹��Ѱ��. I proudly serve as the Marketing Chair for the Data Science Student Association (DaSSA) at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. I completed my undergraduate studies in Electronics and Telecommunications engineering. I was working on a Generative Adversarial Networks project [before joining].

How are you involved now in the MS-DS program?

I proudly serve as the Marketing Chair for the Data Science Student Association (DaSSA) at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. One thing I love about DaSSA is that it makes sure MS-DS students get opportunities for professional development while making it fun and enjoyable. The events conducted by DaSSA are very good.

Very cool! what initially drew you to this program?

My academic journey is focused on mastering the tools and techniques of data science, with a keen interest in specializing in data analytics. I'm dedicated to leveraging data-driven insights to solve real-world problems, particularly within the fast-evolving tech landscape. MS-DS has a blend of faculty from Computer Science, Applied Science, Statistics, and Information Science. It closely aligns with the job role I would want to pursue in future. [The] curriculum offers a balance between academics and real life applications.

Would you recommend this program to others? What tips would you give to someone applying to the program?

Yes , definitely! The residential program provides many career opportunities and jobs for students. I would advise them to be confident and invest their time in pursuing master's at CU!

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Sai Nandini Tata

Nikitha Konanki Rajeswara Rao — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:59:46 +0000

Sai Nandini Tata Nikitha Konank… Tue, 01/27/2026 - 09:59

Thanks for interviewing with us, Sai! Can you tell us about your educational and work experience background before you enrolled in this program?

I have a bachelor’s degree in Electronics, but during the lockdown, I explored my interest in Machine Learning. I worked on several side projects, did a few remote internships, and that experience made me want to study this field further and understand the math behind it.

What initially drew you to this program?

When I was exploring different universities, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s curriculum stood out to me. One morning, I looked at the faculty list and noticed that Professors James Martin and Ramin Ayanzadeh were part of the program. That really inspired me. I wanted to be part of the same university as them. It felt like the right place to learn and grow.

Every Masters degree is a little different. How does the MS-DS program fit into your life?

The MS-DS program fits perfectly because it starts with the basics and then dives into the important topics needed in data science. It helped me brush up on my fundamentals while also teaching me how to understand what goes on behind the algorithms.

What are your favorite parts of the program?

Definitely the people and the projects! I’ve really enjoyed working with my peers, brainstorming ideas, and building things together. The campus is also beautiful, which makes the whole experience even better.

Is there anything you wish you’d known before starting the MS-DS?

I wish I had figured out time management a little earlier. It took me about a semester to get back into the rhythm of university life, but once I did, things started flowing smoothly.

What do you hope to do with your MS-DS degree?

I hope to apply the skills I’ve learned to meaningful projects and build strong connections through the �鶹��Ѱ��community. This program is helping me lay the foundation for a great career in data science.

Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not?

Of course! I absolutely loved it and would encourage more people to join and become part of the �鶹��Ѱ��Data Buffs community. It’s an amazing place to learn and grow.

Thanks, Sai! Lastly, what’s one tip you have for students who are starting this program?

Have fun! Take part in events, network with others, learn from people around you, and pay attention in class. Trust me, half your work will already be done.

Interested in starting your own journey? Explore the Residential Masters in Data Science.

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Kalp Mukund Mepani

Arushi Jha — Tue, 27 May 2025 17:47:42 +0000

Kalp Mukund Mepani Arushi Jha Tue, 05/27/2025 - 11:47

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

Before this program, I completed my bachelors in the field of Computer Science and Engineering and was part of a research internship at SUNY Binghamton followed by a corporate internship at State Street Corporation in the field of Artificial Intelligence

What initially drew you to this program?

My interest in Data Science grew mainly in 3rd year of my bachelors degree where I got to know how you can use machines to make them intelligent and predict our future and it would always excite me. The program outline along with the campus beauty was something that literally dragged me to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder!

Can you tell us how the MS-DS program fits into your life?

It fits perfectly! As I mentioned DS is something I want to pursue in my career and a lot of new opportunities are now open, now that I have successfully completed my Masters in Data Science. I feel that I am doing something which interests me, which excites me and so this masters fit perfectly with it. Along the way, I have also encountered a rollercoaster of experiences, facing moments of challenge and difficulty that have tested my resilience. However, these moments have taught me invaluable life lessons, pushing me to come back stronger and more determined than ever before.

What are your favorite parts of the program?

Met amazing people and worked on amazing projects such as finetuning our own LLM, using some of the awesome AI techniques and knowing more about AI in detail. The program also helped me create some useful projects and added some useful experiences and I got to know more about what I want to do after my masters, particularly in DS.

What do you hope to do with your MS-DS degree?

I want to explore more in the field of GenAI and LLMs and want to professionally contribute in this field. So, I want to use my degree along with the skills and knowledge that I have gained in the past years towards that. Additionally, I also want to use my data science skills in order to contribute towards the World where I can use the data to depict a meaningful story!

Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not?

Yes, I would definitely recommend this program. I believe it will be like a rollercoaster, where you will be at your lowest and your highest and it will teach you a lot of things apart from some real life experiences in the field of Data Science

What is one tip you have for students who are starting this program?

Try gaining more experiences under your faculty and if possible working on real-World issues into your projects. Lastly, just make sure to enjoy every bit of this program, while you can!

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

I feel fine tuning our own LLM that I did with my team is something unique and was really interesting. Along with that working on extracting sentiments and emotions using audio and video as well as working and designing analysis for animal shelters was something I think shaped me in a better way.

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