Yash Pradhan: Rising with Resilience and Data

Choosing UNC Charlotte for his Master’s in Data Science and Business Analytics was just the first step in Yash Pradhan’s leap of faith from Mumbai to a new life in Charlotte. Originally from Mumbai, India, and now proudly calling Charlotte home, Yash arrived with a deep determination, a passion for data, and $1000 in his pocket.

“The reason for choosing UNC Charlotte is because of its course structure for data science with the correct set of focus on technical, statistical, and business skills, and also because UNC Charlotte respects diversity and every culture across the globe.”

Yash’s journey into data science began during his undergraduate years, exploring machine learning and IoT. As he upskilled and saw the real-world impact of data, he realized he had found his calling. “Data science isn’t just about numbers. It’s about creating real value and becoming a better version of yourself, personally and professionally.”

Among the professors who shaped his path, Yash is quick to name Professor Chase Romano. “He’s been like a godfather figure—always pushing me to network, attend events, and match my skills to the right opportunities. His support was relentless.”

Yash recently graduated in May (Spring 2025) and is now interning as a Founding AI Engineer at Screenz.ai, where he gets to experiment with new technologies and build systems at scale. 

But his journey wasn’t easy. In his first months in the U.S., he juggled rent, groceries, and tuition without a campus job. “I had to strategize everything—network with professors, apply for assistantships, and prove myself constantly. Eventually, I earned a merit-based scholarship, secured two internships, worked with multiple professors, and paid off much of my tuition myself.”

Looking back, Yash sees it all as worth it. “I came with a loan, a suitcase, and a dream. And today, I stand tall knowing I never gave up.” He also thanks his parents and his cheerleaders—friends and peers who stood by him.

If he could send a message to his younger self, it would be this:

“Keep hustling, don’t look back, don’t fall back when you have bad days; good days are created based on your hard work and how smartly you manage yourself in your bad days. Keep learning and grow exponentially!”

As Yash’s journey at UNC Charlotte ends, his journey as a data leader is just beginning. With vision, grit, and heart, he’s ready to use data to make a difference—and to keep proving that no dream is too big when matched with determination.