Data, storytelling with ML and my startup (Local.ly)
Mocha crumble cookie in whole milk, with decaf espresso roast, mocha drizzle and whipped cream
What drew you to computer science in the first place, and how did that curiosity evolve during your time at Purdue?
I was initially drawn to computer science because it felt like a perfect blend of logic, creativity, and real-world problem solving. At Purdue, that curiosity deepened as I started seeing how theory translated into systems that actually influence people’s decisions and experiences. Over time, my interest shifted from just writing correct code to building scalable, data-driven solutions that could make an impact.
What’s your favorite way to recharge after a long day of debugging or meetings?
I usually recharge by stepping away from screens and doing something creative. Painting, sketching, or even cooking. Sometimes a quiet walk or good coffee or just a call with my loved ones.
Was there a class, project, or research moment at Purdue that changed how you saw your future in tech?
Working on my research paper that required turning messy, real-world information into clear insights was a turning point for me. It showed me that tech isn’t just about building systems, it’s about enabling better decisions. That experience pushed me toward data analytics and machine learning.
You’ve led initiatives and worked in data-driven decision-making—what does “leadership” mean to you at this stage of your career?
Leadership now means clarity, accountability, and creating space for others to succeed. It’s less about having all the answers and more about asking the right questions and aligning people around shared goals. I see leadership as service using my skills to simplify complexity and help teams move forward with confidence.
What’s something people are often surprised to learn about you?
People are often surprised by how much I enjoy blending technical work with art and creative expression. I don’t see them as opposites because I believe creativity heavily influences how I approach problem-solving in tech.
What kind of impact do you hope your work in machine learning and data will have in the next few years?
I hope my work helps make systems more human-centered, ethical, and accessible. I want to use data and machine learning to support better decisions, especially in areas that affect well-being and equity. Long-term, I want my work to empower people rather than replace them.
What does being a member of Rewriting the Code mean to you?
Being part of Rewriting the Code means community, responsibility, and paying opportunity forward. It’s a space where mentorship and representation truly matter, and I value being able to support others navigating tech careers. It reminds me of my time when I was struggling and finding it hard to compete. So today I truly believe what my dad told me that success is stronger when it’s shared.
