Post-grad at CMU, Pittsburgh for engineer from Bangalore

Master in Information System Management (MISM) is a branch of study which deals with the management of Information Systems of organisations. This is a popular course among students, since there is a rising need for individuals with precise knowledge on managing and maintaining information systems. This course would include topics like information systems modelling, databases, computer networks, to name a few.

Many universities abroad are sought-after for being pioneers in offering this course and it is certainly one of the few most opted choices of Indian students when they choose to go for Masters abroad. We had a chat with one such student, Ragav Ramakrishna from Bangalore, who plans to pursue the MISM course in Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh. Let us look at what he had to say.

a. Tell us something about your current university and why you choose to attend it?

 Carnegie Mellon University, situated in Pittsburgh, is a world-renowned university and has been a pioneer in the research field for long. The university profile as a whole, is top notch and it consistently hits the top 10 in most of the ranking charts, which clearly insinuates that it is one of the very best. There were many factors which prompted me to choose CMU over other universities like NYU, UPenn, VTech, Univ of Washington Seattle. The choice of subjects they provide, the reputation that comes along with CMU, the freedom they offer to their students and their inter-disciplinary activities, combined with hectic course work would give me an opportunity to learn both my major subjects and others that are of interest to me. There are also many esteemed professors conducting research on a wide spectrum of topics and there is little doubt that the faculty profile is the very best.

b. How was your overall experience during the admission process from India to US?

I was extremely nervous at first. The process seemed radically different from that in India. Ms Binita Parekh, head of Beyond Boundaries Education Consulting, explained the entire process in a very detailed manner, and I was convinced that with her guidance, the admission process would be very smooth. She gave me profound instructions which were instrumental in helping me apply to a large number of universities and secure admissions in prestigious ones. The visa process also went on very well, by following her meticulous planning and guidance.

c. Give us a brief idea about your background.

I am 21 year old Computer Science and Engineering graduate from Bangalore. I pursued my engineering from CMR Institute of Technology, Bangalore, affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University. I secured 82% in my engineering and also held a few leadership roles in college and I also have two publications under my belt.

d. What course/programme are you currently pursuing and what motivated you to get into it?

At CMU, I will be pursuing Master Of Information Systems Management course popularly abbreviated as MIS or MISM. I want to specialize in ‘IT strategy and Management' within the MISM umbrella. The data burst that is happening today is exponential and data is becoming an integral part of our life. A lot of promising and emerging fields of computer science have their roots embedded in data. So, I think information systems will open up a gazillion opportunities for me to work and explore.

e. What are your future plans after the programme?

 Post MS, I would like to kick-start my career, preferably as a Consultant or Strategic Associate. Later on, I aspire to head a company which can help develop and support entrepreneurs who want to make a larger impact in the society. I feel that by supporting them I would have indirectly made an impact in the society.