Ayushi  | Master of Science in Computer Science

Originally from India, Ayushi moved to the United States in 2019 to study computer science at Western Michigan University. After completing her undergraduate degree, she spent three years working as a full-time software engineer before deciding to return to graduate school.

Her professional experience deepened her interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, leading her to Brown to pursue a master of science in computer science. She was drawn to the University’s research environment, faculty and rigorous curriculum, which offer opportunities to explore these fields in greater depth.

She is still getting settled into the Brown community, but one experience has already made a lasting impression: the International and All-Student Master’s Orientation. As someone new to Providence, Ayushi appreciated the opportunity to learn about Brown’s resources, explore the area and meet fellow students.

“One of the most rewarding experiences so far has been the International and All-Student Master’s Orientation. As someone who was new to Providence, the orientation gave me a chance to learn more about Brown, discover the resources available to students, and become familiar with the area through different activities.”

After graduation, she plans to continue growing as a software engineer, with a particular interest in making technology more accessible and easier to use. She also hopes to participate in research at Brown and explore how advances in AI and machine learning can improve people's lives. 

Her advice to incoming master’s students is to get involved early, take advantage of available resources and ask questions when they need help.

“There are dedicated teams and people across Brown who want to help students thrive, so you don’t have to figure everything out on your own,” she said. 

She also encourages students to connect with peers outside their academic programs and explore opportunities throughout the Brown community.

Ke Liu | Master of Science in Computer Science

Originally from Chengdu, China, Ke Liu is a master’s student in computer science and a proud graduate of the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor. She chose Brown for the freedom to explore different areas of the field without committing to a specific career path too early. Brown’s flexible approach to coursework allows her to discover her interests and consider a range of opportunities, from research and industry to entrepreneurship.

As a graduate assistant at the Center for Master’s Student Excellence (CMX), Liu is focused on helping master’s students find opportunities to connect and build community throughout the academic year.

In the role, Liu also helps organize events that bring master’s students together. The role has offered opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds and build connections across the University.

“One of my favorite parts has been seeing students who arrived as strangers leave an event laughing and talking like old friends,” Liu said. “It’s a small thing, but it makes the work feel worthwhile.”

Looking ahead, Liu hopes to continue learning, creating and pursuing work that feels meaningful and benefits others. Liu encourages incoming master’s students to stay open to new experiences, explore classes outside their usual interests and connect with people beyond their programs.

“Stay open-minded, take the class that sounds unusual, say yes to the event you're unsure about, and talk to people outside your program,” Liu said. “Some of my best experiences at Brown came from things I didn't plan for.”

Michael Hulala | Master’s in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship (PRIME)

Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Hulala has been part of the Brown community since his undergraduate years, when he double-concentrated in biology and economics. Drawn to Brown’s Open Curriculum and its flexibility to explore different interests, he returned to pursue a master’s degree through the Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship (PRIME) program.

During his undergraduate studies, Hulala became increasingly interested in economics and its applications to everyday life. After graduating, he wanted to continue exploring those interests while remaining part of the Brown community. PRIME offered an opportunity to build on his academic background and consider new professional directions.

“I’ve always loved being able to explore different interests, and Brown gives you so much freedom to do that.”

Looking ahead, Hulala is exploring opportunities in economics or finance, ideally in a role that allows him to work closely with people. He also hopes to launch his own company some day.

His advice to fellow master’s students? Try new things. Brown offers opportunities to connect with people who are passionate about a wide range of subjects, and it can be easy to miss those experiences while focused on coursework.

“Take the time to get to know the people around you, explore interests outside of your program, and say yes to things that push you outside of your comfort zone,” he said. “Some of my favorite experiences at Brown have come from things I never expected to do.”