B.S (Data Science and Applications)
Hari embarked on his ambitious academic journey in 2021 by enrolling in the IIT Madras BS Degree in Data Science and Applications. At the time, he was also pursuing a BSc in Mathematics from Delhi University, followed by an MSc in Data Science and Applied Statistics at the Central University of South Bihar. Consequently, Hari managed two degree programs concurrently. Yet, he found the IITM BS program to be the most demanding and life-changing aspect of his educational experience.
When he first stepped into the degree, Hari admits he was a bit overconfident. “I assumed I could just manage it on the side,” he recalls. But reality set in fast. The curriculum proved to be significantly more challenging than he initially anticipated – it was fast-paced, directly relevant to industry demands, and consistently high in its expectations. Balancing lectures, assignments, exams, and research became his routine for extended periods.
The immense effort invested in earning an IIT degree, though fundamental to the journey, often goes unacknowledged. “Months of constant screen time and long hours of hunching over the laptop took a toll on my health,” he admits. Yet, he persisted. Having recovered his health, he rededicated himself to his studies and emerged even stronger. By December 2024, he had remarkably completed the four-year BS degree in just three years and four months, significantly faster than the typical pace.
Notably, he also pursued several NPTEL courses, which significantly deepened his understanding of specific subjects. This dedication ultimately earned him recognition as an NPTEL Motivated Learner (Star), a testament to his commitment and drive.
“That acknowledgement meant a lot,” he says, reminiscing years of hardwork and commitment.
Throughout his journey, he deeply appreciated the unwavering support from the BS Degree Program. The various scholarships that eased his financial constraints, along with the laptop provided by the institution, proved essential for managing the coursework across all the programs he was enrolled in.
His learning experience took him to the campus of IIT Gandhinagar, as a visiting student. “That experience made me truly appreciate what I’ve gained through the degree and how I’m part of the IIT ecosystem,” he says with a warm smile.
Today, Hari is completing his MSc through an apprenticeship at NIELIT Patna, applying his theoretical skills to hands-on-projects. His momentum didn’t stop there – earlier this year, he cracked the GATE 2025 (DA) exam with an AIR of 830, placing him among the top 1.5% of candidates nationwide.
The most exciting chapter of his remarkable journey is still unfolding: Hari has received a direct PhD offer from IIT Gandhinagar, commencing in July 2025, where he will specialize in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. “It is a dream come true,” he beams. His selection for the PhD program was through the CFTI (Centrally Funded Technical Institutions) entry route, a pathway made possible by his IITM BS degree, bypassing the need for GATE or NET scores – a clear indication of the caliber of his academic foundation.
The PhD position comes with full fellowship support, paving the way for him to explore more.
Reflecting on his journey, he is quick to credit the IITM BS program. “It taught me more than data science – it taught me resilience, self-discipline, and how to push through challenges that feel insurmountable. It gave me a launchpad,” says Hari, reflecting on the numerous hours of dedicated effort that are now propelling him to even greater achievements.
– Contributed by Hari Prapan & Satyaki Goswami
