Born and raised in Kolkata, India, a recent graduate shared his journey from studying computer science to working on Wall Street. He began his academic path at Pace University’s MS in Computer Science program after receiving a merit-based scholarship. The scholarship was awarded for his industry experience as a software engineer and his portfolio of research publications.
He described the academic environment at Pace’s New York City Campus as fast-paced and ambitious, noting the quality of instruction he received. Despite facing significant challenges, including a lengthy hospitalization that made him consider dropping out, he persevered with encouragement from faculty members. “You’re already in the top 20 percent. Now step out of your comfort zone and get into the top 5 percent,” one professor told him.
He graduated early in May 2023 and attributed his achievements to preparation, guidance from professors, and support from Pace’s Career Services.
Following graduation, he started an internship at a tech firm before moving on to Wells Fargo in 2024 as a senior software engineer. Wells Fargo is recognized among the largest financial institutions in the United States and serves one-third of U.S. households along with more than ten percent of small businesses through its banking, investment, and technology operations (https://www.forbes.com/companies/wells-fargo/). At age 27, he became the youngest senior software engineer on a major federal project within Wells Fargo. During his interview process for this role, interviewers noted their surprise at the depth of his answers given his age.
He credits much of his career advancement to thorough preparation as well as continued support from both professors and Pace’s Career Services.
In addition to technical roles, he has taken leadership positions managing cross-functional teams composed of professionals from various backgrounds. He highlighted how programs like Pace’s International Buddy Program helped him develop skills to work effectively with diverse groups.
“Fear ends where learning begins,” he said.
He hopes that sharing this story will inspire other aspiring engineers not to fear failure but instead embrace new learning opportunities.