Graduate Ambassadors

Elena Andrews, MSLIS (On-campus)
Hi! My name is Elena, and I am a second-year master's student in the dual degree program with the iSchool and the History department. I work at the main library as a pre-professional graduate assistant with the Teaching, Learning, and Academic Support unit, where I work at the reference desk, organize programming for undergraduate students, and teach information literacy courses. As a history student, I research gender and empire in American history, and have most recently done work on women and diplomacy at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. After school, I plan to apply to academic librarian jobs, with the hope to continue teaching and working with humanities researchers. Outside of school and work, I love to read, contra dance, and sing with the Oratorio Society here on campus!

Nicole Angell, MSLIS (Leep) 
Hello! My name is Nicole Angell, and I am currently pursuing my MSLIS. Before starting my degree, I received my BS in Elementary Education from U. of I. in 2022 and then taught English Language Arts for 3 years. My focus within the MSLIS program is on school libraries and media literacy. I plan to use my degree to support teachers and students in a library/media center. In addition to fostering a love of reading, I am passionate about teaching students to critically consume media. I am happy to answer any questions you have about the graduate program, online classes, or U. of I. in general!

Riddhi Bhapkar, MSIM student
Hi, I’m Riddhi Bhapkar, a current master’s student in Information Management at U. of I., originally from Mumbai. Before grad school, I earned my degree in Computer Engineering and led several projects in product management and business intelligence, where I worked closely with cross-functional teams to design solutions that improved business processes and decision-making. I chose the iSchool because it offers a unique blend of technology, data, and business strategy, which aligns perfectly with my passion for building practical, user-focused products. Currently, I’m focused on developing AI-powered tools that simplify data access and help organizations make smarter decisions. When I’m not busy with school or work, you’ll probably find me hiking, hanging out with my dogs, or watching a good game. If you want to chat about the iSchool, grad life, or just say hi, feel free to reach out!

Aditi Dahare, MSIM student
Hi! I’m Aditi, a master’s student in information management at the iSchool. My interests lie in data engineering, data analytics, and project management. Before my master’s, I worked at Accenture, where I got great hands-on experience with data systems and enterprise solutions. Right now, I’m a Data Engineering Intern at Synchrony and a Senior Project Manager for the Business Intelligence Group at the iSchool, which has been an amazing way to build my skills in both data and project management. When I was a prospective student, I learned how important it is to have the right guidance and connections to really understand what the iSchool has to offer. That made a big difference for me, and now as a Graduate Ambassador, I’m excited to help others explore the MSIM program and the iSchool community. Feel free to reach out if you want advice about courses, getting involved, or just life at the iSchool. I’m happy to chat!

Ishan Desai, MSIM student
Hi, I’m Ishan from Mumbai, India, and I’m a graduate student in the Information Management program at the U. of I., specializing in data science and analytics. I chose the MSIM program because of its strong focus on applying data and technology to real-world problems across industries. Currently, I’m working as a Data Scientist Intern at COUNTRY Financial, where I get to apply concepts I’ve learned in class like machine learning, data visualization, and product strategy to build AI-driven solutions for business needs. I’m passionate about using data to create impact, and I’d love to connect with anyone curious about the iSchool, the MSIM program, or navigating grad life at Illinois!

Rebecca Galkin, MSLIS (On-campus)
Hello, my name is Rebecca (she/her) and I'm a first-year MSLIS student. In 2021, I graduated with my BFA in Dramaturgy/Criticism from The Theatre School at DePaul University, along with a double-minor in English Literature and Museum Studies. Here, I also completed an undergraduate fellowship with the Newberry Library in Chicago, IL. I've worked professionally in the arts and humanities sector—which I am planning to incorporate into my graduate degree! I am currently exploring the public librarianship and archive/special collections pathways. I look forward to chatting with you!

Sara Kiel, MSIM Student
Hello! My name is Sara Kiel and I am a graduate student in the iSchool studying Information Management. I attended U. of I. for my undergraduate degree as well, graduating with a degree in Anthropology and as a first-generation student! I chose the MSIM program as I felt that it was the best avenue for me to explore my growing interest in technology while still leveraging my social science background. I am passionate about the field of User Experience (UX) and currently work as a UX Design Intern with Synchrony out of Research Park. On-campus, you can also find me working as a Graduate Assistant for the Main Library and leading Women in Data Science as President.

Anveksha Pandey, MSIM Student
Hi, my name is Anveksha. I am a 2nd-year master's student at the iSchool majoring in Information Management. I am a data engineer, and I enjoy making sense of complex data to solve real problems. Outside of academics and work, I stay active by playing badminton and squash, love to sing, and genuinely enjoy conversations where I can share and learn new perspectives. Feel free to reach out if you would like to connect about academics, graduate life experiences, or even exchange recommendations for the perfect study playlist.

Yash Sangle, MSIM student
Hi! I'm Yash, a graduate student at the iSchool with a focus on information consulting, business intelligence, and data analytics. Over the summer, I interned at JPMorgan Chase. I am also a member of the Business Intelligence Group here at Illinois. Before grad school, I worked in cyber risk advisory at KPMG and BSC Advisors. I chose the MSIM program at U. of I. for its strong mix of technical and consulting-driven coursework and the chance to be part of a diverse, collaborative community. Outside the classroom, I enjoy playing soccer, traveling to new places, and discovering different cuisines.

Simit Shah, MSIM student
I am Simit Shah and I am currently pursuing my MS in Information Management. On campus, I have been working with Illinois Business Consulting, where I collaborate with diverse teams to deliver innovative and strategic solutions. Outside of academics, I’m passionate about cricket, hiking, and stock market trading. With a strong interest in entrepreneurship, I enjoy exploring new ideas and opportunities while building the skills to make an impact in the world of business consulting. I chose MSIM because of the many opportunities one can pursue within the field. The diverse pathways allow students to explore what they are passionate about. If you need any tips with courses, student life, clubs or anything related please reach out.

Emma Zou, MSIM
Hi! I'm Emma, a graduate student in Information Management at the iSchool. I chose the MSIM program because it bridges data, technology, and a flexible curriculum—equipping me with the tools to turn insights into impact while exploring different pathways aligned with my interests. I come from a background in advertising and project management, with internship experience at global 4A agencies, startups, and local firms. Before grad school, I worked full-time as a project manager, leading data-driven marketing campaigns for global clients. Outside of class, I love working out, dancing, and recently started bouldering. If you're ever at the ARC, you might see me there! Feel free to reach out with any questions about the MSIM program or grad life at the iSchool—I'm always happy to chat.