Graduate Ambassadors

Gaurang Bhandare, MSIM student
Hi! I'm Gaurang, a master's student in information management (data science & analytics) at the iSchool. I came from India with two years of experience as a data engineer at Accenture and a belief that data could answer more than just technical problems. The MSIM program has been proving that right ever since. This past summer, I interned at Transamerica as a finance data engineer—an opportunity I credit to both my coursework and the iSchool's incredible career support. On campus, I'm a data steward for the Education Justice Project and an IT consultant at the U. of I. Service Desk. Outside of academics, my dream is to travel as much as possible around the United States (6 down, 44 to go), chasing good sports, great food, and new cities along the way. Feel free to reach out about courses, campus life, career journeys, or honest recommendations on where to eat near campus! 

Mackenzie Claunch, MSLIS student
Hi there! My name is Mackenzie, and I am a second-year graduate student in the MSLIS program. You can also find me as a graduate assistant for the Champaign-Urbana Community Fab Lab on campus. I have an undergraduate degree in history, and my background is primarily in museums and special collections. I am passionate about putting people at the center of my work, especially within the community. Outside of school, I enjoy weightlifting, walking outside, reading, and trying new coffee shops! If you are interested in archives, collections, being involved outside of campus, or just need a shoulder to lean on, do not hesitate to reach out. I look forward to seeing you around the iSchool! 

Caya Greenspan-Layman, MSLIS student
Hi! My name is Caya. I am a second-year MSLIS student and a graduate assistant with the Teaching, Learning, and Academic Support unit of the University Library. I am interested in both academic librarianship and public librarianship, and recently completed a practicum at the Champaign Public Library. Please feel free to reach out to me with questions about those areas or my experience with the program! Outside of librarianship, my interests include biking and exploring the C-U area with friends. 

Aman Joshi, MSIM student
Hi, I’m Aman! As a second-year MSIM student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I've enjoyed exploring data and AI/ML through projects, coursework, and conversations with people from diverse backgrounds. Curiosity, problem-solving, and learning from others have shaped much of the Illinois experience so far. Outside of academics, time is often spent at the gym, swimming, traveling, or planning the next trek. Serving as an MSIM ambassador is an exciting opportunity to support students, share honest insights about the program, and help others feel more confident as they navigate classes, campus life, and career opportunities. Always happy to connect and help! 

Parul Mudaliar, MSIM student
Hi! I’m Parul, a master’s student in information management. I came to Illinois from India with a background in software engineering and a curiosity that extended beyond building technology. I wanted to understand how data, AI, people, and product thinking come together to solve real-world problems. Through coursework, projects, campus leadership, and conversations, I've explored new ideas, challenged myself, and discovered opportunities I never expected. Whether you’re navigating graduate school as an international student, choosing courses, exploring career opportunities, getting involved on campus, or simply wondering what life at the iSchool is really like, I’m always happy to chat. Beyond the classroom, you’ll find me planning my next adventure, discovering new places, hiking, camping, listening to music, or enjoying a conversation over matcha. I look forward to connecting with you and being part of your iSchool journey! 

Ayushi Uttamani, MSIM Student
Hi fellow (or incoming) Illini! I’m Ayushi Uttamani, an MSIM student at the iSchool. I’m currently in NYC for my fall internship at Amazon, and I’m already missing campus! One of my favorite things about the U. of I. is how much there is to explore, from parks, nature spots, and stargazing points to clubs, events, and all the little campus gems you stumble upon along the way. The iSchool community has also been incredibly supportive, welcoming, and fun! Curious about the iSchool, campus life, or just looking for something new to explore? Come say hi - I’d love to chat! 

Srinath Venkatesh, MSIM Student
Hello! My name is Srinath Venkatesh, and I am an MS in Information Management student. I'm originally from Chennai, India, and my interests are in technology, data, and product strategy. On campus, I have been involved with Illinois Business Consulting, and this past summer, I interned with The Boston Consulting Group in their IT Architecture practice. Outside of academics and work, I enjoy going to the gym, trying new sports, and traveling. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the MSIM program, recruiting, or life at the U. of I.! 

Sneha Vyas, MSIM student
Hello, everyone! My name is Sneha Vyas, and I'm a second-year master's student in information management. Before starting graduate school, I worked at Deloitte Consulting and Siemens across strategy, consulting, and project management. This past summer, I interned with Lenovo's global product strategy team in their Chicago office. Outside of school, I'm usually on some kind of side quest. You'll often find me at the gym, dancing, or learning a new hobby (right now, it's tennis!). I also love traveling, exploring new restaurants, and experimenting with new recipes. 

As someone who came into the program with a business background, I'm always happy to share what I've learned along the way, whether that's about choosing classes, navigating internship recruiting, or making the most of the MSIM experience. Feel free to reach out with any questions, or even if you just need tips for surviving your first Midwest winter!