Rahil Chandra

When did you enroll in the MS-CS on Coursera program? 

I enrolled in the MS-CS in August

Were you in the non-credit version prior to enrolling in the for-credit version? 

I was not non-credit

What was your educational and work experience background before you enrolled in this program? 

I was a film major in undergrad but was learning about coding post-graduation college. Did some high school coding work. Film/digital media background. 

What attracted you to this program in the first place (e.g. faculty, curriculum, performance-based admission, Coursera platform)? 

Performance based admission; Thinking about residential program at CU Boulder; very flexible (likes to work at night); based in Atlanta, GA

Were you considering other alternatives? 

I had look at other masters programs as well. Thought about Georgia Tech (applied to Kennesaw State, Georgia State; Georgia Tech); Did the GT bootcamp

How did you learn/hear about CU Boulder’s MS-CS on Coursera program? 

Through some family friends; thought about Georgia Tech (applied to Kennesaw State, Georgia State; Georgia Tech); Did the GT bootcamp

Can you tell me how the MS-CS on Coursera program fits into your life? 

It works well because I can continue my volunteering work but it feels like the classwork works around my time.

What are some of the other key aspects of your life (work, family, etc). How do you balance it all? 

I have always been someone that follows a schedule; as a result being able to have due dates posted on the assignment makes it easier to plan my dates

What are your favorite parts of the program (e.g. Favorite classes, projects, faculty members, etc.)? 

I have truly enjoyed all the Machine Learning Courses

What do you hope to do with your MS-CS degree? 

I hope to use my degree to build software/apps

Has it already impacted your career in any way?

So far it has

What benefits have you seen? 

More companies have looked at my application and more interviews have been offered to me; Slack channel was very supportive; CFs were very responsive

Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not? 

Yes, because it is a great program with interesting courses and fantastic instructors.

What would you say to a friend or colleague who is considering the program? 

Why think about it? Do it!

What’s 1 tip you have for students who are starting? 

Reach out to your Course Facilitator! They do truly help students. 

Who is successful in the program? 

I learned many skills that I’m successful in during the program

Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Join the office hours as well!

It helps to have any graduate degree to have a basic understanding before