Solving Problems Through Data-Driven Insight: Ashwini R Jannu, MSIS ’25
As the Outstanding Graduate Student award-winner, Ashwini R Jannu, MSIS '25, delivers the graduate student speech at the Spring 2025 College of Information Science Convocation.
I enjoy solving problems through data-driven insights and translating those solutions into meaningful business value. Working across both technical and client-facing roles gives me the best of both worlds.
Ashwini R Jannu, who is from Dandeli, Karnataka, India, came to the University of Arizona for her Master of Science in Information Science to “deepen my expertise and take my career to the next level” after holding several successful tech positions in her home country. The College of Information Science Spring 2025 Outstanding Graduate Student, Ashwini encourages students to “be open to discovering your niche.” Learn more about Ashwini's path to and through the MSIS, her career aspirations and her advice to prospective InfoSci master's students in this profile.
What brought you to the University of Arizona to study information science?
Ashwini R Jannu.
After an excellent professional stint in India, I was eager to deepen my expertise and take my career to the next level. The Master's in Information Science stood out for its unique blend of data, technology and business-focused learning. It offered the flexibility, real-world application and global exposure I was looking for. The university’s supportive learning environment and strong industry connections made it the ideal place for me to upskill and grow.
What most interests you in the field of information science?
My primary focus has been at the intersection of data analytics, machine learning and technical sales. I enjoy solving problems through data-driven insights and translating those solutions into meaningful business value. Working across both technical and client-facing roles gives me the best of both worlds.
What do you like best about the Master’s in Information Science?
I particularly enjoyed working on my capstone with University Libraries’ CATalyst Studios, where I analyzed student credit utilization to uncover trends and recommend improvements. Beyond the hands-on learning, what truly stood out was the support from my professors, especially Dr. Greg Chism and Dr. Cristian Román-Palacios, who have been incredibly encouraging throughout the program. Their mentorship, combined with the program’s interdisciplinary approach, created an environment where I felt both challenged and supported in my growth.
What has been your biggest challenge at the College of Information, and how have you overcome that challenge?
My program followed a hybrid structure, and I completed my first year online from India while managing a full-time job. Balancing work responsibilities with academic coursework was initially challenging. However, staying organized, planning ahead and remaining committed to my goals helped me stay on track. That experience built strong time management and self-discipline. I am ever grateful to my supportive parents who have always stood by me.
Ashwini Jannu with her parents.
Tell us about your experience of coming to the U.S. from India.
Adapting to a new academic culture and lifestyle in a different country was a major shift. Everything from learning formats to networking strategies was new to me. I overcame this by staying proactive, asking for help when needed and immersing myself in campus events and communities that helped me feel supported and engaged.
How has your job experience shaped your career aspirations both before and as you’ve moved through the MSIS?
Before moving to the U.S., I had four years of experience in India. I began my professional journey at Great Learning as an AI/machine learning consultant, where I was involved in consultative sales, advising working professionals and C-suite executives on pursuing data science programs. While I was helping others explore the field, I ended up convincing myself to dive deeper into it. That’s when my interest in data science truly began.
I then pursued a postgraduate program in data science and engineering at the Great Lakes Institute of Management, India, which solidified my foundation. Following that, I transitioned into a role as a data analytics consultant at KPMG, where I worked on business development strategies, dashboards and client insights, as well as conducted data science training.
I have also been a freelance data science trainer, having trained thousands of students across various universities in India in tools such as Python, SQL and more.
Wanting to further upskill myself, especially in machine learning, I chose to pursue the MSIS at U of A. Here, I also worked part-time at CATalyst Studios, University of Arizona Libraries, where I trained students on 3D printers and engaged in hands-on problem solving.
My career aspirations lie in roles that blend data analytics, consulting and technology, such as solution engineering, analytics consulting, or product strategy, where I can create meaningful impact using both technical and business skills.
What student organizations or other extracurricular activities are you involved with? Tell us about that experience.
Ashwini Jannu speaks at the Women in Data Science (WiDS) conference in Tucson in March 2025.
I participated in events like TenWest Festival in Tucson, Hack Arizona and the Women in Data Science (WiDS) conference (more on that below). These opportunities allowed me to learn from experts, network with diverse professionals and stay updated on emerging trends in tech and business.
What else has defined your time here in Tucson?
Receiving the College of Information Science Outstanding Graduate Student Award and delivering the graduate student speech at Spring 2025 Convocation were two of the proudest moments of my journey. I also had the opportunity to speak at the WiDS conference held in Tucson in March 2025, which was a rewarding experience that allowed me to share my journey and connect with an inspiring community of data professionals.
What does the “InfoSci experience” mean for you?
It’s been a transformative journey where I’ve grown as a professional and a person. The InfoSci experience gave me the tools and confidence to move beyond my comfort zone, think critically and apply technology to solve real problems. It’s a blend of technical depth, collaboration and meaningful engagement.
Tell us about your interests outside of school.
I enjoy traveling and exploring new places. I’ve solo-traveled across parts of India, which helped me build resilience and independence. I also enjoy discovering new cultures, food and stories through my travels.
What advice do you have for prospective InfoSci students?
Be open to discovering your niche. The College of Information Science offers a lot of interdisciplinary flexibility, whether you're interested in data, design or consulting. Leverage university resources, attend events, connect with peers and professors and don't shy away from taking initiative. Every experience adds to your growth!
Learn more about the Master of Science in Information Science, or explore how you can support students in their academic pursuits to shape the future of information.