From Hassan to Chicago: How Mohammed Wasim Built a Data Career in the U.S.
Discover how Mohamed Wasim moved from Hassan, India, to build a successful data career in the U.S.—from financing his master’s with Prodigy Finance to networking, job hunting, and mentoring internatio
When Mohammed Wasim left his hometown of Hassan in southern India, he carried more than luggage. He carried ambition, responsibility and the hopes of a middle-class family. He was determined to build a life and career in the United States.
Today, he is a Senior Data Insights Analyst at Molson Coors Beverage Company. He lives in Milwaukee and mentors hundreds of international students navigating their own study-abroad journeys.
His path was not a straight line.
In a recent episode of the International Student Podcast by Prodigy Finance, Wasim shared his experiences. He spoke about self-doubt, sending out hundreds of job applications, managing finances, navigating the U.S. visa system and finding a role he loves.
This is his journey and the lessons he hopes future students will carry forward.
Growing up in Hassan and discovering a passion for data science
Wasim grew up in a small city in Karnataka and later moved to Bangalore to study computer science at Presidency University. At first, studying abroad wasn’t part of his plans. A single course changed that.
“In my fifth semester, we had a machine learning course taught by a professor who studied at Stanford and Harvard. Interacting with him sparked my interest in the U.S. education system.”
He soon realised the United States was a global centre for data science. It offered access to innovation, strong industry networks and real-world experience.
In 2021, he boarded a flight to Chicago to begin his Master’s in Data Science at the Illinois Institute of Technology.
The shock of landing in the U.S. and adjusting as an introvert
Moving abroad means adapting to a new academic, cultural and social environment. Wasim felt the shift immediately.
“I’m an introvert, so connecting with people was hard. Back home, you don’t walk up to strangers and start conversations. In the U.S., that level of interaction is common and it matters.”
Networking didn’t feel natural to him. He also knew he couldn’t let fear hold him back.
“I spent a lot of money to study here. My parents had dreams for me. I had to get out of my comfort zone.”
He started small. He attended campus events, spoke to classmates, reached out to alumni and slowly built confidence. Over time he became an active community member.
He:
Joined on-campus organisations
Participated in student elections
Supported student events
Mentored new students
Worked closely with the career services team
Through this journey, he found his voice.
“Your network is your net worth. The more visible you are, the more opportunities come your way.”
The financial hurdle: financing a master’s abroad
For many international students, the biggest worry is funding. Wasim felt that pressure too.
“Loans were scary. In India, banks asked for collateral. I was worried.”
During his research, he came across Prodigy Finance.
“I googled education loans and found Prodigy Finance. The process was simple. I uploaded my university details and got approved. Honestly, there’s a 50 percent chance that if I’m here today, it’s because of Prodigy.”
Prodigy Finance’s no-collateral model, fast approval and direct disbursement to the university made the transition easier.
“When I arrived in the U.S., they paid my fees directly to the university. That was a huge relief.”
The job search: hundreds of applications, anxiety and a breakthrough
After completing his coursework, Wasim entered one of the most challenging parts of the U.S. journey: the job search.
His experience mirrors that of thousands of international graduates.
He didn’t receive a full-time offer from his internship because of visa constraints.He applied for three months straight and sent out hundreds of applications.He battled frustration, uncertainty and financial pressure.
“Every day you’re burning money. Every day you get anxious. Desperation doesn’t land you a job. Consistency does.”
His breakthrough came through LinkedIn.
He commented on a hiring manager’s post. She replied. They spoke. He interviewed.He got hired.
“I realised that job portals alone won’t work. Connecting with hiring managers, alumni and recruiters helps you stand out.”
Today he continues to receive messages from recruiters weekly.
“It’s not about what you know. It’s about who knows what you know.”
Navigating OPT, the job market and the H-1B reality
The visa process is one of the most stressful stages for international students. Wasim remembers the pressure clearly.
He applied for OPT before graduation.He researched companies that sponsor H-1B visas.He planned his job search around immigration timelines.
“Every F-1 student feels this fear. The key is planning. Apply early, research sponsorship trends and understand the visa rules.”
His strategy helped him move through each stage with clarity.
Why he now mentors international students
Wasim is widely known on LinkedIn for his practical advice and clear guidance. He mentors two to three students every day, including weekends.
“I struggled alone. No one was there to guide me. If I can help someone avoid that confusion or loneliness, I’ll do it.”
Students reach out with questions such as:
Can you review my résumé?
Why am I not getting interview calls?
How do I network?
How do I stand out in the U.S. job market?
How do I get a data job?
His support has helped hundreds of students feel more confident and prepared.
His advice to students in India dreaming about a master’s abroad
Wasim shares guidance that is simple and realistic.
Understand your “why”
Know your long-term direction and choose a programme that supports it.Start networking early
Reach out to seniors, alumni and professionals even before you move abroad.Be financially prepared
Learn about assistantships, part-time work, scholarships and financing options.Treat your LinkedIn like your personal brand
Share your journey, show your skills and stay visible.Stay patient
“Things will not always go to plan. Trust the process. If you stay consistent, opportunities will come.”
A journey rooted in courage, resilience and giving back
Today, Wasim is much more than his job title. He is a:
Mentor
Community builder
Voice for introverts finding confidence
Reminder that consistency matters
Proof that international students can build meaningful careers in the U.S.
His journey shows what is possible with the right support, strategy and mindset.
Planning your master’s abroad? Prodigy Finance can help
Studying internationally changes your life. Financing it should feel clear and manageable.
Prodigy Finance offers no-collateral education loans to eligible international students pursuing master’s degrees at top universities worldwide.
You can check your eligibility in minutes with no commitment and no impact on your credit score.
