Akash Pandey's journey at Wichita State University is one of resilience, growth, and determination. Pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics with an expected graduation in May 2025, Akash took a leap of faith moving from India to the United States. "As an international student, I faced cultural adjustments, financial pressures, and the rigor of managing academics alongside work. These experiences were not just obstacles—they became the building blocks of my resilience and professional growth."

His journey at Wichita State began humbly in September 2023 with a role as a parking worker at Charles Koch Arena. Akash explains, "this role was far from the career I had envisioned, but it gave me my first exposure to the work culture in the U.S. and taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. It instilled a sense of pride in earning my way forward and motivated me to find roles that better aligned with my aspirations."

Wichita State's emphasis on applied learning played a crucial role in Akash’s professional development. He actively sought positions that allowed him to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings. In May 2024, he became a Marketing and Business Analyst Graduate Assistant for the College of Applied Studies. "As a Marketing and Business Analyst, I have been working on developing marketing strategies and managing social media to promote college initiatives, conducting data analysis to support decision-making and strategic planning, and collaborating with departments to ensure cohesive branding and messaging. This role helped me refine my skills in marketing, analytics, and leadership while contributing to impactful projects."

During the Summer 2024 semester, Akash expanded his experience as a Graduate Assistant at the Center for Entrepreneurship, focusing on marketing, event planning, and operational support. This position allowed him to assist students and faculty in turning innovative ideas into impactful ventures. These roles helped him bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing him for real-world industry challenges.

In September 2024, he accepted a position as a Data Analyst for the Department of Sports Management. "My internship was a turning point, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience in analyzing and cleaning large datasets to extract actionable insights, creating dynamic dashboards in Tableau for strategic decision-making, and strengthening my technical proficiency in data visualization and reporting."

Beyond academics and work, Akash is deeply committed to volunteerism and community involvement. "Volunteerism has always been a passion of mine, and I have been fortunate to contribute to communities in both India and the U.S." Akash's initiatives include working as a United Nations-certified child rights activist in India, serving as president of the Hindu Association of Wichita, and holding the Director of Finance position for the Student Association of Business Analytics. He has also been involved in AHINSA, coordinating prayer sessions and cultural programs to promote diversity and inclusion. "These experiences have not only enriched my perspective but also strengthened my leadership, event management, and advocacy skills."

Navigating life as an international student has presented challenges, but Akash has embraced them as opportunities for growth. "The life of an international student is a journey of resilience. Balancing academics, work, and personal growth while navigating a new culture wasn’t easy. Starting as a parking worker and progressing to roles like Marketing Analyst and Data Analyst reflects my determination to seize every opportunity and turn challenges into stepping stones."

He credits the Shocker Career Accelerator office for being instrumental in his professional development. "The Shocker Career Accelerator office has been pivotal in my professional development. Their resume-building workshops, career fairs, and one-on-one guidance helped me secure internships and prepare for the U.S. job market. These resources have been invaluable in shaping my career path."

Looking ahead, Akash says, "my future aspirations center around becoming a proficient Data/Business Analyst, leveraging my skills to solve complex problems and drive data-driven decision-making. I am passionate about turning raw data into actionable insights that can empower organizations to achieve their goals. Through my academic journey in Business Analytics at Wichita State University and hands-on experiences, I have developed a strong foundation in analytics, visualization, and strategic thinking. My ultimate purpose is to create meaningful impact—whether it’s optimizing business processes, enhancing customer experiences, or contributing to larger societal advancements through innovative data solutions. I am committed to continuous learning and growth, aiming to refine my expertise and make a lasting difference in the world of analytics and beyond."

Akash’s journey is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of applied learning. From his first job as a parking worker to his current role as a Data Analyst, he has embraced every challenge and opportunity with determination. His experiences at WSU have shaped him into a well-rounded professional, ready to make a meaningful impact in the world of analytics.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.