Kapilan Ramasamy
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About
Kapilan Ramasamy’s interest in data science and technology stems from a passion for building systems that create real-world impact through data, AI, and community-driven innovation. Originally from California, Kapilan pursued opportunities that combined both technical depth and leadership, leading him to Boston University’s MS in Data Science Program at the Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences (CDS). Alongside his graduate studies, he works as a Data Engineer at State Street and serves as a Technical Project Manager at BU Spark!, where he helps lead interdisciplinary student teams working with real clients. His interests span data engineering, AI systems, analytics, and creating initiatives that help students connect industry experience with academic growth.
Tell us a little bit about your background before coming into the MSDS program.
Before joining the MSDS program, I worked as a Data Scientist at VetSnap, where I focused on building practical AI solutions for the veterinary healthcare space. During that experience, I designed and developed domain-specific applications using Azure OpenAI and RAG, including an internal chatbot that improved access to specialized information and supported user engagement. This project is now in use by professionals in the Vet space.
How did you become interested in data science?
It was one of those events in life people have four or five times. I became interested in data science during the fall of my sophomore year in 2022, when ChatGPT was first released. My first time using it completely changed how I thought about the world. I was absolutely astonished by how an AI system could understand any question and generate thoughtful responses with no filter at the time. It was a moment for me. That experience motivated me instantly. The very next day, I went to one of my professors in a research lab and asked how I can change my major to data science immediately.
What drew you to the MSDS program at the Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences?
I chose Boston University because I wanted a program that was both academically rigorous and closely connected to industry. The MSDS program stood out because of its modern curriculum, strong reputation, and hands-on opportunities such as BU Spark. I also saw Boston as an incredible city for growth, with access to leading companies, innovation, and a strong professional network. Moving from California to Boston was a major step, but I knew BU would challenge me in the best way.
What was the most impactful thing you learned while studying through MSDS?
One of the biggest things I learned is that successful data science is not just about building models, but also it is about understanding the people, asking the right questions, and communicating solutions clearly. The program helped me see that technical skills matter most when they are tied to people. That perspective became even clearer through client-facing experiences, where translating complexity into action was just as important as the analysis itself.
What advice would you give to prospective students interested in an MSDS program?
My biggest advice would be to take initiative early and say yes to opportunities. Attend events, meet classmates, speak with professors, and get involved in hands-on experiences like Spark or internships. Some of the most valuable parts of graduate school happen outside the classroom. Also, do not compare your timeline to others and instead focus on your own consistent growth, and trust that progress compounds over time.
In what field have you decided to utilize your data science knowledge?
I’ve decided to apply my data science knowledge in fields where analytics can drive decisions at scale, particularly finance and mission-driven organizations. During my time in the MSDS program, I had the opportunity to work as a Data Engineer at State Street, where I supported large-scale data systems within a global financial institution.
I also served as a Technical Project Manager with BU Spark, where I helped lead student consulting teams working with real clients on analytics and technology challenges. That experience showed me how data science can create impact beyond traditional corporate settings by helping organizations solve meaningful real-world problems.
Moving forward, I hope to continue working at the intersection of data, strategy, and leadership using data science to solve complex business challenges, and create measurable impact.