STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The digital revolution currently taking place in our world has been significantly fueled by the
advent and development of artificial intelligence. Renowned AI pioneer Andrew Ng famously
likened AI to the "new electricity," capturing its immense potential and profound implications on
our lives. I have always been fascinated by the limitless possibilities that such technologies
present, specifically the ability of AI to exponentially augment the intelligence of machines
through self-learning mechanisms. Inspired by these potentials, I have made a firm decision to
dedicate my career to the exciting and ever-evolving field of artificial intelligence. I am eager to
further my understanding and skills by pursuing a graduate degree in Computer Science,
majoring in AI.

My interest in AI was sparked by a chance visit to a tech fair in Mumbai. Although initially
reluctant, I found myself captivated by the spectacle of cutting-edge technologies and innovative
projects on display. The fair was a turning point in my life, igniting a curiosity about computer
technologies and their boundless possibilities. As a result, I chose to major in B.Sc. IT, a
comprehensive program that offered a holistic approach to learning about various aspects of
technology, including networking, programming languages, and AI.

During my undergraduate studies, I developed a robust foundation in various facets of

information technology. The course's vast curriculum provided me with an in-depth
understanding of Python, one of the primary tools used in data science and machine learning.
With Python's rich ecosystem of libraries and frameworks such as NumPy, Pandas, and
TensorFlow, I had the opportunity to analyze complex data sets, build predictive models, and
extract valuable insights. Another critical learning curve was Core Java, known for its
robustness, platform independence, and wide range of applications. The principles of structured
approach and object-orientation of Java make it a reliable tool for software development.
Moreover, the concept of Business Intelligence appealed to me greatly, as it seamlessly combines
data and AI to facilitate informed decision-making.

One of the highlights of my academic journey was the development of a mobile application for
my final year project. The application integrated the functionalities of a note-making app and a
reminder app, offering a convenient platform for users to manage their tasks, deadlines, and
productivity. The development process provided me with hands-on experience in software
development methodologies, programming languages, and database management. It also helped
me cultivate essential soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and respect for diverse
perspectives.
Upon graduation, I had the chance to work as a Data Analyst at SuccesrHR Tech company. This
role marked my first step into the corporate world, and it was a rich learning experience. I gained
practical skills in data manipulation, analysis, and visualization techniques. The experience also
instilled in me a strong understanding of the importance of data interpretation and insightful
reporting. However, I soon realized the need to broaden my knowledge to pursue a successful
career in the field of AI.

Motivated by this need, I began looking for a program that would provide me with the necessary
skills and knowledge. While India offers numerous AI-related programs, many of these programs
focus on theoretical concepts, lacking real-life projects and applications. Therefore, I expanded
my search to the United States, a global leader in the development of intelligent systems and a
trendsetter in AI technologies. Among the many institutions, Oregon state University stood out as
a pioneer in recognizing the potential of these emerging technologies. The university's
curriculum, which combines academic learning with industrial exposure, and its resources make
it an ideal platform to acquire the relevant skills needed to excel in my chosen field.

Moreover, I am keen to read at the Oregon state University on account of its ground-breaking
work in Computer Science. I hope to work under the guidance of faculty such as Dr. Prasad
Tadepalli and assist him in his work on Collaborative Robotics and Intelligent Systems. Looking
ahead, I envision returning to India after completing my master's degree. The country has
emerged as a global leader in the IT industry, hosting a plethora of successful start-ups,
multinational corporations, and innovative technological solutions. My ambition is to use my
expertise in AI and data science to contribute to this exciting field and eventually establish my
own AI-driven business. I am confident that the valuable industry experience and insights I will
gain from this endeavor will enable me to drive positive change through AI-powered solutions.

However, to turn these dreams into reality, I believe that I need to learn from the best. I am
hopeful that your esteemed institution will provide me with the opportunity to do so. I am
confident of meeting your expectations and making significant contributions to my chosen field
of study. I am prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead and earnestly hope that the
admission committee will appreciate my passion and enthusiasm and consider my application
favorably.

Kunal Parikh
Fall 2024