My name is Pranay Julu, and I am an AI Engineer, former student leader, and proud graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills. My journey has been shaped by a deep curiosity for technology, a commitment to public service, and the belief that innovation should create meaningful impact. What began as a quiet interest in computers eventually grew into a passion for using technology to uplift communities—an outlook influenced by both my upbringing and the transformative experiences I had as an international student in the United States.

I grew up in Hyderabad in a home where technology and public service were always part of the atmosphere. My parents, both respected state government employees with strong involvement in public service and politics, showed me what it means to support others and stay connected to the community. I admire that about them.

At the same time, I was the quiet kid who loved spending time exploring computers. I was always curious, always tinkering with tech, but not very comfortable speaking up. I wanted to combine my interest in computer science with the ability to make an impact the way my parents did, but I didn’t yet have the confidence or voice to do that.

Everything started to change when I moved to the United States to pursue my Master’s at California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH).

Finding My Voice on a New Campus

Coming to a new country alone was a huge shift. I didn’t know the culture, I didn’t know anyone, and I didn’t even know what resources existed on campus. For a while, I stayed in my comfort zone, trying to understand everything step by step.

Then I received an email from International Student Services about starting an International Students Club. Something told me to take a chance. I interviewed with Dr. Hamoud Salhi, Associate Dean and Senior International Officer, and that conversation became one of the first moments that pushed me toward real change.

Over time, Dr. Salhi became more than just a faculty advisor—he became a mentor I genuinely looked up to. Together, we worked closely on international student issues, organized initiatives, and helped uplift the international student community at CSUDH. His guidance, support, and trust gave me the confidence to step into leadership and make a real difference on campus.

Slowly, I started connecting with other international students, planning events, and building a small community. For the first time, I wasn’t just showing up. I was actually leading.

The Professors Who Changed Everything

Another major turning point in my Master’s journey was taking Algorithms with Dr. Sahar Hooshmand. During my bachelor’s, algorithms had always felt intimidating, and I almost avoided the class again. But on the very first day, she said something that stayed with me:
“Don’t be scared. Algorithms are a piece of cake when you understand the logic.”

Her teaching style was clear, patient, and incredibly supportive. She encouraged us to participate even if our answers were wrong, which helped me gain a level of confidence I had never had before. I admired her so much that I emailed her asking if I could collaborate, and she offered me roles as both a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant. This experience became the foundation of my Master’s project, where I worked on a DNA matching algorithm and eventually presented our research at a conference at the University of Oklahoma—a milestone I’ll always be proud of.

Another professor who had a big impact on me was Alireza Izaddoost, my Big Data professor. He always took the time to notice the work I did, offered encouragement, and motivated me to push myself further. His humility, support, and positive attitude made a lasting impression, and he helped me see the value of persistence and dedication in my studies. Having mentors like Dr. Sahar and Dr. Izzadoost made my time at CSUDH not just a learning experience, but a transformative journey.

Becoming a Bridge for Students Like Me

As I became more involved on campus, I noticed how many international students struggled with challenges that could easily be solved with the right support or resources. I understood those struggles firsthand.

That motivated me to join ASI (Associated Students, Inc.) as a Board of Director.

In ASI, I advocated for student needs, connected international students with campus departments, and even traveled to the state capitol to lobby for bills that supported California students.
I was also honored with the ASI Presidential Service Award, which meant a lot to me because it reflected the work I put into supporting the campus community.

During this time, I balanced graduate coursework, research, part-time jobs, ASI responsibilities, and leading the international student club. Looking back, I still don’t know how I managed everything, but CSUDH taught me how to stay organized, multitask, and lead with intention.
  

From Student Leader to AI Engineer

Everything I experienced at CSUDH opened doors I never imagined for myself.
My first major step was earning a fellowship with the City of Long Beach as a Business Analyst. There, I worked directly with residents, led civic user research, and helped build tech-driven solutions that improved city services. It was the first time I saw how technology could make a real difference in people’s daily lives.

That experience shaped my path forward.
Today, I’m an AI Engineer at a startup, developing intelligent systems that solve real-world problems and push the boundaries of what technology can do. Every day, I get to combine the skills I built at CSUDH with my passion for innovation and community-focused tech.

How CSUDH Changed Me

When I think about the introverted guy who first stepped onto the CSUDH campus, I barely recognize him. CSUDH didn’t just teach me technical skills. It gave me confidence, mentors who believed in me, leadership opportunities, and the ability to step forward when it mattered.

I came to the U.S. wanting to grow into someone who could help others and stay connected, just like my parents. Today, I feel proud of the person I’ve become.

CSUDH transformed me from a shy computer science student into an AI engineer, a leader, and someone who isn’t afraid to take initiative and make a difference.

To learn more about California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), click here.