The Fusemachines AI Fellowship isn’t just about getting into AI; it’s about personal growth. Through practical projects, intensive training, and mentorship from industry leaders, fellows gain the skills to thrive in AI’s evolving landscape.

In a candid conversation, Pawan shares his insights, reflecting on his journey through the Fusemachines AI Fellowship program. Join us as we dive into Pawan’s experiences, gaining valuable insights and inspiration from his remarkable story of resilience and determination.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background before joining the AI Fellowship program?

– Of course! Before I embarked on my journey with the AI Fellowship program at Fusemachines, my background was rooted in a deep passion for technology and innovation. Growing up, I was always drawn to the world of computers and fascinated by their potential to transform our lives. Pursuing my education in engineering was a natural progression for me, as it allowed me to delve deeper into this exciting field.

During my academic journey, I became increasingly intrigued by the burgeoning field of Artificial Intelligence. The prospect of creating intelligent systems capable of mimicking human cognitive functions ignited a fire within me. I was determined to explore this frontier and contribute to the advancement of AI technology.

Before joining the AI Fellowship program, I had already begun to dabble in AI through self-study and online courses. However, I knew that to truly master this complex discipline, I needed a structured learning environment and hands-on experience. That’s when I discovered the Fusemachines AI Fellowship program – a unique opportunity to immerse myself in AI and gain invaluable insights from industry experts.

What motivated you to apply for the AI Fellowship program initially?

– My motivation to apply for the AI Fellowship program was fueled by several factors. Firstly, I had developed a strong interest in Artificial Intelligence through self-study and online courses. However, I recognized the limitations of theoretical learning and sought an opportunity to apply my knowledge in real-world settings.

The AI Fellowship program offered the perfect blend of structured learning and hands-on experience, providing me with the opportunity to work on meaningful projects under the guidance of industry experts. I was particularly drawn to the program’s emphasis on practical skills development, which I believed would be instrumental in advancing my career in AI.

Additionally, I was inspired by the success stories of past fellows who had transitioned into successful AI professionals after completing the program. Their journeys served as a testament to the program’s effectiveness in preparing individuals for the challenges of the AI industry. I was eager to follow in their footsteps and leverage the resources and support offered by the program to achieve my own career goals in AI.

In summary, my motivation to apply for the AI Fellowship program stemmed from a desire for practical experience, a recognition of the program’s effectiveness in preparing individuals for AI careers, and the opportunity to learn from and be inspired by successful AI professionals who had gone before me.

Could you share with us the challenges you faced during your first attempt at the program, and how did you overcome them?

– During my first attempt at the AI Fellowship program, I encountered several challenges that tested my resolve. One of the main obstacles was underestimating the level of preparation required for the program. Despite my passion for AI and my theoretical understanding of the concepts, I realized that I had not fully grasped the depth and breadth of the material.

Moreover, I found it challenging to balance my academic commitments with the intensive preparation required for the program. Time management became a significant hurdle as I struggled to allocate sufficient time and energy to both my coursework and AI studies.

To overcome these challenges, I adopted a more structured approach to my preparation, focusing on strengthening my weaknesses and refining my time management skills. I sought guidance from mentors and peers who had successfully navigated the program, leveraging their insights to tailor my study plan and prioritize my efforts effectively.

What were the key learnings from your first attempt, and how did you prepare differently for your successful second attempt?

– The key learnings from my first attempt at the AI Fellowship program were instrumental in shaping my approach for the successful second attempt. One of the most important realizations was the need for comprehensive preparation that went beyond theoretical understanding. I recognized that practical application and hands-on experience were essential for mastering the concepts and skills required for success in AI.

To prepare differently for my second attempt, I adopted a more structured and focused approach to my studies. I prioritized practical projects and real-world applications, seeking opportunities to apply my knowledge in meaningful ways. Additionally, I dedicated more time to honing my technical skills and addressing areas of weakness identified during my first attempt.

Moreover, I sought guidance from mentors and peers who had successfully completed the program, leveraging their insights and advice to refine my study plan and strategy. Their mentorship provided invaluable support and guidance, helping me navigate the challenges more effectively.

I embraced a growth mindset, viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth rather than failures. I remained resilient in the face of adversity, staying committed to my goals and continuously striving for improvement.  By prioritizing practical experience, seeking mentorship, and maintaining a growth mindset, I was able to overcome the challenges and achieve success in the AI Fellowship program.

Can you walk us through the moment you found out you were accepted into the program for the second time? What emotions were you experiencing?

– The moment I found out I was accepted into the program for the second time was truly surreal. I vividly remember checking my email, heart pounding with anticipation, and seeing the subject line that read, “Congratulations! You’ve been accepted into the AI Fellowship program.”

A wave of emotions washed over me – relief, joy, and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. It was a validation of the hard work, dedication, and perseverance that had gone into my preparation for the program. All the late nights spent studying, the moments of doubt and uncertainty, and the setbacks along the way suddenly felt worth it.

I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude – to the mentors and peers who had supported me throughout my journey, to the Fusemachines team for believing in my potential, and to myself for never giving up despite the challenges I faced. It was a moment of immense pride and satisfaction, knowing that my determination had paid off and that I was one step closer to realizing my dreams in AI.

In that moment, I felt unstoppable – ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead and to make the most of this incredible opportunity. It was a turning point in my journey, reaffirming my belief in the power of perseverance and the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams.

Now that you’re working as an ML Engineer Associate at Fusemachines, how has the fellowship program prepared you for your current role?

– The fellowship program has played a pivotal role in preparing me for my current role as an ML Engineer Associate at Fusemachines. Firstly, the program provided me with a solid foundation in AI concepts and methodologies, equipping me with the technical skills needed to excel in the field. From machine learning algorithms to deep learning frameworks, the program covered a wide range of topics essential for my role as an ML engineer.

The hands-on projects and real-world applications offered during the program allowed me to put my theoretical knowledge into practice. Working on challenging projects alongside industry experts provided invaluable experience and insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of an ML engineer. I gained practical experience in data preprocessing, model training, evaluation, and deployment, which has proven invaluable in my current role.

Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring students  determined to pursue a career in AI applying for this edition of the fellowship program?

– ! If you’re eager to dive into the world of AI and considering applying for the fellowship program, I’ve got some tips to help you out. First off, make sure you’re comfortable with the basics – things like linear algebra, probability, and statistics. Brush up on those concepts, and don’t forget about basic calculus too.

Since Python is a big part of the program, it’s essential to be fluent in it. Spend some time coding and working on Python projects to get comfortable with the language. Also, remember to prepare for the entrance exam. You’ll need to show off your programming skills in Python, as well as your understanding of math concepts like linear algebra and calculus. Plus, there’ll be some IQ and problem-solving tests thrown in there too.

But remember, your learning doesn’t stop with the program itself. It’s crucial to seek out opportunities to apply your skills in real-world projects and gain practical experience. Look for internships, research opportunities, or personal projects where you can put your AI knowledge into practice and learn from hands-on experience.

Additionally, don’t underestimate the value of mentorship. Finding a mentor who can provide guidance, support, and insights can be incredibly valuable in your journey. Reach out to professionals in the field, network with fellow AI enthusiasts, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice or mentorship opportunities.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the fellowship program and embark on a fulfilling journey in AI. Good luck!

Bottom Line  

As aspiring fellows embark on their own AI journeys, it’s essential to remember that success is not just about academic knowledge but also about practical experience, mentorship, and a willingness to embrace challenges. By staying committed to their goals, seeking out opportunities for growth, and surrounding themselves with a supportive network of mentors and peers, aspiring AI professionals can overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success. 

The Fusemachines AI Fellowship program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to realize their full potential in AI, providing a platform for learning, growth, and professional development. With the right mindset and preparation, aspiring fellows can leverage this program to kickstart their careers in AI and make meaningful contributions to the field.

The post From Setback to Success: The Inspiring Journey of Fusemachines AI Fellow appeared first on Fuse AI.

In line with the company’s mission to democratize AI, the program, launched in 2017, aims to bridge the gap between the demand and supply of AI talent. Featuring courses created by US university professors and leading AI experts, the AI Fellowship Program is one of the best ways to build a strong AI foundation and efficiently enter the AI workforce. 

To learn more about the program, we spoke to Isu Shrestha, a Level III Machine Learning Engineer at Fusemachines who completed the Fellowship Program in December of 2019. Here’s the conversation.

Tell us about your AI journey. How did you become interested in AI?

I spent years working as a musician and a part-time web developer. I was learning about life and myself, and at one point, I decided that I was ready to take the next step. Consequently, I started sketching out 3 fundamental goals that my new direction in life should fulfill. It should be interesting to me (because I want to enjoy my work), I want to be able to provide for my family (financially sustainable), and I want it to have the potential to impact the world in a meaningful way. This is how I came to AI, the intersection of these 3 things.

How did you choose the AI Fellowship Program?

I was part of an earlier program at Fusemachines where 10,000 people were trained on an online course. Luckily, I got selected for this scholarship, and my understanding of the company’s goal, the democratization of AI, became clear and cohesive. I joined the AI Fellowship program to be a part of this mission.

Tell us about your career/academic footing after the program.

There is a lot of math involved in AI, and it is not easy to learn these topics on your own. It is also hard to know what is essential to understand and what is not. Joining the program gave me access to insights from veterans in the field. It gave me a sneak peek at what was to come when I joined the industry. To put it in a nutshell, I got a job at the top AI company in the country. I think that speaks for itself.

How would you describe the program? 

The program was fun, but it was also intense in a significant way. I felt like it was challenging, but in a way that made me want to work harder. There were many concepts that were difficult to understand, but together we learned and understood how they worked. There was a sense of camaraderie and a sense of privilege to be with some of the smartest minds in the country. My favorite course was Machine Learning because that was the one that needed the most discussion and team input. 

How did the AI Fellowship Program prepare you for your career?

It gave me a glimpse of what was to come. It showed me the building blocks of more sophisticated algorithms. I learned how the fundamentals of Machine Learning were created, and so it made my career a lot easier. I have been able to tackle industry problems with consistency.

What do programs like Fusemachines’ AI Fellowship offer to countries like Nepal?

The contribution is immense. This is the answer to Nepal’s brain drain. Most people leave Nepal because there is a lack of opportunity. But programs like the AI Fellowship allow people to enter the field. It is an opportunity and an initial step. What comes after depends on a drive for success. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to build a career in AI?

When you are a baby and try to learn to speak, you copy someone else’s words and learn how to speak. It is the same thing when you grow up and try to play an instrument. You learn how to play someone else’s song before learning how to make one yourself. I would advise someone to copy an ML algorithm. Try to replicate it yourself using code. See how it works. Play with it. This is the way to be prepared for the industry. Understand the basics, and the rest will come to you as though you’re playing with Legos.

The post Conversation with Fusemachines’ AI Fellowship Alumni Isu Shrestha appeared first on Fuse AI.