I’m Jugal, the person behind Ascend.
A while ago, I was a software engineer at FamPay, writing code and building products with a solid team back in India.
Fast forward to today, I’m in the US, pursuing my master’s degree in computer science at the University of Illinois, and here’s the part people usually don’t believe: I didn’t pay a single dollar for my college tuition.
Just a combination of strategy, intentional choices, and honest trial and error that worked.
This newsletter is my way of sharing that playbook with you.
I write about:
How to pursue a fully-funded MS in the US
Building your profile from scratch
Networking and cold emailing
Life abroad
All the things I wish I knew before taking this leap
Whether you’re:
Still in college and wondering if MS is right for you
Working in tech and thinking of switching lanes
Or already in the US and figuring out what’s next
You’ll find stories, resources, and weekly letters that make the journey feel less confusing and more doable.
Why subscribe?
Because I’ve been in your shoes—curious, overwhelmed, and looking for real guidance, not recycled advice. This newsletter is what I wish someone had sent me back then.
Hit subscribe and get the unfiltered roadmap to doing your master’s in the US without losing your mind (or your savings).
Let’s figure this out together.
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