Guiding Stars
Heartfelt gratitude to the stars who illuminated my path
There are always those moments in life when you stop and look back, not merely at achievements and your mistakes, but at the constellation of individuals who’ve shaped you and your path. This article is my tribute to those guiding stars, those individuals whose wisdom, encouragement, and friendship have been the bedrock of my growth as a teacher, mentor, and a lifelong learner. Each person mentioned here has left a significant mark, and it is through their collective influence that I continue to strive, share, and inspire.
A note of gratitude
These reflections aren’t exhaustive, nor could they ever be. I’ve shared some stories or incidents in minor detail, yet every individual named here has contributed equally to my journey. I’m profoundly grateful for your presence, guidance, and support.
My Gaia
At the very heart of my journey stands my mum, Sunita. Like Gaia, the Earth goddess, my mum has been the unwavering foundation upon which I’ve built my ambitions. Her steadfast support during my highs and lows has shaped my character and instilled in me the values of perseverance, resilience, and acceptance.
Mum and I, September 2022, celebrating my admission into DePaul University while in Enfield
From comforting me in moments of doubt to celebrating my successes (big and small), she has always been present, watching me, guiding me, and keeping me grounded. I recall those evenings at the kitchen table, surrounded by programming books in my early days of Software Engineering, preparing for certifications and interviews. She would appear with a restorative cup of masala chai, reminding me to persist, yet also to rest. These simple acts of care are cherished far beyond words.
After my father’s passing, her love has been the very ground upon which I stand. Mum, you’re my Gaia, and I’m eternally grateful for your strength.
Lessons in love
Charlotte, though you’re no longer with us, your influence remains woven into the very fabric of my life. Much like Uma’s transformative love for Shankar, your presence sparked a profound change in me. You encouraged me to question deeply and to pursue understanding beyond the surface.
Your patient listening and insightful questions challenged me to think critically and to share knowledge generously. Your belief in my ability to teach planted the seed for this very platform. If you were to be here today, you’d be very proud of me. You always said, “Akshay, you should teach!” These words echo in my heart each time I stand before a class or mentor someone. In every student I guide, I see your spirit reminding me of our last chat…
If you loved me like a man, then live your life like a man. Walk this rock like a man. Keep moving forward through calm and storm, I’ll always be with you Akshay, but in a different form.
—Charlotte Parks, 14 Apr 2020
Charlotte, thank you for being my Uma.
Zooming out
My journey in IT began at Accenture in 2017, where I had the privilege of working under Sajith’s mentorship. Saj, you were the first person to recognise potential in me beyond the 9 to 5 routine. I vividly remember our walks and your advice on “zooming out” and seeing the bigger picture of life and career. You never offered empty reassurances, but instead provided steady encouragement to grow and evolve. Your approach was always patient and insightful, guiding me to question, to seek understanding, and to learn from every experience.
It is never about doing things perfectly, but about learning and evolving along the way.
—Saj
Your words have still stayed with me, shaping my approach to both work and life. Saj, you’ve been more than a mentor; you’ve been my guide, my Mimir.
End credits
I’m a big cinephile and I believe life, much like cinema, is never a solo act. The true magic lies in the collective effort of those who work behind the scenes. My journey has always been shaped by an extraordinary cast of mentors, friends, and supporters, each playing a vital role (big and small) in the stories I share. Everything you see or read here, whether it be projects, ideas, teachings, etc. is the sum of invaluable contributions from those who’ve stood beside me, guiding and encouraging me to step beyond my comfort zone. This section is my version of the end credits.
A heartfelt tribute to those whose names may not always be in the spotlight, but whose impact resonates in every lesson I pass on. And as with any good film, the credits roll long after the story ends. Therefore, this list will continue to grow, as I’m certain there are more brilliant minds and kind souls yet to cross my path.
Note
The following list is in alphabetical order soley for clarity. Every person holds equal importance and has had a significant influence on my life.
Antonio Tovar
Dr. Tovar, I first met you at NLU during the NASA Open Science workshop in 2024, where you were co-leading and generously offered me the opportunity to intern under your guidance at NASA. You’ve always been kind, supportive, a father figure, and a teacher ready with valuable advice and encouragement.
Dr. Tovar with my students at NASA Open Science 2025 after presentations
You were the one who helped my dream of becoming a professor come true, and for that, I’m deeply grateful. Our countless hour-long discussions about teaching and life have been a source of inspiration, and your stories (rich with wisdom and experience) are ones I absolutely cherish! You’ve opened doors for me, provided opportunities to grow, and have always encouraged me to pursue excellence.
Thank you for believing in me, Dr. Tovar!
Cameron Riddell
Cameron, you’ve been a true light and a source of inspiration in my open science and data visualisation journey. Although our conversations have been entirely virtual, your mentorship has bridged timezones. You and your resourceful teachings have offered clarity and encouragement precisely when I needed it most.
Your skills and insights into visualisation, particularly your introduction to Edward Tufte’s work, have honestly reshaped my approach to presenting and interpreting data. Whenever I see a chart or someone asks me for my opinion on how to visualise it, I always think of you and your teachings; often sharing your videos and resources with them. You possess a rare ability to make complex concepts accessible, and your encouragement has helped me grow both as a learner and as a teacher.
Cheers for being such a “legend”, mate!
Fatemeh Taghvaei
Fatemeh, our paths crossed thanks to Dr. Tovar while I was still a student at DePaul and you were teaching at NLU. I was supposed to shadow and learn from you in your Machine Learning class, and that experience became a turning point in my academic career. To me, you’re more than a fellow professor; you’re a mentor, a friend, and perhaps my greatest well-wisher!
Fatemeh attending my graduation ceremony alongside Young, June 2025
I still remember my first day of teaching at the uni. I was nervous and anxious. But you were there, guiding me through the process, attending all my classes, and reminding me of my duties and responsibilities. And besides Young, you were the only other friend who came to my graduation and celebrated till the end. Our conversations about teaching, life, and research have been super duper invaluable for me. Most importantly, you’ve always believed and encouraged me to pursue my dream of earning a PhD from Stanford and for that, I’m very grateful.
I know I give you hard time, Prof. Fatemeh, but I just have one thing to say… Wowwwwwwwwww!
John Komarnicki
John, you’re the force behind Chicago Code and Coffee, a monthly gathering that has become a lifeline for students, job seekers, and professionals in Chicago. I first met you at one of these events during a particularly trying time in my life. I was searching for a distraction and it turned out to be exactly what I needed. It wasn’t just a meet-up, but an open, supportive community that you and your team had fostered with care.
In December 2024, we started having name tags for all the attendees of the Chicago Code and Coffee
January 2025 Chicago Code and Coffee, surprisingly had a lot of people showing up, despite of the cold and windy weather
Chicago Code and Coffee meet-up welcoming Banner at the Capital One cafe, Thanks for Angel and his team for making this happen
Chicago Code and Coffee, February 2025 packed a lot of new faces and familiar ones, all eager to learn and connect
Chicago Code and Coffee team, June 2025. Hyunsu Kim (left), Aarón Ramírez Lezama (left centre), Sameer Mathad (right centre), and John Komarnicki (right)
July 2025 Chicago Code and Coffee started with a smaller audience than usual, but it grew as the day progressed with people coming in from all over the city
Chicago Code and Coffee, July 2025 as the day progressed, more people joined in, creating a vibrant atmosphere of learning and sharing their experiences
August 2025 Chicago Code and Coffee, a lively gathering of some known and new professionals and enthusiasts, all eager to connect and learn from each other
As time passed, our community has grown significantly. I became a volunteer, and more people have found comfort and opportunity through your work. On behalf of everyone who has ever found camaraderie or a new beginning at Chicago Code and Coffee, I’d like to thank you, John. Your efforts have created a space where people truly belong.
You, my friend, will get no strikes!
Judy Cazares
Judy, I first met you in 2024 at ChiPy, and you were among the very first to welcome me into the fold. Our paths crossed yet again at another meet-up, and from there, a genuine friendship blossomed. You’ve always been kind, supportive, and remarkably generous with your time and wisdom, whether the topic is life, career, or something more personal.
What I appreciate the most is your willingness to truly listen and offer advice that is both thoughtful and grounded. I often find myself reflecting on your words surprisingly more than I’ve with anyone else. Our playful banter and jokes are a highlight, yet it is amusing how I always end up taking your advice (sooner or later) to heart. You’ve never questioned my decisions nor tried to steer me forcefully; instead, you’ve been a gentle mentor, guiding me with patience and understanding, and that’s a reminder that mentorship isn’t about following instruction, but about encouragement and trust.
PS: I got a new humidifier!
Madhavi Rege
Madhavi, you’ve been an incredible mentor and a profound influence in my life. Of all the people I’ve worked under, you were perhaps the most critical and impactful. Looking back, I realised that it was under your leadership that I mastered the art of time and work management. Whenever I’m asked how I manage my responsibilities and personal ventures, my answer is always the same: it’s thanks to someone I had the privilege of working with in the past.
You nurtured my ability to think critically, plan with precision, and execute tasks with attention. These qualities still remain with me today and into every project and professional endeavour.
For all your coaching, I’m deeply grateful…
Sameer Gururaj Mathad
Sameer, our friendship began during my final quarters at DePaul while sharing classes, assignments, and academic hurdles. Our friendship has grown into something I truly value. I often tease you about your disciplined approach, but beneath the banter lies a genuine admiration for your steady commitment to hard work.
What I don’t usually say, and perhaps I should more often, is how much I admire your steady, no-bullshit approach to hard work and study. While I often pride myself on being a mentor or a bit of a teacher now and then, there have been moments where I’ve felt more like a student, learning a lesson or two from you. And I for sure, look forward to many more meaningful conversations and moments of learning together.
Shailesh Kewat
Shailesh, you’re a true gentleman and a steadfast pillar of support. I still remember our friendship began during a challenging phase in our lives, filled with late nights revising for tests. Though the results didn’t always reflect our efforts, I gained and scored something far more valuable; a lifelong friend and cherished memories.
You’ve stood by me through both triumphs and trials, especially after I lost my Charlotte. You encouraged me to return to teaching and ensured I had everything I needed to overcome self-doubt. Your wisdom on public speaking and community engagement gave me the courage to build this platform and the confidence I carry today.
Here’s 🍷 to our friendship!
Shilpa Musale
Shilpa, you’ve been my anchor and source of wisdom since my first year at the uni. At a time when I felt isolated and overwhelmed, you made me feel safe and welcomed. Our conversations and your stories have been more than memories; they’ve been life lessons, each filled with quiet wisdom.
You’ve guided me through career decisions and supported me during difficult times. Your presence has been reassuring, whether through a phone call, a message, or a spontaneous invitation for a walk. I’m truly grateful to have found a mentor in you, and I know our bond will only grow stronger.
Young Song
Young, our friendship began in my second quarter at DePaul, where we both took on the challenge of Discrete Structures. From the outset, your curiosity and support stood out, and I’m truly grateful for the friendship we’ve built since then!
Young attending and celebrating our graduation ceremony, June 2025
One memory that remains vivid is my graduation day. My mum wasn’t able to attend nor anyone else, and it could’ve been a lonely milestone. Yet you were there for me and Sameer, arriving early (as usual) and staying through the entire ceremony, from the first moments at seven in the morning until the celebrations ended late in the afternoon. You brought us gifts and, more importantly, your unwavering presence. In a moment that could’ve felt empty, you filled it with warmth and celebration.
And for that… I’m very thankful, Young!