How Bradley Helped Me Turn My Idea into an AI Startup

When I decided to pursue my master’s degree in the United States, I wasn’t starting from scratch. I already had nearly a decade of experience in software quality engineering, automation, and technology consulting, working with global organizations including Infosys, Publicis Sapient, Deloitte, and Mercer in India. Originally from Delhi, I had built a strong technical foundation, but I wanted to expand my skills beyond engineering into product development, innovation, and business strategy. That’s what led me to Bradley’s Master of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS) program.

One of the biggest reasons I chose Bradley was its unique combination of technology and business. The CIS curriculum strengthened my technical expertise while giving me hands-on experience in project management, business analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and product development. Rather than simply learning concepts, I applied them through real-world projects, collaborated with classmates from diverse backgrounds, and learned from faculty members who were genuinely invested in my success.

Some of my most meaningful experiences happened outside the classroom. Through Bradley’s Big Idea and Social Impact competitions, I transformed an idea into a venture. What began as a concept to improve stroke rehabilitation evolved into Rehab Ranger, an AI-powered digital rehabilitation platform that helps stroke survivors continue therapy at home using computer vision, wearable technology, and personalized feedback. Bradley’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and supportive mentors gave me the confidence to take an idea beyond the classroom and begin building a company with real-world impact.

What truly sets Bradley apart is its collaborative culture. Although I came to Bradley through the CIS program, Rehab Ranger grew through support from across the university. I partnered with the Physical Therapy department on a feasibility study, gained valuable clinical insight, and worked with a faculty mentor who helped me better understand the needs of patients and healthcare providers. At the same time, mentors in the Turner School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation guided me through customer discovery, product strategy, market validation, and the process of turning an idea into a business.

That experience showed me that Bradley is much more than a degree program. It’s a community where faculty, mentors, and students work together across disciplines to help you explore new opportunities, solve meaningful problems, and bring your ideas to life.

Professionally, my time at Bradley opened new doors. I transitioned into a technical sales engineering role at TADA while continuing to develop Rehab Ranger through ProtoNest Labs, where I now focus on building AI-powered healthcare solutions. Bradley didn’t just help me earn a master’s degree—it helped me redefine my career.

If you’re considering the CIS program, my advice is simple: Choose a place that will challenge you, support your ambitions, and encourage you to think bigger. At Bradley, you’ll gain technical expertise, develop leadership and business skills, and find mentors who are committed to helping you succeed. That support made all the difference in my journey!

—Rahul Tyagi ’25, MS CIS