Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Shawn Patel! We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
Tell us a bit about your backstory and what led you down your current life path.
I grew up in the northwest Chicago suburbs and studied Engineering Physics at UIUC, where I also worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on energy sustainability projects and facility energy data analysis. My interest in applying data to real-world problems led me to complete a Data Science Master’s at UIUC. After graduating, I worked in Chicago in AdTech platform support, gaining experience with large datasets and SQL reporting. Over time, I realized I wanted to focus more directly on analytics and data-driven decision-making, which is why I’m pursuing opportunities like this volunteer role as I build my career in data analytics.
What or who inspired you to pursue your major/career?
I’ve always been fascinated by how the world works, which naturally drew me to physics growing up. My curiosity was sparked further by great science communicators and educational YouTube channels that made complex ideas feel accessible and exciting. I enjoyed studying physics in school, but I eventually realized that a career in academia was not the right fit for me. While looking for fulfilling career paths that I could apply my education to, I discovered the Data Science master’s program at my university. I was excited about how it brought together elements from many of the subjects I enjoyed — statistics, math, coding, and even physics — into a field with endless practical applications. The ability to uncover hidden insights and inform real-world decisions inspired me to pursue this career path in data analytics.
What is one thing you are proud of achieving in your life?
I take pride in the relationships I’ve built with the people in my life. Over the years, I’ve found a close group of friends who genuinely support one another. I value being someone they can rely on for support and strive to be genuine, empathetic, and honest in my interactions. Sometimes that means having healthy, open conversations and being willing to really listen. These friendships remind me of the importance of community and how much we can grow when we have the trust, mutual support, and confidence of the people around us.
What keeps you motivated? What maintains your passion for and commitment to the work you are doing?
I stay focused by creating structured plans for what I want to accomplish and setting small, achievable goals along the way. I’m also driven by the opportunity to keep learning, whether it’s gaining new technical skills, exploring different perspectives, or finding better ways to solve problems. Beyond personal growth, I’m most fulfilled when my work helps others or contributes to something meaningful. Seeing the results of my efforts, especially when they make a positive impact, reinforces my motivation and keeps me committed to improving each day.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I feel lucky to have a supportive group of friends and family in my life. I am particularly grateful to my older sisters for the selfless mentorship they have given me, lifting me up, helping me see my potential, and offering guidance when I’ve faced uncertain circumstances. Whether it’s navigating personal challenges or making decisions about my career path, they’ve shared advice grounded in their own experiences while encouraging me to find my own direction. No matter what happens, I know I can count on their understanding and encouragement. This shapes how I approach challenges and how I try to support others in return.
Share one professional development goal and one personal goal you have for the upcoming year.
Professional goal: I aim to work in data visualization and analytics within an industry I’m passionate about, gaining more experience to narrow my interests. I plan to strengthen my skills in Power BI and SQL, pursue a Power BI certification, and continue building confidence in collaboration, communication, and learning from diverse teammates.
Personal goal: I want to build more consistency and balance in my life, prioritizing learning, career growth, health, relationships, and hobbies. I’m also focusing on being patient with myself as I navigate career changes. Volunteering with E.R.E. supports these goals by helping me grow professionally while maintaining balance.
Why did you choose to be a volunteer for Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?
The volunteer opportunity at E.R.E. drew my interest because I wish to apply and further develop my analytical skills while contributing to a cause that matters. I’m passionate about helping people who have the potential to live fulfilling, purpose-driven lives but haven’t been fully supported by society, especially those who are neurodivergent or underserved. E.R.E.’s mission resonates with me as I want people to feel understood and supported as they pursue their goals. I’m also pursuing a career shift into data analytics, and this role would allow me to apply and strengthen my analytical skills in a meaningful way. I’m eager to prove myself by contributing high-quality, data-driven insights that help E.R.E. expand its impact and better support students.
What about the Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speaks most to you and why?
E.R.E’s purpose and values resonate deeply with me because I believe everyone comes into this world with unique circumstances, backgrounds, personalities, and needs. Yet, we all share the common experience of learning and growing throughout life. I feel that everyone has the potential to live a purposeful and fulfilling life if they are given equitable opportunities and personalized support along the way. Therefore, helping others on their path through life fulfills me as I continue on my own path. E.R.E.’s commitment to empathy, equal access to education, inclusive teaching practices, comprehensive educational support, and partnership aligns strongly with these beliefs. To me, helping others realize their potential and feel supported in their journey is one of the most meaningful ways to make a positive impact, and E.R.E.’s mission embodies that beautifully.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy bouldering, watching movies with my roommates, playing guitar, and spending time with my friends and family. While I am not a pet owner myself, I am a proud pet uncle of 2 dogs and 3 cats whom I love to play with and look after. I also love spending time with my nieces whenever I can, as it’s always grounding and fun. During the winter, I try to go on snowboarding trips when the opportunity comes up, and I’m usually up for any trip that involves the mountains. Being outdoors and staying active helps me recharge and keep a healthy balance.
Tell about an amazing trip you took. Where did you go and what did you enjoy most?
I recently spent about ten days in Tokyo and a week in Osaka, with day trips to Nara and Kyoto. It was a long-planned trip with close friends, and each day brought something new—guided tours of Kyoto’s shrines, a tea ceremony, exploring Osaka by bike, and wandering Tokyo’s neighborhoods. One highlight was meeting a local in Osaka and having a genuine conversation entirely through Google Translate. If I return to Japan, I’d love to snowboard in Hokkaido or hike in Japan’s mountain regions.
