From chessboards to computer science 

As graduation approaches, Naveen Prabakar (‘26 computer science) is wrapping up more than just a degree. He’s closing out a college experience defined by growth, persistence, and hands-on learning. 

Prabakar is from Hoffman Estates, Illinois, and he chose Iowa State for a mix of practicality and opportunity. Staying within driving distance of home was important, but so was finding a program that could support his goals. 

“Iowa State was close to home, affordable, and had a solid computer science program,” Prabakar said. “It just made sense for me and my family.” 

A passion sparked by problem-solving 

Prabakar’s interest in computer science didn’t begin with coding. Instead, it started with chess. 

“In high school, I was on the chess team, and I loved the problem-solving aspect,” he said. “When I took a computer science class, I realized it was a similar kind of thinking, just applied differently.” 

The early connection turned into a clear direction during his time at Iowa State. A turning point came in his second year while taking a data structures course. 

“That’s where I found my interest in storing data, securing it, and making systems efficient,” Prabakar said. “From there, I knew this was the path I wanted to go down.” 

Classroom to career 

For Prabakar, the transition from classroom learning to real-world experience didn’t feel like a leap, but rather a natural progression.  

One of the most influential classes was his software development course, where he worked on building applications from start to finish. The project required collaboration, problem-solving, and applying multiple coding concepts at once. 

“That class showed me how everything connects,” he said. “It wasn’t just coding anymore. It was planning, working with a team, and building something that works.” 

That experience became a decisive moment, helping him visualize what a future career could look like. It also gave him the confidence to start applying for internships, knowing he already had relevant, hands-on experience. 

“When I got my first internship, it didn’t feel completely new,” Prabakar said. “It felt similar to what I had already experienced.” 

That preparation paid off. Prabakar secured two internships. One with Uline as a database intern and another with Merrill Manufacturing as an AI intern, which he is currently completing remotely. 

Learning through experience 

At Uline, Prabakar worked full-time in person, gaining hands-on experience with database systems. His days included team meetings, project development, and regular communication with mentors. 

“It felt like what you see in a typical 9-to-5 job,” he said. “I learned how important communication is, especially when presenting ideas and working with a team.” 

The experience stood out as a defining moment in his college career. 

“Being in person, working with others, and presenting to executives made everything feel real,” he said. 

In contrast, his current AI internship offers flexibility but comes with its own challenges. 

“Remote work gives you freedom, but it’s also easier to get distracted,” he said. “It taught me a lot about discipline and managing my time.” 

While the structure is different from his first internship, the work itself has pushed him in new ways. In his current role, Prabakar is focused on developing an AI system designed to help users quickly extract information from a company’s internal knowledge base.  

“AI is everywhere now,” Prabakar said. “That internship helped me understand how it connects with databases and why it’s important to keep learning new skills.” 

Unlike the in-person internship, where tasks were often broken into smaller assignments and team-based projects, this role is more independent. He is responsible for managing one main project along with several smaller components within it, requiring strong self-motivation and time management. 

“A lot of it is on me to figure things out,” he said. “It’s less structured, but that’s helped me become more independent and confident in my work.” 

Balancing it all 

Juggling classes and a part-time internship requires careful time management. Prabakar splits his week evenly between school and work, adjusting when needed. 

“It’s about finding balance,” he said. “Sometimes work takes more time, sometimes school does, but you make it work.” 

Support from friends, professors, and his experience as a former computer science tutor also played a key role in his success. 

“I had a strong support system,” he said. “Whether it was classmates or professors, there were always people willing to help.” 

Looking ahead

After graduation, Prabakar plans to return to Uline full-time while pursuing a master’s degree through Georgia Tech’s online program. Long term, he hopes to grow into a leadership or mentorship role. 

“I’d like to guide others the way my mentors helped me,” he said. “And eventually, I’d love to give back to Iowa State in some way.” 

Reflecting on his college experience, Prabakar describes it simply: 

“A roller coaster at the beginning, but smooth sailing at the end,” he said.