Harshal Yeole, Candidate for Vice President of Mason Square Campus
Graduate Degree Program: Master’s student, Data Analytics Engineering, College of Engineering and Computing (full-time student)
Expected Date of Graduation: December 2026
Campus of Academic Department: Fairfax
Campus(es) of Classes, Work, and/or Residence: Fairfax, Mason Square (Arlington)
Biography and Candidate Statement
My name is Harshal Rajendra Yeole, and I am a graduate student in the MS in Data Analytics Engineering program at George Mason University, currently maintaining a 4.0 GPA. I bring a diverse blend of technical expertise, leadership experience, community involvement, and a strong commitment to student advocacy. With a background as a Software Development Engineer, tech startup co-founder, and now an active member of Mason’s graduate community, I am honored to submit my candidacy for the position of Vice President of Mason Square. My journey at Mason has been shaped by a deep desire to support, uplift, and connect students. As a member of the International Student Advisory Board (ISAB), I have had the privilege of representing and advocating for the needs of more than 6,000 international students, collaborating with OIPS and campus offices to improve engagement and inclusion. This role has given me firsthand experience listening to student concerns, understanding the challenges graduate students face, and working collaboratively to create meaningful solutions. Before coming to Mason, I co-founded a technology startup where I managed operations, recruited and mentored interns, engaged with clients, and coordinated multiple projects. This experience taught me how to lead diverse teams, navigate complex responsibilities, and communicate clearly—skills that translate directly into an executive leadership role within GAPSA. My background as a Software Engineer in a fast-paced industry has also strengthened my ability to analyze problems, strategize solutions, and execute with reliability. As Vice President of Mason Square, my goal will be to create a more connected, supportive, and empowering experience for all graduate students. Mason Square brings together students from various programs, cultures, and professional backgrounds. I want to ensure that every student—whether full-time, part-time, online, international, or working—feels represented, heard, and valued. I am committed to promoting transparent communication, increasing engagement opportunities, and ensuring that student voices shape the initiatives brought forward. If elected, I aim to: Strengthen communication channels between students, GAPSA leadership, and university administration. Expand collaborative events and workshops that support academic success, mental well-being, and professional development. Advocate for inclusive policies and resources, ensuring graduate students at Mason Square have equitable access to support and opportunities. Build a welcoming environment where diverse perspectives, cultural identities, and student experiences are acknowledged and celebrated. Mason’s graduate community is full of passion, resilience, and ambition. I am inspired by the possibility of representing such a vibrant population and contributing to initiatives that make a tangible difference in students’ lives. My experiences across leadership, technology, analytics, and student advocacy have prepared me to serve with integrity, empathy, and determination. Thank you for considering my application. I am committed to working hard, listening closely, and representing the Mason Square community with purpose and pride.
Availability and Commitment to the Time and Expectations of the Position
Yes, I am fully able to meet the time commitments and expectations of the Vice President of Mason Square position. I have reviewed the responsibilities of the role, and I am confident in my ability to prioritize GAPSA duties, attend required meetings, participate in initiatives, and remain consistently available to support graduate students throughout the 2025–2026 academic year. For the upcoming year, I anticipate a manageable academic schedule in my MS in Data Analytics Engineering program. I typically balance my coursework effectively and maintain strong time-management habits, as reflected in my 4.0 GPA. I am intentional about organizing my weekly schedule to allow dedicated time for leadership, communication, and student engagement responsibilities. Alongside academics, I am involved in a few roles across campus; however, each of these positions offers flexible hours, and I have experience successfully balancing multiple commitments. I currently serve on the International Student Advisory Board, participate in graduate student engagement initiatives, and hold on-campus roles with structured schedules that I can coordinate around. I am disciplined with planning and have consistently demonstrated reliability in each of these positions. For the 2025–2026 academic year, I expect to maintain open availability on weekdays and evenings, along with flexibility for weekend events when needed. I am committed to being present for GAPSA meetings, events, outreach opportunities, and communication-related responsibilities. I am confident that I can prioritize the Vice President role and give it the leadership, consistency, and dedication it requires. Overall, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve and fully prepared to meet all expectations associated with this position.