The Indian Community Podcast recently featured an engaging conversation with Rohan Pradna, a dynamic individual whose journey is an inspiring blend of storytelling, technology, and social impact. Hosted by Amit Gupta, the episode delved into Rohan’s transformative experience from being a university student to becoming a job creator.
In This Episode
Rohan Pradyumna is an innovative entrepreneur who recently completed his Master’s at the University of Maryland. Unlike most graduates who step into the job market as seekers, Rohan took a different route—he became a job creator. He is the mastermind behind Travana, a groundbreaking platform that integrates AI with travel, providing unique and memorable experiences for wanderlust-driven adventurers. In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Rohan is a certified storyteller, a dedicated product manager, and an active community volunteer for organizations such as Make a Difference and the Hyderabad Youth Assembly.
The Art and Impact of Storytelling
One of the most intriguing aspects of Rohan’s journey is his certification as a storyteller. He recalls how, during his undergraduate years, he immersed himself in various college clubs, including dramatics and debate. This exposure helped him realize the power of storytelling—not just as a means of communication but as an art form that shapes perceptions and influences people.
Seeking to refine his skills, Rohan pursued an 80-hour storytelling workshop on Udemy in 2019. Through this course, he gained valuable insights into the psychology of storytelling and the essential components that make a narrative compelling. While the certification itself may be from an online platform, Rohan emphasizes that the knowledge he acquired has been invaluable. Today, storytelling remains an integral part of his life and career.
Becoming a Job Creator: The Travana Story
One of the most pressing issues faced by international students in the U.S. is securing employment post-graduation, particularly within the OPT (Optional Practical Training) framework. Many struggle to find jobs, with some even willing to work unpaid internships just to gain experience. Amidst this challenging job market, Rohan took an unconventional route—he founded his own startup, Travana.
Travana leverages artificial intelligence to redefine the travel experience, making it more personalized and seamless. By starting his own company, Rohan not only created opportunities for himself but also for others. He highlights the little-known fact that international students on OPT can establish their own corporations or LLCs, allowing them to be self-employed and sustain their legal status in the U.S.
Navigating the Job Market and the Future of Work
Rohan acknowledges the harsh realities of today’s job market. When he applied to the University of Maryland, the job placement rate was around 97%, with graduates securing packages between $140,000 and $160,000. However, within just two years, the scenario changed dramatically, leaving many graduates struggling to find employment.
Several factors have contributed to this shift, including economic downturns, global uncertainties, and the rapid evolution of technology. Rohan references Yuval Noah Harari, the author of Sapiens, who once stated, “For the first time in history, we don’t know what skills will be relevant in the next 20 years.” This uncertainty adds to the difficulties that fresh graduates face today.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Job Seekers
Rohan’s journey offers valuable lessons for students and aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Embrace Storytelling – Whether in business, interviews, or networking, storytelling is a powerful tool that can help you stand out.
- Consider Entrepreneurship – Instead of relying solely on traditional job-seeking methods, explore self-employment options.
- Stay Informed and Adaptive – The job market is constantly evolving, and it’s essential to stay updated with trends and develop skills that align with future opportunities.
- Utilize Legal Pathways – International students should be aware of options like forming an LLC to maintain their legal status while building a business.
- Navigate Chaos with Resilience – As Rohan points out, no one is going to solve the job crisis overnight. Success comes from persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to create opportunities where they don’t yet exist.
Rohan Pradna’s story is a testament to innovation, adaptability, and determination. In a time when the job market presents numerous challenges, his journey serves as an inspiration for those looking to carve their own path. Whether through storytelling, entrepreneurship, or community engagement, his approach to career-building provides a fresh perspective on what it means to succeed in today’s world.
The Indian Community Podcast will soon be launching a storytelling season, and Rohan will be among the featured guests. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations that celebrate creativity, resilience, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.