By Urooj
The unsung heroes who show us our strength aren’t all about muscles. The quieter kind of heroism that shows not in their grand gestures but in everyday choices, like showing up even when they’re tired, pushing through self-doubt to start over in a new field, or learning and upskilling, not just for their personal growth, but to lead by example.
Today, as we celebrate those heroes, not just for who they are at home but for the growth they pursue beyond it.
Here’s the story of Sheshu and Pradeep. Two fathers who didn’t let their age, responsibilities, uncertainty, or even their job hold them back. Instead, they chose to upskill, to pivot, and prove that learning never stops.
The decision to return to learning was not easy for Sheshu and Pradeep. Despite all the setbacks, they knew they wanted to charge ahead. Their journeys are a testament to the fact that when fathers choose to learn, the impact transforms their homes, their futures, and their children’s aspirations.
Designing a Better Future: Sheshu’s Journey into User Experience Design
As someone who always took pride in creating seamless user experiences, Sheshu felt the need to evolve past just good design. He wanted to rewire his thinking and grow as a problem solver. That’s when he discovered the Post Graduate Program in User Experience Design (PGP-UXD) from the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin. A program that, in his words, “exceeded expectations.”
The program offered a well-curated blend of theory and practical applications that helped him gain a deep understanding of user-centered design. The curriculum, through thoughtfully designed modules and hands-on assignments, gave him the tools to not just learn UX, but live it. The real-world application of concepts, mentorship by industry experts, and a globally recognised certificate added immense value to his learning experience.
“This program has not only boosted my confidence but has also enabled me to apply the knowledge meaningfully in my work, delivering more thoughtful and effective solutions to my clients.”
He also credits the seamless experience and continued guidance to the mentors who supported him throughout the journey.
Lessons from Parenthood
Beyond the world of design, Sheshu holds the title of Dad close to his heart. As a father of two, he takes immense pride in and enjoys his fatherhood. It has taught him responsibility, selflessness, patience, the importance of being present and encouraging, and the true meaning of unconditional love.
Being a father has been the most fulfilling and happiest role of his life. He cherishes every moment he spends with his kids. From countless sleepless nights to school drop-offs, fulfilling their food cravings, and guiding them through life. His days are filled with moments that demand attention, empathy, and patience. The very qualities he found echoed in his UX journey as well.
“My journey from being single to having children by my side has completely transformed me. Every moment spent with them is precious, filled with love, laughter, and learning.”
Sheshu believes fatherhood and learning are similar. Both require consistency. Both reward presence. And both, in their unique ways, teach you to grow.
Pradeep Patil: Redefining Ambition Through Learning and Fatherhood
Despite spending years building his professional path, Pradeep still craved a challenge.
Learning, for him, was never about just staying relevant. It was a personal mission to redefine what ambition looks like when you are a parent.
Based in Pune and working in the banking sector, he was looking to evolve. That mindset led him to explore the No Code AI and Machine Learning Program (NCAIML) by MIT Professional Education. The program’s depth and flexibility stood out to him.
With a full-time job, a family to look after, and other responsibilities, what helped Pradeep stay the course was the structure, the support, and most importantly, the purpose.
The flexible and self-paced format made learning manageable. He could learn on schedule, revisit concepts, and stay on top of both learning and life. The hands-on projects and real-world case studies gave every hour of learning immediate meaning. Mentorship by industry experts gave him the confidence to apply those learnings with clarity.
Learning with Purpose
The most powerful part of Pradeep’s journey was the shift in mindset that fatherhood brought with it. Fatherhood gave his learning a deeper purpose.
“Before becoming a father, learning was mainly about career growth or staying relevant. But now, it is also about being a role model. Not just what’s in it for me, but what I can pass on”
Whether it is knowledge, discipline, or resilience, he wants his kids to realise that growth never stops. By seeing him study and evolve, Pradeep hopes his kids learn to embrace challenges and stay curious, no matter where they are in life.
His children often see him study, ask what he’s working on, and smile at his answers. Those moments make Pradeep realise he is not just studying for a career shift, but also shaping the mindset that will stay with his kids for life.
Growth Is the Legacy That Lasts
Fatherhood isn’t just about providing. It is about guiding, evolving, and showing up even when the path is uncertain. For Sheshu and Pradeep, upskilling was a part of fulfilling their responsibilities. They proved that learning is not limited by age, role, or routine. It is powered by purpose. And when that purpose is rooted in love, the impact ripples far beyond careers.
This Father’s Day, their stories remind us that the best lessons are lived. So, to every dad chasing growth, know that in choosing to learn, you are not just shaping your future. You are shaping your child’s definition of strength, resilience, and what it means to never stop moving forward.
On this Father’s Day, Pradeep has a message for all dads out there.
“Keep evolving. Your kids aren’t looking for perfection. They’re watching how you handle change, effort, and setbacks. If they see you learning and pushing yourself, they’ll learn to do the same. It’s one of the best gifts we can give them; the mindset that growth is always possible.”
