International Programs, in partnership with the Graduate College, International Student Support and Engagement, and the Tippie College of Business, held an end-of-year event for international students at the University of Iowa on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The event drew a crowd of students, faculty, and staff, all gathered to recognize the achievements and contributions of the university’s global community. 

Shuhui Lin, international education program and student affairs advisor in International Student & Scholar Services, emphasized the importance of acknowledging international students' milestones. 

“I think it is important to celebrate milestones that our international students achieve, whether they are graduating, completing comps, or just finishing their first year of studies here at the University of Iowa,” said Lin. “Some have studied and earned their degree in their second or third language; some contributed to important research, teaching, and the academic mission of the university; and some thrived in co-curricular activities on campus or within their professional journey. It is great to celebrate with them to cheer for their successes!” 

Russ Ganim, associate provost and dean of International Programs, echoed this sentiment. 

“As graduation approaches, it’s undeniably important to celebrate the accomplishments of our international students and scholars,” shared Ganim. “Their strength, patience, and persistence set an inspiring example for us all. Our global Hawkeyes make us a bolder and richer community, and we delight in honoring their innumerable contributions.” 

For many students, the event offered more than just celebration, as it created a sense of home away from home. 

Jane Shange, a PhD candidate from Tanzania, described the event as a needed source of 

connection. 

“These events feel like going back home," Shange said. "It's not easy to connect with other people, and ISSS events are like a second home where I can connect with people and meet new friends. It's everything.” 

Srividya Grama Bhagavan, a PhD candidate from India who is graduating this semester, shared similar feelings. 

“These events remind us, especially in difficult situations, that we are still part of a community and that everybody is there to look out for us," Bhagavan said. "It’s like family away from home. Special thanks to Lin for putting on events like this—it really helps us feel closer to home.” 

Mariana Ruiz Nascimento, a PhD candidate from Brazil and recent recipient of a 1stGen@Iowa award, appreciated the opportunity to reconnect outside of academic pressures. 

“It’s a great opportunity to socialize, to see people from your program, and to meet new people," Nascimento said. "Sometimes we are so focused on our daily activities, assignments, and work that we don’t have time to really see and talk to others.” 

Bhavana Bhat, a PhD student from India, highlighted the sense of encouragement the event provided. 

“It’s really motivating to see that we have such a large, supportive community," Bhat said. "Especially at this time, it’s so important to feel that our accomplishments are acknowledged, appreciated, and celebrated. Graduating is a huge milestone, and it means so much to have it recognized.” 

As the academic year comes to a close, events like these not only honor student achievements but also reinforce the University of Iowa’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for its international community. 

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.