International students and scholars recently had an opportunity to learn about campus involvement from current and former leadership team members of the International Student Advisory Board (ISAB). Sponsored by International Student Support & Engagement (ISSE) and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS), the event was held on Friday, August 27, and featured four panel members—each with significant leadership experience in campus student organizations. Shuhui Lin, International Student Support and Engagement Coordinator, moderated the panel.

Earlier this summer, a dozen UI alumni from the Greater Bay Area of China, which includes Hong Kong, Macau, and nine mega cities in Guangdong Province, attended a virtual get-together organized by Tuo (Tony) Liu (BFA ’13). During the event, the group heard news about their alma mater, talked about their current jobs, and shared their cherished UI memories.

University of Iowa student Changhyuk (“Jason”) Yu hoped to incorporate a study abroad experience before his intended graduation in December 2021. COVID-19 travel restrictions led Yu to explore virtual study abroad options and the Summer 2021 course offering titled Virtual International Business in Italy caught his eye. The course offered a chance to learn more about the European Union and it also fulfilled two Tippie graduation requirements: an elective for his finance major and a Tippie RISE component.

An exciting lineup of summer virtual study abroad offerings attracted nearly 100 University of Iowa students. Course topics included international business in Italy, women’s empowerment in the Dominican Republic, and cultures of Spain. After reviewing the virtual study abroad course options, Emily Gumal chose Shakespeare’s England. She found it to be a great experience and would recommend it to other students. Learn more about Gumal’s experience.

Shuwen Li (BS neuroscience ’20) recently made donations to the University of Iowa Department of Biology and the Asian Pacific American Cultural Center Student Fund. “It’s a way to show my appreciation. I also want to contribute to the Hawkeye community as a proud member,” Li reflects on her decision to give back to her alma mater. 

Redwan Bin Abdul Baten, originally from Bangladesh, left his career as a dentist to pursue his PhD in health services and policy at the University of Iowa College of Public Health. His work in resource-poor rural areas of Bangladesh inspired him to further his education in the field of public health with an eye towards improving rural communities at the policy level. While busy with academics, research, and leadership roles on campus, Redwan recently took time to share a few of his University of Iowa experiences.

The International Student Advisory Board (ISAB) was recently recognized by the UI Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with a Diversity Catalyst Award to honor the group’s work in promoting a diverse and inclusive campus community.

First-year student Tejaswini Kannan hasn’t let the COVID pandemic slow her down. Already a leader on campus and involved with on-campus research, Tejaswini has her sights on medical school in the future.

Tidjo Thierry Kuagbenu (BS actuarial science ’04) has enjoyed a successful career in a variety of corporations and locations across the world. He has fond memories of his time at the University of Iowa, including professors that had an impact on his educational experience.

Zhuolun Li, UI student double-majoring in psychology and economics, hails from Kunming, China. He is the current vice president of the Chinese Students and Scholars Association and was also recognized for his contributions as a student employee in the Catlett Hall Market Place.

Paige Ho, double-major in journalism and marketing from Vietnam, calls the University of Iowa her ‘home away from home.’ The honors student is heavily involved on campus through leadership roles in student organizations and student employment. She kindly shared thoughts about her UI experience.

Sydney Nguyen, English and creative writing major from Vietnam, has already made a large impact on campus in just her second year of her undergraduate career. That involvement has helped her to thrive as a student and gain a sense of community at the University of Iowa.