Onyeche Oche, PhD student in the UI College of Pharmacy, had several admission offers from other pharmacy programs, but chose the University of Iowa after meeting with faculty members, who Oche says, “…saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself.”

Divija Sharma, University of Iowa psychology major, spent the first year of her academic experience in India due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She made the most of her remote learning experience and is thrilled to be on campus this year, involved with student organizations, research, and learning about American football.

The Engaging Across Cultures certificate program creates an opportunity for University of Iowa graduate and professional students to learn more about fostering an intercultural campus while honing skills that will carry into the future workplace. To earn a certificate, participants must complete the introductory session and two elective sessions. Sessions are offered in the fall and spring semesters with some of the sessions being offered each semester.

Shuhui Lin, international student support and engagement coordinator in International Programs and the Division of Student Life, was recently recognized with the University of Iowa Outstanding Staff Award.

Hailing from Yongin, South Korea, Seongsu Kim realized his goal of studying in the United States when he decided to attend the University of Iowa. The economics major is heavily involved in campus activities and is appreciative of the “strong bond” of Hawkeyes. Learn more about his experiences on campus below.

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 first-ever international student affinity graduation recognized international student graduates at the UI. The celebration was held virtually over Zoom and included speakers, individual slide recognition, and a graduation cord.