Global Graduates - Recognized for Their Service to International Students

In recognition of graduating students who have made a lasting impact on the international student community, ISSS celebrated their achievements and dedication to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment for all. These students exemplify the values of service, advocacy, and global understanding, and we are honored to share their stories. We hope their contributions inspire others to continue building a welcoming community for international students at USF.

Talitha Carlos

Professional Communication, MA - Philippines

Assistant Residence Director (Gillson & Lone Mountain North)

Don’t be afraid to take up space. As an international student, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or even intimidated in a new environment—but always remember that you belong here just as much as anyone else. As long as you’re being respectful and kind, there’s nothing wrong with showing up as your full, authentic self. Embrace who you are and stay grounded in the reason why you began this journey in the first place. Your voice, your presence, and your story matter."

picture of a girl wearing pink jacket and shirt

Aayushi Sett

Masters of Public Health - Mumbai, India

Graduate Student Senate

"Being an international student comes with its own set of challenges, but it also gives you a unique perspective that’s so valuable. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask for help, or put yourself out there.

Find your people—whether that’s through student organizations, events, or just casual coffee chats. When you're far away from home, in an unknown country, community makes all the difference. And don’t underestimate the little wins! Navigating new systems, making friends, or even just figuring out what to order at a café.

Lastly, know that you belong here..."

Phuong Linh Pham

Hospitality Management & Marketing, BSBA - Binh Duong, Vietnam

ISO Guide Fall 2024, VSA Co-Founder/VP/President, SEASA Event Coordinator

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Get involved, ask for help when you need it, and be proud of your background. It might feel scary at first because of the cultural and language barrier, but you’ll grow so much and find your community along the way."

Sasha Knopova

Masters of Law, LLM - Kosice, Slovakia

LLM Representative for SBA

If you have questions, reach out—people are usually happy to help. Take full advantage of the resources available to you, especially those provided by the school... If you’re considering taking the bar exam, plan ahead and choose your courses strategically. And most importantly, enjoy the experience—it will go by faster than you think!"

picture of a girl wearing black jacket and grey shirt

Danica TAn

Psychology, BS - Manila, Philippines

International Student Association Executive Board

Being a part of a student organization was really a great experience for me! I got to meet people with different personalities, and through that experience I got to learn about myself as well. One highlight was definitely Culturescape! I got to meet new people, and reconnect with old friends and alumni. Planning it was chaotic in the best way because we made so many good memories throughout the whole process. "

Axel Ndombasi

Computer Science, BS - Congo Kinshasa

ISSS Student Assistant

My most memorable experience at USF was during my senior year where I was able to attend a soccer tournament with my club soccer team in Irvine. I was one of the most beautiful moments of my life where we could just bond as a team and play a sport we all love. "

Our Previous Global Graduates

Bernadine Bernardino

Professional Communication, Graduate Coordinator for Cultural Centers- Philippines

"As the Graduate Coordinator for Cultural Centers, I had the privilege of mentoring the Cultural-Focus Club, providing guidance and support to enhance their initiatives. I also had the rewarding responsibility of supervising and mentoring our undergraduate student international community intern, who played a key role in organizing and hosting the vibrant Café International events. Furthermore, I had the distinct honor of leading one of the End of the Year Ceremonies, the Latine/x Recognition Ceremony. This role not only allowed me to serve and uplift my fellow international students but also to support cultural-focused organizations, fostering an inclusive environment that promoted a deep sense of belonging and community."

sylvia wu

Professional Communication, CSSA President- China

"During my two years as the president of CSSA, I ensured the organization operated smoothly despite significant challenges. [...] My primary focus was to maintain continuity and stability within the organization, allowing us to continue serving our community effectively. One of the key ways we supported our community was by organizing various events. For instance, during Mid-Autumn Festival, we set up a booth on campus where we distributed free mooncakes and lanterns while promoting traditional Chinese culture and festivals to the broader USF community. [...] To further support new students, we hosted annual orientation sessions tailored specifically for Chinese international students. [...] In addition to events, we managed a dedicated WeChat group for Chinese international students. [...] Through this, we played an active role in helping students transition smoothly into their new environment. At the same time, I guided my team to serve as a vital bridge between the university and Chinese international students."

Vibha Bangalore Venkataramu, MBA - India

Vice President of Event and Community Building for the School of Management (SOM) | Graduate Student Board

"One of the highlights of my role was organizing signature events [that] … provided students with valuable opportunities to unwind, connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, and celebrate cultural diversity."

Emmanuel Abuenyi Odum, MBA - Ghana

GSS Senate Representative (School of Management) | President of GSS : 2023/2024 Academic Year | ISO Guide : Spring 2023

"As a member of the Graduate Student Senate (GSS) finance committee, I played a pivotal role in approving conference funding used by students for their professional development and the establishment of a food pantry at the Sacramento campus."

Minh Tam Tran, Communication Studies - Viet Nam

Events Associate, ISA, from Spring 2023 to Spring 2024

I have taken part in organizing Culturescape, the biggest annual cultural festival at USF. I have also helped carry out plenty of fundraisers for the organization [...]. On top of that, I also initiated and organized events where I took international students out to eat and explore new food around the city."

Honghuai Ke, Computer Science/Math - China

Minister/Event Leader at USFCSSA (Chinese Students & Scholars Association)

"My role has been pivotal in enhancing the life of Chinese international students at USF. [...] I have led several initiatives aimed at providing a robust support system for our community, especially in navigating the complexities of academic and cultural adaptation in a foreign country."

Prakriti Shakya, IDEC - Nepal

ISSS Communications Student Assistant

As a front desk/communications student assistant for ISSS, I've had the opportunities to interact and help answer queries for all the international students at USF [...]I also got to curate and work on the weekly newsletters [...]. This job not only let me use my creativity but also let me contribute to the international community which again I find very satisfying."

Sofia Sarwat Casanova, Finance & Business Analytics - Spain

Student Government Finance Assistant ( for both ASUSF and GSS since august 2022)

"In addition to my responsibilities as the SGFA, I actively pursued initiatives to improve campus life [...] involved creating a resolution to alleviate the financial burden faced by international students seeking internships [...] create a more equitable and supportive campus environment, aligning with the Jesuit values of social justice and inclusivity."