Global Graduates - Recognized for Their Service to International Students

My biggest advice to future international students is simple: put yourself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable.

When you move to a new country, it’s easy to stay within your comfort zone, stick with what you know, keep your head down, and focus only on academics. But some of the most valuable parts of the experience come from stepping beyond that. Introduce yourself to people, attend events, join organizations, and take opportunities even if you’re not completely sure you’re ready.

It’s also important to understand that it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Adjusting to a new academic system, culture, and environment takes time. You won’t get everything right immediately, and that’s part of the process. What matters is being willing to learn and keep moving forward.

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 Don't be afraid to put yourself out there! USF and the city has so much to offer and explore. Join an on-campus organization, apply for an internship, be part of the various events the campus and the city puts on. You never know, you might meet some of your most treasured people through these avenues!"

One of my most memorable experiences at USF has been finding a sense of belonging within a community that once felt entirely unfamiliar. Coming to San Francisco as an international student, I arrived carrying not just my belongings, but a quiet uncertainty about where I would fit and how I would be understood. Everything, from the classroom dynamic to everyday conversations, felt new, and at times, isolating."

Being an orientation guide has been more than just a memorable experience — it has been truly impactful. It gave me the chance to give back to a community that supported me during a difficult time and reminded me how meaningful it is to help others feel seen, welcomed, and at home."

The first time that I went to Sausalito, my friends and I drove across the Golden Gate Bridge in a rental car on a brilliant sunny day. Ice cream had never tasted so sweet. We got lost together, made memories, and explored hidden corners in a town that none of us had ever been to, at times quite literally ending up lost on a stranger's stairwell. These friendships and connections that I've made at USF have lasted throughout various ups and downs and expanded my worldview in ways I'd never thought possible."

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."