Abdullah Alnamlah

My name is Abdullah Alnamlah, I'm an international undergraduate student majoring in Aerospace Engineering. I'm from Saudi Arabia, and I'm excited to get to know all of you! A fun fact about me is that my Family name "Alnamlah" means the ant 🐜 in Arabic. I like to try new things and meet new people, isn't this what studying abroad is all about!!

Anuoluwapo Adesina

Hi! I'm Anuoluwapo, a Ph.D. student in the Communication Department here at UMD. I'm originally from Nigeria. As someone who's recently made the move to the United States, I totally get what it's like to find your feet in a new place. I'm an easy-going person who loves meeting new faces and I'm always happy to lend a hand.

Avirup Das 

Hi, I’m Avirup, a first-year MBA student at the UMD Smith School of Business from India. I have an engineering background and experience in the tech industry, where I focused on providing innovative solutions. I’m passionate about AI and its potential to revolutionize business. Fun fact: I’m an avid traveler, love experimenting with new tech gadgets, and can’t resist a good cup of coffee! Excited to meet and collaborate with everyone during orientation.

Bhavna Kumari

My name is Bhavna Kumari, and I am a graduate student pursuing a Master’s in Software Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Adams University, Kolkata, with a CGPA of 9.06/10. Before starting my master’s, I worked as a backend software developer for 3.5 years, specializing in Java, Spring Boot, AWS. Beyond coding, I have a passion for problem-solving, data analysis, and creativity—I’ve won hackathons, received industry awards, and contributed to the Women in Engineering Society. I’m also a brown belt in martial arts and have earned a distinction in art and craft. I look forward to connecting with new students and sharing experiences that will help them navigate their journey at UMD!

Brandon Colelough

I’m a Ph.D. candidate in Computer Science and Fulbright scholar specializing in Explainable AI through Neuro-symbolic approaches with a blended foundation in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Software Development. I work as an ADF Signals Corps Officer with a proven track record of effective leadership and management core skills able to lead a dynamic range of technically diverse teams. 

I’m enthusiastic about pushing technology forward and contributing to impactful solutions. With a focus on personal and professional growth, I’m accustomed to working in dynamic environments. I’m eager to leverage broad technical skills to address technology's greatest challenges and make a substantial impact.

Chigozie Udeogu

I’m Chigozie Udeogu, a PhD student in Electrical and Computer Engineering. I am originally from Nigeria and had previously completed my master’s studies in South Korea where I worked on machine learning applications in electric vehicles. I enjoy meeting new people, exploring new places and cultures. I also enjoy singing and listening to music, watching movies, going to the gym and cooking. I look forward to meeting and welcoming you. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn. Go Terps!!!

Eden Lee

Hey there! My name is Eden, junior year undergraduate student majoring in Civil and Environmental Engineering. I'm from South Korea, and I can't wait to get to know all of you! II know what it’s like to start a new chapter in a completely different world—exciting, but also a little scary, right? I still have a lot to learn and get used to, but who knows? I might be able to help you too! If you have any questions, concerns or need help please don’t hesitate to reach out :)

Elizabeth “Jwi” Brown

Hello hello!

My name is Jwi and I’m Korean American. I've moved 10 times between the USA, South Korea, and Singapore so you can say I’ve been around ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و
I’m studying International Relations and Sociology. I love meeting new people and learning about their culture and life. I can’t wait to hear your stories :)
If you have any questions or want to chat please don’t be afraid to reach out ᕦ(ò_óˇ)ᕤ

See you around

Fathima-Zhulfaa Zhulficar

I’m Zhulfaa Zhulficar, a PhD student in Chemistry. I’m originally from Sri Lanka and have a strong passion for exploring new places, meeting new people, learning about different cultures, and trying out new cuisines in the kitchen. 

Javier Lorenzo

Hello! My name is Javier, and I am a fifth-year undergraduate student studying mathematics. In my spare time, I love to do gymnastics and watch basketball. Last year, I spent my fall semester in Madrid, Spain, and I had a wonderful experience. Since then, I knew that I wanted to branch out and meet international students here at Maryland. I can't wait to meet you and welcome you to UMD!

Manoj Kumar Bashaboina

Hi! My name is Manoj, and I’m a graduate student at UMD majoring in Data Science. I moved here from India and understand firsthand what it’s like to adjust to a new environment, which is why I’m excited about the opportunity to help incoming international students feel at home. I’m actively involved in the Quantum Computing Club and love meeting new people from different backgrounds. I enjoy sharing experiences, learning about different cultures, and helping others navigate their transition to UMD. I look forward to welcoming new students and making their first days on campus a memorable and smooth experience!

Mawuli Akorli

Hi everyone! My name is Mawuli Akorli, and I’m a graduate student pursuing a Master of Professional Studies in Public Administration at the University of Maryland. I’m originally from Ghana and came to the U.S. as an international student to further my education and explore new opportunities just like you all. The journey so far has had its highs and lows, but it’s been an incredible experience of growth and discovery. I’m here to support you as you begin your own journey—feel free to reach out anytime as you find your footing and navigate life as a student here!

Nehal Fooda

Hi! My name is Nehal, and I’m a third-year Ph.D. student in Computer Engineering. I’m originally from a small, lesser-known city in Egypt—but it’s home, and it shaped who I am today. Outside of academics, I’m into anime, sports, and spending time outdoors—it’s my way of staying balanced. I love meeting new people and sharing stories, so feel free to reach out if you ever want to chat, grab coffee, or just talk about life!

Omarichachukwu Obiorah 

My name is Omarichachukwu, I usually go by Oma, and I'm an international student from Nigeria. I am currently an undergraduate student in Letters and Sciences. My intended major is Mechanical Engineering, I'll be applying to the Clark Engineering School over the summer. I am really excited to meet all the incoming students!!

Parsa Hosseini

My name is Parsa, and I’m a Ph.D. student in Computer Science at the University of Maryland. I’m originally from Iran and completed my undergraduate studies at Sharif University of Technology. I’m always happy to chat—whether it’s about research, campus life, or just some good gossip. Feel free to reach out!

Paul Abonjuah

Hello, I am Paul Abonjuah from Ghana. I am a Project Manager by Profession and have worked in the Real Estate Industry for a few years now. One goal of mine is to contribute to reducing housing deficits in Ghana and Africa at large through the usage of recycled shipment containers. I am currently enrolled in the master's program in Real Estate Development. You can describe me as a versatile person. I desire and aspire to make an impact in our community through volunteering. I have been volunteering with Young at Heart Ghana for the past 12 years, where we go to deprived communities to teach students basic IT skills. I also volunteer with the Do Good Changemakers on campus. I love to cook and dance salsa. I enjoy meeting new people, networking with them, learning about their culture, and exploring nature and new places. I believe there is more in giving than in receiving; just as I was helped to settle in well at UMD, I would love to help future incoming students in the same regard.

Sondos Abdelhafeez

Hi! My name is Sondos and I am from Egypt. I am pursuing my PhD here in the Biological Sciences department, concentrating in Computational Biology. I enjoy learning about different cultures (especially when it comes to food!). Looking forward to meeting you all!

Sophie Bose

My name is Sophie Bose and I'm a Junior majoring in Environmental Science & Policy and Spanish and minoring in Geographic Information Systems. I'm a PG County, Maryland native who did an exchange in Santiago, Chile this past fall. I also currently work as a student assistant at the Education Abroad office, so I feel like I have background knowledge on the process of studying abroad and how it feels to be an international student.

Immersing yourself in a new culture, language, and environment is certainly challenging at times but was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. I hope to help contribute to incoming students feeling the same way about the start of their journey here at the University of Maryland!

Sri Chandraja Reddy Allala

I am an international graduate student pursuing a Master's in Telecommunications Engineering. Originally from India, I completed my undergraduate degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering in 2024. Moving to a new country for higher education has been an exciting journey, filled with new opportunities and experiences—but it also comes with its own set of challenges.  

As someone who has navigated this transition firsthand, I understand the uncertainties that international students may face. That’s why I chose to volunteer as an International Orientation Leader—to offer guidance, share insights, and help make this experience smoother for others. If you ever need support or have questions, feel free to reach out! 

Urmisha Deodhe

Hi! My name is Urmisha Deodhe, and I’m a graduate student pursuing a Master’s in Telecommunications at the University of Maryland. I’m originally from Pune, India, where I completed my undergraduate degree in Instrumentation and Control Engineering. I have a background in network engineering and cloud technologies. I’m known for my lively and outgoing personality, who loves meeting new people and sharing ideas. Can't wait to meet you all and make some amazing memories together at UMD!

Vishal Patil

My name is Vishal Patil, pursuing a masters in Software Engineering. I'm from Mumbai India. I joined UMD in spring 2025 semester. Normally you can find me playing cricket or chess.