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International Orientation Leaders

International Orientation Leaders (IOLs)  are UMD undergraduate and graduate students who facilitate a support system for new international students. Each semester, IOLs join the ISSS team to welcome students from across the globe to campus and the greater College Park community. IOLs help new students transition into the new academic environment and play a critical role in creating an inclusive campus experience by hosting virtual pre-arrival engagements and leading some activities during the on-campus Welcome Events. 

Meet the Fall 2024 IOLS

This group of leaders from across disciplines and in different stages of their academic careers was selected to facilitate the smooth welcome and onboarding of new International Terps!


Abdullah Alnamlah

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!!


Bhamidipat

Abhinav Bhamidipati

Hello everyone! I'm Abhinav Bhamidipati, a Robotics Graduate student at the University of Maryland, College Park. I completed my undergraduate studies in Mumbai, India. I'm passionate about technology and sports. At UMD, you'll find a vast campus filled with incredible resources and opportunities for growth. There's always something new to discover. I'm always happy to assist and connect with you all, feel free to reach out to me anytime! Let's make the most of our time here together.


IOL

Aryan S Mishra

I am a Robotics graduate student specializing in creating innovative robotic solutions for diverse applications. I actively contribute to bio-imaging and soft robotics research under Dr.Eleonora Tubaldi. I am also a group fitness instructor at the University Recreation and Wellness Center and a valued member of the Testudog and Cubo team of Robotics@Maryland. I have proficiency in coding, adept writing skills, and a passion for soccer demonstrated both on and off the field. As a natural problem solver, I thrive on challenges, consistently pushing my boundaries to achieve excellence. Committed to exploration, I relish opportunities to meet new people and engage in travel.


Brandon Colelough

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 a 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

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!!!


IOL

Chioma Ezeajughi

I’m Chioma Ezeajughi, a master's student in the Department of Kinesiology. I am from Nigeria and studied prosthetics and orthotics during my bachelor's degree in Nigeria. Academic transitioning from one country to another always comes with its initial challenges, and that is why I have volunteered to make you all feel welcome at UMD. Feel free to reach out to me through LinkedIn.
I look forward to meeting you all!


IOL

David Chukwudi Nchekwube

I am a Ph.D. student in Electrical and Computer Engineering. I am Nigerian. Before coming to UMD, I lived in Italy, where I completed my master’s degrees in Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering. I have had the privilege of living in 4 countries and 3 continents. I have visited 28 countries so far. I have a great appreciation for culture and diversity. While a few other hobbies try to compete, my one true hobby, soccer, remains undefeated. :) For any questions, you are most welcome to reach out. I look forward to meeting you all.


dmiitri gudin

Dmiitri Gudin

I was born in Belarus and grew up in Moscow, Russia, where I studied physics at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. I then received a PhD in physics from the University of Notre Dame and am currently working on a PhD in mathematics at UMD. I have lived for short periods of time in countries such as Australia, Japan, and Canada. I run, play chess competitively, and run a hiking group.


Ebenezer Akansah

Ebenezer Akansah

Hello, My name is Ebenezer. I’m a thoughtful and adventurous man from Ghana's Upper East Region. I am currently pursuing a master's degree in Public Administration in the School of Public Policy (SPP) at the University of Maryland (UMD) and while working as a Teaching Assistant in SPP. I am also the Director of Mentorship for the Trust Care Foundation and a Policy Advisor for the Atimatim Community Development Foundation in my home country. I am interested in educational policies, social policies, and international relations.

I value truthfulness, honor, personal growth, and serving others. I have a deep respect for diverse perspectives. I am candid yet kind in his interactions. I cherish  friends and eagerly contribute positivity to their lives. I enjoy traveling, eating delicious food, playing basketball and football, reading, writing, and researching in my free time. I love exploring new and challenging areas that help me continue to grow as a person. Overall, I bring care, curiosity, and integrity to everything he does.
 


IOL

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


enver briceno

Enver Briceno

My name is Enver Briceno. I am from Merida, Venezuela. I hold two bachelor's degrees in education. Last year, I was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to do my TESOL Master's at UMD, and I am about to start my second year in the program. I love helping others and learning new things.


Javier Lorenzo

Javier Lorenzo

Hello! My name is Javier, and I am a fourth-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!


nana ama Kumi

Nana Ama Ohene Kumi

My name is Nana Ama Ohene Kumi. I am a 23-year-old graduate student studying Public Health with a concentration in Environmental Health Sciences. I am from Ghana. In my free time, I like to bake and watch movies. An inspirational quote I like to live by is "wherever you're planted, bloom with grace." Welcome to UMD and all the best!!


penpitcha fah kuram

Penpitcha (Fah) Kuram

Hello! My name is Penpitcha (Fah) Kuram. I'm currently pursuing my master's degree in Geospatial Information Science at the University of Maryland. Originally from Thailand, I first came to the United States in 2018. Initially, I spent a year at a boarding school before being accepted into Arizona State University. Arizona became my home for three years, and then I moved to Maryland to start my master's degree. Adapting to life in a new state and country has been both challenging and rewarding. If you're navigating similar experiences, know I understand and am here to support you as you embark on this exciting journey.


Raunak Singh Chhabra

Raunak Singh Chhabra

Hey there! I'm Raunak Singh Chhabra, an Information Systems student here at UMD. Originally from Mumbai, India, I completed my undergraduate studies in Computer Science. I'm passionate about weight lifting, boxing, and soccer. I'm excited to welcome you to the UMD community! Whether you have questions about academics, campus life, or just want to chat, feel free to reach out (raunak@umd.edu). I can't wait to meet you all and make your transition to UMD as smooth as possible!


Raya Francis

Raya Francis

Hi! My name is Raya. I am a Lebanese PhD student in the Department of Family Science at the School of Public Health. I love engaging with new international students at UMD, sharing experiences and on-campus resources, and supporting newcomers in any way possible! Studying abroad is challenging, but I am here to help!


IOL

Rincy Mariam Thomas

Greetings! I'm Rincy Mariam Thomas, currently undertaking my Master's in Cybersecurity. My undergraduate degree is in Computer Science, and I've gained valuable experience in the field of Cybersecurity. As an International Orientation Leader, my primary objective is to extend a warm welcome to new students joining the diverse UMD community. Throughout my time here, I've had the pleasure of making friends from various cultures and countries, contributing to the richness of our community. My aim is to ensure that all newcomers feel embraced and supported by this wonderful group of individuals. I'm dedicated to assisting you in your journey and would be delighted to meet each and every one of you at UMD!


Saipriya Satyajit

Saipriya Satyajit

Hello!

My name is Sai, and I am from India. I am a graduate student here at UMD doing my PhD in physics! (I use diamonds to detect really tiny magnetic fields :P). As an international student, I know the challenges of moving to a different country, so I volunteered to welcome you all to UMD and share my experiences. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions! I look forward to meeting you all :D


Sean Amon

Sean Amon

Hi I'm Sean, a history major from Rockville, Maryland. In the Spring 2024 semester I studied abroad in Florence, Italy. The experiences I had while abroad and all the cool people I met have shaped me into a more well-rounded person. I plan on getting my masters in education and hope to be a history teacher. In my free time, I enjoy playing hockey, video games, and traveling.


shrestha pal

Shrestha Pal

I’m an incoming second-year PhD student in Statistics in the Department of Mathematics. I hail from Kolkata, India, and completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees there. I love to interact with people and will never say no to food!


Shashank Singh

Shashank Pratap Singh

Hey there ! I'm Shashank, a rising-Junior Undergrad at the University of Maryland, College Park, pursuing Computer Science with a minor in Technology Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation. I'm thrilled at the prospect of helping you navigate this new chapter and ensuring a smooth transition into the vibrant UMD community. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or just want to connect, don't hesitate to reach out. You can find me on LinkedIn by searching "Shashank P Singh" or drop me an email at sps2026@terpmail.umd.edu. Looking forward to meeting you all and making your UMD experience unforgettable!


Taiwo Alawode

Taiwo Alawode

My name is Taiwo Alawode. I am a second-year PhD student in the Department of Global, Environmental and Occupational Health at the School of Public Health. I am from Nigeria.


Thilak Mohan

Thilak Mohan

Hey guys! I'm Thilak Mohan, a master's student in machine learning. I'm from Bangalore, India, and I graduated from VIT Vellore with ECE. Some of my current interests are adulting (yes, I'm aware that sounds whack xD), cooking, biking in Lake Artemesia to recuperate, coding on Kaggle, playing TT, squash, frisbee, and basketball! I'm pretty extroverted, and I love helping people whenever I can. I'd love to help you guys with whatever questions you have with respect to coming to Maryland, UMD, resources on campus, etc. I got a lot of help from my IOL seniors and wanted to help give back to your new students. I highly encourage y'all to reach out to any of us and shout out your questions, we'll do our best to help you. sending lots of love and warm hugs, take care, and I hope to see you soon!


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