Ali Fayyaz

I'm a PhD student in Biophysics. I'm originally from Iran and have successfully gone through all 4 stages of culture shock! I enjoy learning about different cultures and perspectives, speak 3 languages, am familiar with 2 more, and plan to learn a new one this year. 
 

Anna Grigoreva

Originally from Russia, I am currently pursuing a PhD in International Education Policy, focusing on the role of AI in international students' integration. I am a member of the International Student Government Board at UMD and love meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures

Anupama Sharma

I am a Master's student in Data Science. I am from Rajasthan, India. I hold a Bachelor of Engineering and a Master of Science from BITS Pilani. I’m a member of the International Student Council at UMD. 
 

Brandon Colelough

I’m from Australia and am a Ph.D. candidate in Computer Science and a Fulbright scholar specializing in Explainable AI through neuro-symbolic approaches, with a blended foundation in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and Software Development. I’m enthusiastic about advancing technology and contributing to impactful solutions

Chigozie Udeogu

I’m pursuing a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering. I am originally from Nigeria and completed my master’s degree in South Korea, where I worked on machine learning applications in electric vehicles. I enjoy meeting new people, exploring new places, and cultures. On campus. I serve as president of the International Student Council. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.

Chidiebere Udenze

I obtained both my B.Eng. and M.Eng. degrees in Nigeria before beginning my Ph.D. at the University of Maryland (UMD). I am currently pursuing research in photonics within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

“Christy” Huiran Mao

I'm an undergraduate student majoring in Agricultural and Resource Economics and Math. I'm from China. Outside of class, I'm a Terp guide and a member of the Changemaker Pathway cohort.

Elizabeth “Jwi” Brown

I’m Korean American. I've moved 10 times across the USA, South Korea, and Singapore, so you can say I’ve been around! I recently graduated with a bachelor’s in International Relations and Sociology and am completing a master’s degree. I love meeting new people and learning about their cultures and lives. I can’t wait to hear your stories :)

Fatima Zhao

I am an undergraduate student majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I am from China and Mali. I love traveling and meeting new people, and I am excited to help new international students get oriented and feel welcome on campus.

Liza Pon

I’m an international undergraduate student from Cambodia, majoring in Accounting and Finance. One of my favorite summer activities is getting ice cream after playing mini golf. I hope you have a lot of fun and gain great experiences here. Go Terp

Nikhila Kuchimanchi

I am a graduate student studying Applied Machine Learning. I was born in India and moved to the United States when I was five, and since then, I’ve lived in five states. I returned to India for my undergraduate studies before coming back to the U.S. for graduate school, which has given me a unique perspective on adapting to new environments. I’m excited to welcome new students and help them settle in!

Parsa Hosseini

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

I am an experienced Project Manager from Ghana, completing a Master’s degree in Real Estate and Development. I enjoy meeting new people, networking with them, learning about their culture, and exploring nature and new places. I believe there is more to giving than to receiving; just as I was helped to settle in well at UMD, I love helping incoming students in the same way. 

Rishi Rajesh Mehta

I'm pursuing a Master's of Engineering in Robotics. I grew up in the state of Gujarat in India, earned my undergrad in Electronics and Communication from Gujarat Technological University, and conducted research at IIT Gandhinagar. I can't wait to meet you all; if you ever want to talk robots, control systems, or the best food spots in College Park, I'm your person!

Sameer Saxena

Originally from India, I’m completing a M.S. in Information Systems at the Robert H. Smith School of Business. I completed my B. Tech in Computer Science Engineering at Amity University. I currently serve as VP of Events and Operations for SMISA. Outside of academics, I enjoy exploring the D.C. area, connecting with fellow international students, and helping others navigate the transition to life at UMD. 

Semileniola Baernice Salako

Originally from Nigeria, I am pursuing a Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity. I am passionate about building a career in cybersecurity with a focus on cloud and network security. As an international student, I understand the challenges of adjusting to a new academic and cultural environment, and I am always happy to support and guide others through the process 

Sondos Abdelhafeez

I am from Egypt and am pursuing a Ph.D. in the Biological Sciences Department, with a concentration in Computational Biology. I enjoy learning about different cultures (especially when it comes to food!). Looking forward to meeting you all! 

Truc “Bambi” Quan Dao

I am an undergraduate student from Vietnam, majoring in Environmental Science and Technology. On campus, I enjoy exploring diverse cultures and connecting them to my passion for environmental sustainability through my work with the Global Terps for a Greener Future Collective. I also serve as a Terp Guide for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. 

Viraj Sanjay Kurhade

Originally from Pune, India, I am pursuing a Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity. On campus, I work as an Intramural Sports Official and am actively involved in the esports community. My favorite activities on campus are rock-climbing at Eppley, volunteering at community events, and taking walks around campus. 

Yipeng Lu

I am an undergraduate student majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I am originally from China, but I moved to the U.S. when I was 14. I enjoy staying active, whether it’s working out, going camping, or playing sports. My favorite sport is badminton, and I am part of the UMD Badminton Club. I also serve on the International Student Council. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!