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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 Spring 2026 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!!


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 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

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

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 :)


IOL

Elizabeth ā€œJwiā€ 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 Ł©(ĖŠį—œĖ‹*)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


Manoj Kumar Bashaboina

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!


Parsa Hosseini

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

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

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!


Sri Chandraja Reddy Allala

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! 

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