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Global Perspectives

Global Perspectives celebrates the diverse journeys and voices of MSU international students, scholars, and alumni - stories of challenges and triumphs, resilience and growth, and creating a home away from home. 

Do you know an international student, scholar or alumni with an inspiring story to share? Help us showcase the diverse voices of MSU’s international community by nominating someone today!


Teoman Ekim - Published June 2026

Teoman Ekim, a recent graduate from Istanbul, Turkey, shares about the opportunities he found on campus at MSU, from research and internships to study abroad.

Read his story here.

 

Charitha Gamlath - Published April 2026

Meet Dr. Charitha Gamlath, a J-1 Research Scholar from Sri Lanka. From navigating the pandemic to bridging data-driven research with real human needs, her journey highlights the impact of international education. 

Read her story.

 

Nidal Dajani - Published March 2026

Nidal Dajani shares how his culture and upbringing influenced his journey studying in the U.S. 

Read his story here.

 

Minh Lam Nguyen - Published February 2026

Dr. Minh Lam Nguyen shares his journey finding purpose and belonging in modern mathematics.

Read his story here.

 

Mishthi Kapoor - Published January 2026

Meet Mishthi Kapoor, an international graduate student from India. Discover how getting involved with on-campus organizations and networking has made a lasting impact on her time at MSU and her career opportunities.

Read her story here.

 

Valentina Bongiorno - Published November 2025

Meet Dr. Valentina Bongiorno, a postdoctoral researcher studying chicken behavior to improve animal welfare and create more humane and sustainable farm environments.

Read her story here.

 

Lalitha Hasa Perakam - Published October 2025

Meet Lalitha Hasa Perakam, an international senior from India. Discover how getting involved with on-campus organizations has made a lasting impact on her time at MSU.

Read Lalitha's story here.

Alfdaniels Mabingo - Published September 2025

Alfdaniels Mabingo is a researcher, performer, educator, and international scholar whose work merges indigenous education, decolonial thought, African philosophy, and dance.

Read more about his story. 

Mahak Keswani - Published August 2025

Read about how Mahak Keswani turned challenges into leadership and why her advice for international students is to “expect the unexpected.”

Read Mahak’s story here. 

 

 

Sharif Hossain - Published July 2025

Meet Sharif Hossain, a Spring 2025 graduate from Bangladesh, who shares his journey at MSU, from his initial anxieties to stepping outside of his comfort zone, finding his community and discovering a true sense of belonging.

Read Sharif's story. 

Oluwabusola Ajagbe - Published May 2025

Oluwabusola Ajagbe shares her experiences growing up in both Nigeria and America and her journey as an Intercultural Aide (ICA) and Resident Assistant (RA) at MSU. 

Read Oluwabusola's story.

Agrim Gupta - Published April 2025

Agrim Gupta shares his experiences navigating leadership positions with both the Undergraduate International Indian Student Association (UIISA) and the International Students Association (ISA). 

Read Agrim's story.

Moldir Moldagaliyeva - Published March 2025

Moldir Moldagaliyeva discusses her experiences as a student mother and navigating graduate school while supporting a family.

Read Moldir's story.

Rochisshil Varma - Published February 2025

Rochisshil Varma realized early on after becoming a Spartan that he wanted to be an advocate for international students at MSU. So, from his freshman year until his graduation, he was involved in student organizations, including the undergraduate student government body ASMSU and the International Student Association (ISA).
 
Varma, who graduated in December 2024 with a Bachelor’s in applied engineering sciences, said his time at MSU has been a fulfilling experience.