Meet The IE Ambassadors
Mission: To bring about an awareness and participating in the globalization of UT Dallas’ community through peer-to-peer student experiences by fostering participation in study abroad through UTD’s Office of International Education events and departmental study abroad efforts.
Aiswarya Saravanan
“I participated in”: API Full Summer Curriculum at University College London in London, U.K -Summer 2024 🇬🇧
“My major is”: Neuroscience with a Minor in Public Health
“Ask me about”: Affiliated Partner Programs and Applications
“My time abroad in London was a transformative experience that allowed me to immerse myself in the UK’s rich history as well as see its modern impact. Throughout my time abroad, I gained friends from all corners of the world and experienced my classes from a more diverse viewpoint. My time abroad shaped my career pathway, broadening my interest in the field of global health. Overall, my experience abroad allowed me to broaden my horizons and experience life firsthand as a resident of the UK.”
Andre Tran
“I participated in”: Exchange Program at National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan – Spring 2024 🇹🇼
“My major is”: Computer Information Systems and Technology
“Ask me about”: Exchange Programs and Adjusting to Life Abroad
“Studying abroad was special for many reasons. It was so rewarding because of its challenges, but because of that, it pushed me to break boundaries and leave my comfort zone, letting me experience things I wouldn’t have imagined. Those adventures that you talk about months later are what make it all worthwhile.”
Annie Nguyen
“I participated in”: Human-Computer Interactions & Technical Communication – 2024 Summer FLSA in Prague, Czech Republic 🇨🇿
“My major is”: Computer Science
“Ask me about”: Gilman Scholarship, IEF Scholarship, Faculty-Led Programs, Studying Abroad as an ECS Major
“I had an amazing time studying abroad thanks to UTD’s partnership with CIEE. I arrived not knowing my cohort, but I returned home with the best of friends that I could ever ask for. I’ve discovered more of my ability in adapting and enjoying myself in a different culture and environment, which is a valuable lesson outside of the classroom.”
Emma Merhar
“I participated in”: Exchange Program at Phillips-University Marburg in Marburg, Germany – Spring 2024 🇩🇪
“My major is”: Psychology
“Ask me about”: Studying Abroad in Germany, FCAF, Applications
“My time abroad consisted of meeting new people from all over the world, learning about new cultures, and reminiscing about the day I had. I feel very fortunate to have participated in this exchange, and I would advise anyone who has even the smallest inkling of taking this opportunity to do so.“
Halimah Nadzaku
“I participated in”: API Full Curriculum at The University of Edinburgh in Scotland – Spring 2023 🏴
“My major is”: Cognitive Science with a concentration in AI and Human Computer Interactions
“Ask me about”: All types of programs, especially Affiliated Partner Programs
“Studying abroad in Scotland was the best decisions of my undergrad. It gave me a new perspective on the world around me, the ability to take time to find myself, and to make wonderful friends. I was able to take courses that interested me while staying on top of my degree plan which is super important. I also thoroughly enjoy traveling and it was so easy to jump from country to country in Europe. I want other students at UTD to know more about study abroad and take advantage of such a great experience!”
Ian Voicu-Comendant
“I participated in”: Exchange program at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan – Spring 2023 🇯🇵
“My major is”: Finance
“Ask me about”: FCAF, adjusting to new cultures, exchange programs
“Studying abroad in Tokyo has easily been the high point of my time in college. The cultural shocks, the language acquisition, and the complete transformation of my way of life are things I will never forget. I’ll never be a student abroad again and if given the chance, I’d do it all over again”
Jerry Gonzalez
“I participated in”: Freud’s Footsteps: Psychology, History, & Culture in Vienna, Austria – FLSA Summer 2024 🇦🇹
“My major is”: Neuroscience
“Ask me about”: Faculty-Led Programs, IEF Scholarship, Adjusting to Life Abroad
“My experience abroad was genuinely unforgettable. I had an amazing time meeting new people, seeing new places, trying new foods, and having new experiences. Having to learn to live on my own while taking classes and exploring the city was an adventure like no other that I can say with certainty I would love to relive again and again. Studying abroad is truly an experience that gives you memories for a lifetime.“
Kayra Ideus
“I participated in”: Exchange Program at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia – Spring 2024 🇦🇺
“My major is”: Marketing and Global Business Double Major
“Ask me about”: Exchange Programs, Applications, FCAF, IEF Scholarship
“Studying abroad has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I have had as a UT Dallas student. I learned so much about marketing and business through an overseas lens. Additionally, I made life-long friendships and grew from the new perspectives of those around me.”
Michelle Bryarly
“I participated in”: Exchange Program at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid in Madrid, Spain – Spring 2024 🇳🇱
“My major is”: Biomedical Engineering
“Ask me about”: Exchange Programs, FCAF, Applications
“Doing a semester abroad in Madrid was the best decision I could have made, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Being immersed in such a vibrant culture helped me grow in ways I never expected, from building true friendships to gaining confidence in adapting to a new environment. I learned so much both in and out of the classroom, and I will always cherish the memories I made from this experience.”
Nicole Iwuala
“I participated in”: Professional & Technical Communication: Florence, Italy – FLSA Maymester 2024 🇮🇹
“My major is”: Computer Science
“Ask me about”: Faculty-Led Programs, Costs, Scholarships
“I had the incredible opportunity to take a Professional and Technical Communication course in Florence, Italy, which marked my first time traveling outside Texas and the U.S. The program provided excellent support, and I was able to explore historic landmarks, nearby cities, and immerse myself in Italian culture. This experience transformed my perspective on life, sparking a passion for adventure and inspiring me to pursue more traveling opportunities to continue broadening my horizons.”
