Congratulations to all of our scholarship recipients! The International Student and Scholar Services Office (ISSS) and the Study Abroad and Away Office (SAA) offer a few different scholarships to students every year. The Louie Barozzi, New Student Global Spartan and Continuing Global Spartan Scholarships. Our office would like to spotlight a few of the recipients of these scholarships, so please get to know them and read more about their story!
An Huynh
Louie Barozzi Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: Vietnam
Major: BA Business Analytics, Senior
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
My biggest accomplishments at SJSU are:
1) Serving as an Orientation Leader to welcome nearly 8,000 new students during the 2023 academic year
2) Being elected Vice President of the GOAL (Generation of Aspiring Leaders) club at SJSU
3) Joining the Business Honors Program and working on two real-world projects
4) Receiving a total of three different scholarships on campus
5) Being selected as an intern for Crown Worldwide Group under the Thompson Global Internship Program
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
Believe in yourself, always learn new things and focus on doing the best you can with things that matter most to you!
Jazmeen Ravendran
New Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: Malaysia
Major: MS Biotechnology
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
Connecting with students from diverse backgrounds during my undergraduate years at SJSU helped me excel both academically and in developing soft skills. Learning from others has always been a trait that motivated me to thrive during my time at SJSU. I believe the international student community at SJSU is incredibly welcoming and consistently provides resources to support one another in their academic journeys abroad.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
My experience at a startup medical device company has taught me to adapt quickly to change. I developed flexibility in implementing rapid solutions to problems, which has helped me navigate my time at SJSU, particularly in my graduate program, where courses are fast-paced and trial and error is key to accomplishing tasks.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
Being an international student is a fun, life-changing journey, so don’t hesitate to explore new places or meet new people. My advice would be to break out of your comfort zone, as this has helped me gain confidence in both my learning experience and career growth in the Bay Area.
Khant Nyar Aung
New Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: Myanmar (Burma)
Major: BS Business Administration
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
Since I am a new transfer student, becoming a Global Spartan Scholar is my greatest accomplishment so far. But, I am still thriving and willing to achieve so much more. SJSU has a lot of resources and events that can help you build the foundation to pursue your dreams.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
I have not been involved in any organizations yet, but I am planning to join Burmese Myanmar Associated Students to stay connected with my Burmese friends and fellow Burmese Students at SJSU. I would like to use the platform to promote our Burmese culture and traditions and also spread awareness about what is happening in Myanmar.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
Being an international student is a fun, life-changing journey, so don’t hesitate to explore new places or meet new people. My advice would be to break out of your comfort zone, as this has helped me gain confidence in both my learning experience and career growth in the Bay Area.
Khushi Chandra
Continuing Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: India
Major: BS Computer Science
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
My greatest accomplishment at SJSU has been excelling both academically and in leadership roles while managing multiple technical and community-oriented projects. As a Resident Advisor, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor students and create a supportive campus community. Academically, I have maintained a high GPA while serving as a grader for Computer Science and Mathematics courses, helping peers succeed in challenging subjects. Additionally, leading the development of technical projects as the Technical Director for the Society of Women Engineers, and volunteering as the SWE++ Chair to teach Python to middle and high school girls, has allowed me to merge my passion for coding with giving back to the community.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
I have been deeply involved in both student organizations and technical roles during my time at SJSU. Currently, I serve as the Technical Director for the Society of Women Engineers, where I manage the organization’s website using technologies like WordPress, React, and JavaScript. In this role, I implemented a membership login system to enhance engagement and oversaw the redesign of key technical aspects. Previously, as the SWE++ Chair, I had the chance to teach Python to middle and high school girls, fostering early interest in STEM fields. Additionally, my role as a Resident Advisor has allowed me to build a close-knit community, and my experience as a grader for Computer Science and Mathematics courses has helped me strengthen my technical foundations and mentor peers academically. These experiences have made my SJSU journey enriching, blending technical growth with leadership and community impact.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
My advice to fellow international students is to actively seek out opportunities that challenge and inspire you, both academically and professionally. Getting involved in student organizations and internships not only helps you build essential skills but also broadens your network. Take advantage of every resource that SJSU has to offer, and don’t be afraid to step into leadership roles. Whether it’s participating in technical projects or student clubs, these experiences will help you grow personally and professionally while making the most of your time at the university.
Mithi Pandey
New Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: India
Major: MS Computer Science
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
During my time as an undergraduate student at SJSU, I created my own major called Interdisciplinary Studies in Research Methods, Computer Science, and Engineering. The process of creating my own major required months long worth of time, multiple meetings with the undergraduate dean, where I proposed and refined my course plan and wrote multiple reflections with the changes designed. I had to carefully select my own courses along with major advisors, ensuring they aligned with my goals. It was a long journey, involving both rejections and acceptances, but I remained determined to make it happen. The experience not only honed my skills in my chosen fields but also taught me the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. I’m glad to have been able to graduate with a major I created by myself at SJSU.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
During my time at SJSU, I’ve had the opportunity to be deeply involved in various organizations and roles that have enriched my experience. I worked at the SRAC for almost 2 years and participated in the Engineering Success Research Community, where I was engaged in research for a year. Currently, I work in the Civil Engineering department, representing the university firsthand every day. Additionally, I’ve been a part of the ISSS peer mentor community for several semesters, helping international students navigate life in the U.S. when they first arrive. I also actively participate in several clubs, including Her Campus, Mosaic, the CS Club, SWE, and the Ceramics Club, and occasionally assist with Civil Engineering-related clubs. Currently, I am also a mentor for the department of Computer Science, where I mentor students in the specific field. These roles have allowed me to build a strong connection with both the campus and its diverse community, fostering growth in both my academic and personal journey.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
My advice to fellow international students is to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with being in a new country. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but remember that you’re not alone. Seek out resources, whether it’s through ISSS, peer mentor programs, or campus organizations that can guide you through this transition. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, build connections, and get involved in clubs or communities that align with your interests. Push yourself a little bit more when it comes to your social battery, and also when you’re missing home. Make sure to surround yourself with lots of friends during the festive season if you’re not visiting home. Most importantly, give yourself time to adjust and grow—you’ll find that this journey, while challenging, will shape you in ways you never imagined.
Nivedita Taneja
New Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: India
Major: MS Software Engineering
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
My greatest accomplishment at SJSU? Well, it wasn’t acing an exam or mastering some technical skill—it was finding my voice in the midst of the whirlwind that is moving to a new country. Let me tell you, it’s no small feat to pack up your life and step into a place where everything feels unfamiliar—from the way the streets curve to how the coffee tastes. But it’s in that beautiful chaos where I discovered something I’ll carry with me forever: resilience.
Every day brought a new challenge—figuring out how to navigate the academic system, making friends when I didn’t know a single soul, and let’s not forget learning to pronounce ‘Paseo de San Antonio’ correctly! Each obstacle was a chance to grow. And grow I did. The connections I made—both with fellow international students who were in the same boat, and local students who offered a glimpse into their world—have been life-changing. These relationships not only helped me see the beauty of diversity, but they’ve shaped me into someone who is more open, more curious, and let’s be honest, a lot more comfortable with uncertainty. At the end of the day, finding my place at SJSU was about finding my place within myself.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
My time at SJSU has been like a buffet—there’s always something to try, and everything leaves a lasting impression. For me, being part of organizations like the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Women in Tech was like that first bite of something you didn’t know you needed, but now can’t live without. These communities gave me a space to meet brilliant women, who not only inspired me to pursue my academic and career goals but also showed me that the only limit is the one you place on yourself.
I’m also proud to be a mentee in the peer mentorship programs, ESCC and iSucceed. Fun fact: asking for help doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re smart! My mentors were there to guide me through course selections, internships, and all the little bumps in between. They turned the overwhelming maze of university life into a manageable, even exciting journey. Being a mentee taught me that it’s okay to reach out and lean on someone else’s experience. In fact, it’s one of the smartest things you can do.
As a volunteer for OneLoveShareCare Foundation, I had the privilege of using my technical skills to support their mission of helping underprivileged students. It’s funny how giving back, especially when you’re far from home, makes you feel grounded in a way nothing else can. Balancing my academics with this work wasn’t always easy, but it was through contributing to something bigger than myself that I found a sense of purpose here. My biggest takeaway? No matter where you are, no matter how new or uncertain the terrain, you have the power to make an impact.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
To my fellow international students: welcome to the adventure of a lifetime! Yes, it might feel more like a rollercoaster than a smooth sail, but trust me, the twists and turns are worth it. My advice? Embrace every challenge like it’s a plot twist in your own personal movie—it’s all part of the growth process. Every new experience, whether it’s figuring out how to tackle a group project or where to buy groceries, will teach you something invaluable: resilience and adaptability.
And don’t be afraid to get involved! Join that club, apply for that internship, take that leap into the unknown. I promise you, stepping out of your comfort zone is where the magic happens. You’re part of a vibrant, global community here at SJSU, and whether you realize it or not, you’re already making your mark. So take a deep breath, dive in, and remember: the world is just waiting for you to show it what you’re made of.
Pranav Abhyankar
Continuing Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: India
Major: BS Engineering Technology – Computer Networks Systems Management
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
I would say my greatest accomplishment during my time at SJSU is learning how to be independent and resilient. The transition from living at home to by myself in an apartment was significant and managing housework along with academics and on campus jobs was challenging. SJSU was a constant source of strength through it all and I learned a lot.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
I am involved with the Machine Learning Club and the Network Engineering Technology Society Club. I have also interned at UL Solutions the past summer and am currently a Project Manager Intern at Aspire Skill Development. My involvement with these organizations has taught me both technical as well as life skills that has impacted all areas of my life including my time at SJSU. I got my internships partly due to the networking opportunities available on campus and the different clubs I could get involved in. I am also currently working on building a resource that would help international students find on campus employment as a part of my internship at Aspire Skills Development.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
My advice to fellow international students would be to network as much as you can. Create a timetable and stick to it as much as possible however do not be disheartened if u cannot. Take it in stride and get back to it as soon as you can. It will certainly be a challenge to find employment in the beginning, either on campus or internships but keep at it, upskill yourself and keep networking along with applying everyday eventually you will find something. Last of all remember that you do not need to go through it all alone, there are plenty of resources available on campus that will support you throughout your journey.
Rutuja Nemane
New Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: India
Major: MS Software Engineering
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
I’d say my greatest accomplishment at SJSU has been building a strong network. By attending various events and information sessions, I’ve connected with people from different backgrounds. As an international student, these connections not only helped me adjust quickly but also made SJSU feel like a home away from home.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
I’m the Chief coordinator of the Events team in ISO-SJSU team. Here, I’m involved in the planning and execution of various events. This role has strengthened my leadership, organizational, and teamwork skills. It has allowed me to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, enriching my experience at SJSU.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
My advice to incoming international students is to make the most of the first few days at SJSU. Attend as many events as you can. It’s a great way to build your network, make new friends, and get familiar with the various clubs and organizations on campus.
Vishal Wareshi
New Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: India
Major: MS Engineering Management
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
Though my journey at SJSU is just beginning, earning the Global Spartan Scholarship is my proudest achievement so far. It inspires me to strive for more as I progress through my academic journey.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
I’ve volunteered with the Hindu Yuva community to help organize events and currently work as an Instructional Student Assistant at the Lucas School of Business. These experiences have allowed me to connect with fellow students, expand my network, and gain valuable insights from professors beyond my coursework.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
My advice to fellow international students is to get involved in at least one campus club or community. This helps you engage in events, meet new people, explore different cultures, and expand your horizons. It can be overwhelming to manage everything, but participating whenever you have time makes the experience more enriching.
Xiangyu Ren
Continuing Student Global Spartan Scholarship Recipient
Home Country: China
Major: MA Geography
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?
My greatest accomplishment during my time at SJSU has been my research work with multidisciplinary teams. As a GIS major, I had the opportunity to collaborate with students and professors from various fields, including biology, meteorology, urban planning, and engineering. SJSU’s inclusive environment fosters broad cooperation, which has been instrumental in our success. When our diverse team achieved high recognition at conferences, this moment made me proud and underscored the value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?
I am fortunate to be the co-founder and treasurer of the GIS & Drone Society, the first professional student club at SJSU dedicated to GIS and Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle technology. Together with my team, I organized events that provided members with opportunities to learn about cutting-edge technology and network with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These events showcased the growing interest among youth in high-tech and geography, motivating me to develop programs that benefit the community and foster a sense of belonging among students with similar interests. The GIS & Drone Society brings together multidisciplinary students with varied backgrounds to share their passions. This achievement would not have been possible without the inclusive and supportive environment at SJSU, which has greatly enriched my experience.
What is your advice/message to fellow international students?
Be bold and embrace new experiences. There is a supportive community here in SJSU. You are amazing, and your unique perspective enriches our campus community.
Sohail Ahmed
Prithvi Pratahkal
For this event we had around 175 attendees! They were able to listen to a group of international graduate students share about their experiences here at SJSU and share any work experience they may have had or experiences searching for a job. Our panelists this year were Bokyung Kang a Counseling & Guidance major from Korea, Nawal Nazar a Nutritional Science major from Kuwait, and Suhaas Teja Vijjiagiri a Computer Science major from India. After the panel, students were able to mingle, network and speak with staff from the Career Center. 
We hosted our first Global Get Together this year! This event was centered around connecting SJSU students who’ve studied abroad with current International Exchange Students from our overseas partner universities. We had over 30 students come and make new friends while playing games, sharing similar global experiences, chatting and having a good time! 
For the past few years, we’ve hosted an International Welcome at the start of the fall semester to welcome in our new and returning international students. This year was our biggest turn out yet with more than 200 people joining in on the fun! This year was an Olympic Games theme where students were split into different teams to battle against each other in various games. Games where: Build a tower using marshmallows and spaghetti, balloon trashcan shooting, ping pong ball passing with spoons, and pick up cups with balloons. 
