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 Gilman, Louie Barozzi, New Student Global Spartan and Continuing Global Spartan Scholarships. This year we were able to award a total of 20 scholarships! 

We had a nice award reception where we were able to present certificates to the awardees, connect with each other, and share some stories. We also had two amazing speakers who shared about their journeys and goals. Our first speaker was Kiana Bakrani Balani who was awarded the Global Spartan Scholarship: New Student award and the second speaker was Meera Vyas who was awarded the Global Spartan Scholarship: Continuing Student award.

Our office would like to spotlight a few of the recipients of these scholarships, so please get to know them and at the end we will list all of the scholarship recipients!

Recipient Spotlights

Pranav Abhyankar

Louie Barozzi Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Bangalore, India

Major: BS Computer Engineering

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

My greatest accomplishment at SJSU has been through my role as a Student Ambassador, where I have led over 150 campus tours and assisted thousands of students and families with their admissions questions. Whether helping them at the front desk, responding to emails and phone calls, or counseling them over Zoom, I have been able to guide prospective and incoming students through the admissions process and connect them with the right resources. This experience has strengthened my leadership and communication skills while giving me the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the student community.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

I have been actively involved with International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS), the Indian Students Organization (ISO), and the Hiking Club, where I’ve participated in cultural programming, peer mentoring, and outdoor activities that have helped me connect with students from diverse backgrounds. Beyond campus, my internships have been equally impactful. At Vituity, I had the opportunity to work on AI-driven products that enhanced digital adoption and service delivery, giving me hands-on experience with innovative technologies and how they can improve organizational efficiency. At Aspire, my focus was on community impact, where I contributed to initiatives that supported underserved groups and promoted educational equity. These experiences have helped me bridge technical expertise with social responsibility, reinforcing the importance of using my skills not only for professional growth but also to create a meaningful impact in the community.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

Since childhood, my parents have taken me to international clubs and cultural events in Bangalore such as the Bangalore International Center and Alliance Française, because they wanted me to grow into a well-rounded global citizen. Those experiences helped me appreciate different cultures early on and taught me the importance of empathy, inclusivity, and curiosity. At SJSU, I’ve been able to continue that journey by learning alongside students from all over the world. Global experiences and cross-cultural interactions expand our perspectives, challenge us to adapt, and prepare us to thrive in diverse environments. They not only make us stronger professionals but also more thoughtful individuals who can contribute positively to a connected world.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

My advice to fellow international students is to embrace every opportunity and challenge with an open mind. It can feel overwhelming at first to be far from home, but SJSU offers countless resources and communities to support you. Get involved in student organizations, attend events, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. One very useful habit is to use a digital calendar to plan out your day and create time blocks for studying, projects, and other commitments—it helps with balance and ensures you stay on top of both academics and personal life. Every step outside your comfort zone will help you grow—whether it’s making new friends, sharing your culture, or taking on leadership opportunities. Most importantly, remember that your voice, your perspective, and your story matter. You bring unique strengths to the campus community, and your contributions make SJSU stronger.

Jazmeen Ravendran Pillay

Louie Barozzi Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Malaysia

Major: MS Biotechnology

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

One of my proudest accomplishments at SJSU is serving as a tutor. I truly enjoy mentoring and teaching my peers, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. Tutoring not only allows me to support students in reaching their academic goals, but it also gives me the chance to form connections with people from different majors and backgrounds. These interactions have broadened my perspective and strengthened my communication skills, making tutoring one of the most impactful parts of my time at SJSU.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

Over the summer, I had the opportunity to intern at a cell therapy organization, which was an extremely fulfilling experience. I gained valuable knowledge and skills in my field while also witnessing firsthand how far healthcare has progressed over the years. Knowing that my work contributed, even in a small way, toward developing new treatments and expanding access to patients in need was deeply meaningful.

Beyond the technical skills, the internship greatly enhanced my leadership abilities. Working closely with subject matter experts challenged me to grow, and I became more confident in presentations and public speaking. This experience has not only strengthened my professional foundation, but it has also prepared me to carry these skills forward as I graduate with my Master’s degree and pursue a career in Biotechnology.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

Global experiences and interactions with people from different countries are incredibly valuable in shaping us into global citizens. When I first left home, I felt intimidated about exploring on my own and making new friends, especially with those from cultures different from mine. Over time, however, I learned that stepping outside of my comfort zone was essential for growth. By joining clubs and societies both on and off campus, I built strong support networks and friendships that brought diverse perspectives into my life. 

There experiences have deeply influenced both my personal and academic growth, helping me become more open-minded, adaptable, and appreciative of cultural diversity. I am truly grateful for the connections I have made and those I will continue to make as an international student at SJSU.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

My advice to fellow international students is to always be yourself and never feel the need to change your identity to fit in. Be proud of who you are and where you come from, and embrace the unique perspective you bring to the Spartan community. At the same time, be open to learning from others and appreciating them for who they are. Together, these values create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. 🙂

Sorna Saran Raj Elango

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Madurai, India

Major: MS Construction Management

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

One of my greatest accomplishments during my time at SJSU has been my contribution to a group project in my Construction Management program, where we developed a comprehensive Municipal Solid Waste Management Plan for a hypothetical city. I took the lead in organizing our research, coordinating team meetings, and preparing the final presentation. This project helped me apply classroom concepts to real-world environmental and infrastructure challenges, and it strengthened my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. It was incredibly rewarding to see our team’s hard work recognized by our professor and peers. This experience affirmed my passion for sustainable construction and my goal of making a positive impact through my career.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

At SJSU, I have been actively involved in the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Student Chapter and have participated in several campus sustainability events hosted by the College of Engineering. Through AGC, I’ve had the opportunity to attend industry networking events, gain insights from guest speakers, and collaborate with peers on construction-related activities. These experiences have helped me build valuable connections and deepen my understanding of the construction industry.

Additionally, volunteering at sustainability-focused events has allowed me to contribute to SJSU’s global impact goals and engage with students from diverse backgrounds. These activities have enriched my time at SJSU by strengthening my leadership skills, expanding my network, and reinforcing my commitment to responsible and sustainable development.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

Global experiences and cross-cultural interactions are incredibly valuable because they broaden our perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and help us grow both personally and academically. At SJSU, I’ve had the chance to interact with students and faculty from all over the world, and these interactions have enriched my education far beyond the classroom. Engaging with diverse viewpoints has taught me to be more open-minded, empathetic, and adaptable—qualities that are essential in today’s interconnected world and especially important in the field of construction management, where collaboration across cultures is common.

These global connections have also deepened my appreciation for different problem-solving approaches and helped me develop a more inclusive mindset. I believe that understanding and respecting diverse cultures not only makes us better students and professionals but also better global citizens.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

To my fellow international students: Embrace every opportunity and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Studying abroad is both a challenge and a gift—it allows you to grow in ways you never imagined. Build connections, get involved in campus life, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. There will be moments of uncertainty, but remember that you’re not alone—there’s a strong community here at SJSU ready to support you.

Most importantly, be proud of where you come from and let your unique perspective contribute to the diversity that makes SJSU so special. Your voice matters, and your presence here is powerful.

Radhika Mandhanya

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Indore, India

Major: BA Business Administration/Analytics

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

My greatest accomplishment during my time at San José State University has been embracing my journey as an international student and growing through the challenges and opportunities it has brought. Moving to a new country pushed me outside of my comfort zone but it also allowed me to learn more about myself, adapt to new environments, and build meaningful connections with people from all around the world. I am proud of how I have adjusted and thrived by balancing academics, leadership, and cultural experiences while becoming more confident, resilient, and globally minded. This growth both personally and academically is what I consider my most meaningful accomplishment at SJSU.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

At San José State University, I have been fortunate to be deeply involved in both student organizations and community initiatives that have shaped my college journey. On campus, I serve as President of Boundary.0, a student-led initiative that connects students with Industry 4.0 startups, providing hands-on project experiences, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This role has strengthened my leadership, organizational, and collaboration skills while allowing me to support peers in exploring innovation-driven career paths. I also had the privilege of being a Resident Advisor, where I worked to create a safe and inclusive residential community by planning programs, offering peer support, and fostering meaningful connections among residents. Additionally, as Director of Social Media for the Indian Students Organization, I helped promote cultural events, grow our outreach, and celebrate diversity by building bridges between students of different backgrounds.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

The value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world lies in the way they open our minds, broaden our perspectives, and teach us to appreciate diversity. Engaging with individuals from different cultural and social backgrounds has helped me develop empathy, adaptability, and the ability to see challenges and opportunities from multiple viewpoints. As an international student, this journey has not only connected me to people from many cultures but has also brought me closer to my own country and heritage. Living abroad made me appreciate my culture more deeply while also allowing me to embrace and celebrate the richness of others. These interactions have shaped my personal growth, strengthened my academic journey, and inspired me to continue building bridges between communities with respect and understanding.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

My advice to fellow international students is to embrace the journey with an open mind and heart. Studying abroad is not just about academics, it is about learning from every experience, every challenge, and every person you meet. Take the initiative to step outside your comfort zone, try new activities, and connect with people from different cultures. At the same time, stay rooted in your own traditions and values because your culture is part of what makes your perspective unique and valuable. Remember that it is okay to ask for help, whether from professors, mentors, or peers, and it is just as important to extend help to others when you can. Most of all, celebrate your growth along the way because you are not only earning a degree but also building resilience, friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Alexey Poletaev

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Madrid, Spain

Major: BA Biology

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

My greatest accomplishment during my time at SJSU has been maintaining excellent grades while playing water polo. This is my second year at SJSU, and so far I have a GPA of 3.97. In high school, I usually had an average of around 80%, but through dedication and hard work, I’ve been able to improve my academic performance while competing in water polo at the highest level.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

First of all, I am on the men’s water polo team at SJSU. I am a goalkeeper, and this is my second year training with the team. This is my most important hobby because it is the one I enjoy the most and the one I spend the most time on in my daily life.

Secondly, I am also making online content about International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. After finishing the IB exams in May 2023, three friends of mine and I decided to create a small organization that creates online content about the IB classes. We created a drive with a folder for each subject, and these folders have different documents with notes about every topic. In these documents we also include problems, and every month we upload new videos that answer the problems. Students from my former high school have access to this information, and this idea was accepted by my high school.

And thirdly, I am part of a non-profit organization called KIRI. KIRI is a Madrid-based organization that collects waste paper from schools and then sends it to recycling companies to raise money. With the money raised, they plant trees in different areas of Madrid to improve the atmosphere of the planet. My role in this company involves creating presentations that explain how the organization operates and how students can contribute to our recycling efforts. 

Being actively involved in these activities has helped me feel more connected to SJSU. Playing water polo has taught me discipline, time management, and teamwork, all of which I apply in my academic life. The IB project and my role at KIRI have allowed me to stay engaged with causes I care about, and these experiences have made me more professional and independent. This growth has helped me adapt not only to my classes at SJSU but also to my new life in California. Overall, these opportunities have made my time at SJSU more meaningful and have helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

I believe that global experiences and interactions with people from different parts of the world are very valuable because they help you open your mind and see things from new perspectives. Living in both Spain and California has allowed me to learn about new cultures and see different traditions. Thanks to this, I have improved my communication and comprehension skills. This has also helped me adapt to new ways of thinking and living.

Living in different countries has also made me appreciate my own culture more and feel proud of my roots. Thanks to these experiences, I am now more independent, curious and self-aware, which has helped me both in the classroom and in my daily life in California.

In addition, I have had the opportunity to share my experience. I gave a talk to my old water polo team in Madrid and another at my old school, where I talked about what it’s like to study and live at SJSU. It was a way to inspire others and also to reflect on all that I have learned.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

One piece of advice I would give to all international students is: don’t be afraid of new challenges or exploring the unknown. We all know that living in a foreign country can be difficult, but it’s an experience that will help you grow as a person and strengthen your skills.

Hafeeza Samreen

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Vijayawadal, India

Major: MS Computer Software Engineering

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

Receiving the Global Spartan Scholarship has been one of my proudest accomplishments at SJSU. It not only recognizes my academic dedication and leadership but also affirms my commitment to contributing to the global community on campus. Being chosen for this scholarship among such a competitive group, reflects the meaningful opportunities SJSU has offered me to grow, lead, and thrive in a diverse and dynamic environment. It’s a milestone that motivates me to continue striving for excellence, supporting my peers, and making a lasting impact during my time here.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

My involvement at SJSU has been both enriching and transformative. As a member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), I’ve had the opportunity to connect with inspiring peers and professionals, while serving as an ambassador at the Silicon Valley Women in Engineering Conference 2025 allowed me to represent the university and lead conversations with industry leaders. One of the most significant milestones in my journey has been securing a Software Development Engineer Internship with Amazon for Summer 2025. Each experience has shaped my confidence, leadership, and technical growth, making my time here truly impactful.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

Global experiences are transformative, allowing us to see beyond borders, challenge our perspectives, and learn through the richness of diversity. At SJSU, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with students, faculty, and professionals from all over the world, whether through academic collaboration, conferences, or student organizations. These interactions have taught me that leadership isn’t just about skills, it’s about understanding and connecting with people whose experiences differ from our own.

As an international student, I’ve learned that our differences are our strengths, and embracing them leads to deeper understanding, stronger communities, and more meaningful personal and professional growth. It’s this global exchange of ideas, values, and cultures that prepares us to thrive not only in international careers but also as responsible, empathetic citizens of the world.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

Embrace the journey with confidence and curiosity. Studying in a new country can be overwhelming at first, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—join clubs, attend events, seek mentorship, and build meaningful connections. Your unique perspective is a strength, and your voice matters. Most importantly, stay open to growth, and remember that every challenge is shaping you into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself. You’re not just here to study—you’re here to thrive.

Tanish Shah

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Pune, India

Major: BS Software Engineering

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

One of my proudest accomplishments at SJSU has been creating a full-stack web application called AI Roommate Finder to help students find compatible roommates based on their preferences. It started as a simple project but grew into something meaningful that uses AI to match students based on their lifestyle, habits, and needs. Building this platform from the ground up allowed me to apply my software development skills and work on something that could truly improve student life. It reminded me of the power of technology to bring people together—and that’s what college is all about.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

I’ve been fortunate to be involved in several meaningful roles at SJSU. As a Resident Advisor (RA), I’ve had the chance to support fellow students, build a welcoming community, and grow as a leader and mentor. I also served as the Vice President of Alumni Relations for the Indian Students Organization (ISO), where I helped bridge connections between current students and alumni—creating a stronger network for guidance, mentorship, and opportunities. In addition, I interned at UL Solutions in Fremont and participated in the Software and Computer Engineering (SCE) Club, working on technical backend projects. Each of these experiences has given me a deeper sense of belonging, purpose, and the confidence to take initiative and contribute to the SJSU community in different ways.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

Global experiences and diverse interactions are at the heart of personal growth. As an international student, I’ve had the chance to collaborate with classmates and professors from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. These experiences have opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and taught me how to communicate and problem-solve across differences. They’ve also made me feel more connected—reminding me that no matter where we’re from, we all bring something unique to the table. That shared learning has made my time at SJSU incredibly rich and rewarding.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

To my fellow international students: believe in yourself and embrace the journey. It’s okay to feel uncertain at first—being far from home and adjusting to a new culture can be tough—but every challenge is a chance to grow. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, join student organizations, or step out of your comfort zone. You’ll be amazed by the opportunities that come your way when you stay open and involved. SJSU is full of supportive communities that want to see you succeed—just like you deserve to.

Matias Tineo

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Lima, Peru

Major: BS Economics

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

I have just completed my 1st academic year at SJSU and my greatest accomplishment is that I was able to land an internship at a place where I can help others with my skills. I work at my church as a Budgetting intern through CPT. Thanks to the skills learned during class I can contribute to a community that needs it which is one of my life goals

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

I am involved with CRU and was in the fall 2024 with FMA (had to stop since I now have internship work during that time). I also work at Templo La Luz church and also serve there. This involvement is teaching me that life is more than just about success. It is about helping others because we are all human beings and need to be in communities where we feel welcomed and loved.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

The value is that we all have different perspectives in life and each one is valid. Sharing with other cultures shows humanity and helps each other to grow better as we get to know people from around the world. Every experience with other cultures enriches us.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

Be passionate about what you love to do! I know it is hard to be far from home but there is a community here that welcomes you and also makes you feel welcome. Also be bold and get out of your comfort zone because there is where you will grow the most.

Meera Vyas

Global Spartan Continuing Student Scholarship Recipient

Home Country: Ahmedabad, India

Major: BS Computer Science

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment during your time at SJSU?

There are many experiences I consider accomplishments, and I am truly grateful for all the doors which have opened for me. the greatest accomplishment for me would be exploring myself as a founder and to explore the entrepreneurial side of me. Receiving the highly competitive Global Spartan Scholarship and being featured in this newsletter is also an incredible accomplishment, it represents not only my hard work, but also the immense support and opportunities I’ve received. I have also been part of many hackathons and have won 2 hackathons while being a student at SJSU.

In addition, I’ve had the honor of representing SJSU in many places, including being selected for an AI Camp at Cal Poly, a research program at UPenn, serving as a chair at an IEEE conference, and participating in several other conferences and programs. Each of these opportunities has shaped me in meaningful ways and contributed greatly to my growth as both a student and a professional.

What student or community organizations, internships, etc. are you involved with? How has your involvement impacted your SJSU experience?

This summer has been an incredible journey of growth and opportunity. I interned at Juniper Networks (now HPE) as a Data Engineer, which was one of the best professional experiences of my life. Alongside that, I served as an AI/ML Fellow with Cornell University through Break Through Tech, an AI Studio Fellow with Automation Anywhere, and participated in Oracle’s REACH program. These experiences strengthened my technical abilities and allowed me to bring valuable skills and insights back to the clubs and communities I’m part of on campus.

At SJSU, I am an Adobe Campus Ambassador, a Campus Partner with Perplexity, and have served as an Industry Ambassador with the Responsible Computing Challenge Club. I’m also involved with the Society of Women Engineers, IDEAS, and SpartUp. Beyond professional growth, I’ve worked on projects focused on social good and community impact. Some of my most meaningful roles include being an Orientation Leader where I helped new students transition into college life and my current role as a Peer Academic Success Coach at International House, where I support students with resources, advising, or simply being there to listen.

These experiences have not only shaped my career path but have also deepened my sense of belonging and purpose at SJSU.

What is the value of global experiences and interactions with people from around the world?

As an international student, one of my main goals in studying abroad was to gain global exposure. I truly enjoy learning from new perspectives and ideas, and I’ve come to appreciate how every culture is different yet shares surprising similarities. Engaging with people from around the world has helped me grow both personally and academically, it broadens my thinking, challenges me to see problems in new ways, and reminds me of the value of empathy and inclusivity. These global experiences have not only enriched my education but also prepared me to work in diverse, collaborative environments beyond the classroom.

What is your advice/message to fellow international students?

My advice to fellow international students is to step outside of your comfort zone, it’s where the best growth happens. Every new experience, whether it’s joining a club, starting a conversation, or trying something unfamiliar, opens doors you never imagined and reveals strengths you didn’t know you had. Embrace the journey fully, you’ll surprise yourself with how much you’re capable of.

Scholarship Recipients

Gilman Scholarship

Louie Barozzi Scholarship

Global Spartan Scholarship: Continuing Student

Global Spartan Scholarship: New Student