UCLA International Student Ambassadors

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

Majors: Neuroscience, Psychology

Hobbies/Interests: Photography, Poetry, Psychology, Exploring new places

Bio: Hello hello! My name’s Akshata and I’ve lived in a beautiful state of Odisha all my life. I love clicking pictures of everything, trying new cuisines, going on midnight walks, and of course meeting new people! I’ve always loved working with people on subjects I deeply feel for, and coming from such a diverse country has brought with it exposure, appreciation, and great interest in learning about cultures and various ways of living that people around the world have. For me, coming to UCLA had its challenges, but it’s as fun as you make it. The transition can feel overwhelming at times, and it may take a toll on you in several ways, but I want you to know that there are several resources that can help, and I’m here every step of the way if you ever need someone to talk to!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Saitama, Japan

Major: Psychology; Accounting (minor)

Hobbies/Interests: Taking care of animals

Bio: Hi! I’m Asumi, born and raised in Japan. I moved to the US in August 2021 and transferred from Orange Coast College to UCLA, where I’m now a senior majoring in psychology. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in accounting and hope to become a CPA. I love Asian food and enjoy helping people, so feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns, and we can chat in Japanese! I look forward to getting to know you and hope everyone has a fantastic year!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Major: Environmental Science Major, Earth and Environmental Science (minor)

Hobbies: Exploring other cuisines, going to the beach, tennis, and photography!

Bio: Hi everyone! I’m Baria Alaswad, a third-year Environmental Science major minoring in Earth and Environmental Science. I was born and raised in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and I speak both English and Arabic. My favorite thing to do is go to the beach. Growing up, I spent every Friday at the beach, which sparked my love for the natural world and led me to choose Environmental Science as my major.
I love meeting new people and trying different places. I have a big sweet tooth, so I’m always looking for dessert recommendations! I moved to Houston for a couple of months during my junior year of high school, and I understand how challenging change can be. I'm here to help you adapt to the changes you may face at UCLA. Feel free to reach out—I would love to assist or simply get to know you!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Istanbul, Turkey

Major: Business Economics

Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, Playing volleyball, Trying new cuisines

Bio: Hi! My name is Defne and I have lived in Istanbul, Turkey for 18 years until I decided to attend college in the US which is what brought me to UCLA. I love traveling to new places, meeting new people and learning about different cultures. In my first year I found that I could combine all of these passions of mine by joining student clubs on campus and being involved with a variety of events within them. I recognize that being an international student could be daunting and isolating at first however I believe that given the necessary support and resources, this campus and hopefully LA would become a second home. I am more than happy and excited to provide support, answer any questions that you may have or talk about all things Turkish culture and cuisine!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Quito, Ecuador & Lima, Peru

Major: Psychology

Hobbies/Interests: Drinking good coffee, reading, traveling, going to the beach

Bio: Hi!! My name is Emilia Barriga Cortez. I was born in Quito, Ecuador, and I’ve also lived in New York and Lima, Peru. Going to UCLA was one of the hardest and best decisions as it allowed me to meet new people and explore many of my interests. Living in various countries allowed me to understand the struggles and anxieties of moving abroad. I have grown to love my time at UCLA and meet many amazing people that share my common interests and goals! Please reach out if you have any questions or need advice!

Pronouns: he/him/his

Home: Kharkiv, Ukraine

Major: Computer Science, Asian Language (Chinese minor)

Hobbies/Interests: Cooking, climbing, teaching, reading, politics

Bio: Hello everyone! I'm from Ukraine and I'm very excited to get to know you all! I spent amazing two years at UCLA, and more than happy to help you navigate international learning experience in the US. In my free time, I love teaching and help my peers make first steps in competitive programming through ACM ICPC. Apart from academics, I enjoy rock-climbing and currently challenging myself to go beyond V5s! Feel free to ask me anything about classes, social and cultural life at UCLA!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Porto Alegre, Brazil & Guangzhou, China

Major: Financial Actuarial Mathematics, Global Studies

Hobbies: Travel, languages, volleyball, soccer, music, hiking

Bio: Hii! I'm Isabel Veit and I'm currently a second-year undergrad double majoring in Financial Actuarial Mathematics and Global Studies. I'm from Brazil and China and was born and raised in Guangzhou, so I call both places home and I'm excited to be representing both for the next year! I love traveling, learning languages, experiencing new cultures, exploring LA, and staying active. I'm involved in many clubs on campus (BAS, GDL, IM Vball!!) and can't wait to get to know the international community better as well! Having been at UCLA for a year now, I can confidently say that it was the right choice and I truly feel like I belong. Can't wait to share more of these experiences with incoming international students ;) Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or just want to chat!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Kassel, Germany

Major: Cognitive Science

Hobbies: Playing tennis, reading, trying new cafes, baking

Bio: Hi! I'm Jule and I'm originally from Germany but have lived in various countries growing up before moving to the US. I'm a rising senior studying Cognitive Science and I've loved getting to explore Los Angeles and meeting so many people from all over the world. Feel free to send me any questions!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Lagos, Nigeria & Dallas, Texas

Major: International Development Studies, Film and Television (minor)

Hobbies: DJ, Fashion, Badminton, Basketball, Crocheting, Sewing, Cooking, Baking, Ukelele, Thrifting, Photography, Binge-watching television shows.

Bio: Hi guys, I’m Kele Onuoha a senior studying International Development with a minor in Film and Television. My background is a little all over the place. Over the years I’ve lived in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Lagos, Nigeria, (even though I’m an Igbo girl through and through from Imo state) Trinidad and Dallas, Texas. I thought my experience living all over and attending boarding schools prepared me somewhat for life at Los Angeles at UCLA because I was used to change and new experiences. However, I soon realized this was a whole new experience that I had to navigate through. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need support. I’ve dealt with my fare share of challenges and would love to help others who might be experiencing similar issues.

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Syria & Lebanon

Major: Pre-Human Biology and Society

Hobbies/Interests: photography/ listening to music/ watching movies

Bio: Hello :) I'm Lana, I lived in Damascus Syria for 8 years and 11 years in Beirut Lebanon. I love photography and really enjoy listening to music of all kinds! I am also a big film and TV person! I love to explore all parts of LA and try all the amazing food options! Moving across the world to attend UCLA was a hard decision but i know that it was the right one, as I have been able to make a surrounding for myself that supports and pushes me towards my goals! If you have any questions about being an international freshman at UCLA or if you have any good movie, music, or restaurant recommendations please don't hesitate to reach out :)

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Beirut, Lebanon

Major: Neuroscience

Hobbies: Baking, painting, languages, sitcoms

Bio: Hey!! I am Lea, and I am so glad that you found this page! I have lived my whole life in Beirut and moved to LA last year, and I am a second-year premed. I love languages (I speak French, Arabic, English and Spanish), and going on unnecessary long walks, but most of all, talking about everything and nothing (I am always open to chat!!). I had many doubts before coming to UCLA, like how well I would fit in and how hard the transition would be, but I am more than happy with the community that I found here. Please reach out regarding anything, but especially transitioning from the French system, being pre-med, being involved on campus, and student life in general!

Pronouns: he/him/his

Home: Madrid, Spain

Degree: PhD Operations Management

Hobbies/Interests: Before I had kids I used to travel a lot. I love reading and I really enjoy music and play videogames. Also I am a huge Real Madrid fan.

Bio: I’m a PhD student at the Decisions, Operations and Technology Management department at Anderson School of Management. Prior to joining UCLA I lived in Chile where I was working at a healthcare company but I also lived in New York, Boston, Riyadh, Rio de Janeiro, Medellin, Chicago among other cities. I am married and I have two kids: Carlota who is 5 years old and Martin who is 3.

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Bangkok, Thailand

Major: Economics & Psychology; Global Health (minor)

Hobbies: Listening to music, reading, traveling, cafe hopping, volleyball

Bio: Hi! My name is Prare and I am a second year majoring in Economics and Psychology. I was born and raised in Bangkok, Thailand. My journey at UCLA has been incredible and filled with many new experiences and opportunities to grow. I love hanging out with friends and making memories together. Adapting to a new culture can be challenging and stressful for many international students. I am here to support you in all aspects of your life, from adjusting to a new academic environment to sharing my favorite local restaurants. I look forward to connecting with all of you and answering any questions you may have!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Vancouver, Canada & Beijing, China

Major: Financial Actuarial Mathematics, Statistics & Data Science

Hobbies: Swimming, baking, exploring food/cafes around the city.

Bio: Hi everyone! I'm Rainie and I was born in Beijing, China but grew up in Vancouver, Canada since age 3. I used to swim competitively and love to explore new foods, including baking it or cooking it myself. I went to the same school for the previous 9 years before coming to UCLA, so I was so glad that my transition was smooth and hope to bring a similar experience to future Bruins. I look forward to working with the ambassadors team and connecting with fellow international students!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: London, UK & Karachi, Pakistan

Major: Political Science & Business Economics

Hobbies/Interests: I am an avid reader and writer. I really enjoy writing about current affairs and philosophy. I also play squash in my free time. I have e a considerable interest in all sorts of teas and exploring their variations around the world.

Bio: Hi! I'm Rida and the places I call home are Karachi and London (also LA now!). I am currently a sophomore with a keen interest in politics and global affairs. Although I have moved across continents before, it didn't make the move to LA any easier. That said, I have been lucky to come across some lovely people and equally amazing experiences in LA. I always say that Karachi and London have made me who I am today, and I have no doubts that I will say the same about LA after my time here. Please feel free to contact me about anything at all, whether it be a question about my major, or just to say hi. I look forward to getting to know you and hope everyone has a fantastic year!

Pronouns: he/him/his

Home: Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia & Sudan

Major: Statistics, Data Science, Political Science

Hobbies: Collecting vinyl records, playing basketball, looking for new viewpoints, and attending concerts.

Bio: Hi! My name is Saad Abubaker. I was born in the United Kingdom and call Saudi Arabia and Sudan my home. I'm a rising junior at UCLA, majoring in Statistics & Data Science and Political Science. I've experienced many different cultures and enjoy meeting all kinds of people. I'm committed to making UCLA a great place for international students. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or just want to chat!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Mumbai and Bangalore, India

Major: Business Economics, Mathematics (minor)

Hobbies: Traveling, Swimming, Reading, Listening to music, Working out, trying new cafés.

Bio: Hey! I’m Sanjiti and I call Mumbai, India my home. I’m a sophomore studying business economics, and still trying to figure out what path I want to pursue. I love swimming, hiking, and exploring LA in general (it’s an incredible city). For me, moving to UCLA was a leap of faith but it has been extremely rewarding. I’ve made incredible friendships and memories and already learned so many things about myself! UCLA has opened up so many doors and opportunities for me and I hope everyone has a positive experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you might have or just because; I love meeting new people!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Kuwait

Major: Business Economics

Hobbies: Reading & writing, swimming, watching movies, tennis, horse-riding, and trying new foods with friends!

Bio: Hello! My name is Sarah, and I'm a sophomore studying business economics.
I'm from Kuwait, but have spent 9 years living in England. I love going to the beach, meeting new people, travelling, and trying new things such as new cuisines and activities- let me know if you have any recommendations! Making the move and adopting a new lifestyle can be difficult in the beginning, so l'm here to support you with absolutely anything! I can’t wait to get to know you all, and if you ever have any questions, concerns or just want to hang out feel free to reach out :)

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Cape Town, South Africa

Major: Biology (Pre-Med)

Hobbies: I'm a huge nature girl, and I love hiking, being in the ocean, and exploring new places. I'm a huge reader, and I play tennis and run for fun!

Bio: Hi! My name is Sarah van der Walt and I am from Cape Town, South Africa! I'm a current third-year at UCLA pursuing a degree in Biology on the Pre-Med track. I moved to the US for university and spent my entire life in Cape Town prior to that. I'm fluent in both English and Afrikaans, and I'm super passionate about learning about new cultures and sharing my experiences living in South Africa. Being a Pre-Med student in a new country can be scary, and I'd love to help other prospective Pre-Med students find their way around the American system. Feel free to reach out to me with questions about anything and everything, or just to chat!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Suwon & Seoul, South Korea

Major: Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology (MCDB)

Hobbies/Interests: Cooking Korean food, walking my dog, going on picnics with friends, catching sunsets, late night gym sessions!

Bio: Hi, I'm Sydney or you can call me by my Korean name Seohyun! I was born in Seoul, South Korea, spent 5 years of my childhood in São Paulo, Brazil, but the place I call home is Suwon, South Korea. I went to an IB international school for my entire life before coming to UCLA, and I'm a MCDB major on the pre-dental track. While moving thousands of miles alone for college was frightening at first, I’m more than grateful for the people I’ve met and experiences I’ve made so far. If there’s any questions I can answer, please feel free to reach out :)

Pronouns: he/him/his

Home: Seoul, South Korea

Major: Cognitive Science

Hobbies: Singing, Drawing

Bio: Hello! I'm Suheon and I am from Seoul, South Korea. I lived there until I graduated high school, so I lived about 19 years. I love Korean culture, especially Korean food! I also love to meet new people and will do my best to help you, so please feel free to reach out!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Tibet & India

Major: Community Health Sciences

Hobbies/Interests: Reading, Pencil Sketching, traveling, and listening to music

Bio: Hi! I am Tenzin and I am a second year PhD student at the Fielding School of Public Health. I am a Tibetan by origin but I was born and raised in India. I am trilingual, fluent in Tibetan, English, and Hindi. Having pursued my Master's degree as well as continuing to pursue my Doctoral degree in the United States, I understand the challenges and triumphs that international students experience while studying abroad. Therefore, as an international student ambassador, I am happy to connect with fellow international students to help make the most out of this academic journey. Feel free to get in touch :)

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Lagos, Nigeria & London, England

Major: MA African Studies

Hobbies: Escape rooms, Jigsaw puzzles, Performing arts, Pub quizzes/Trivia, Museums, Dancing & Arcades

Bio: Being raised in Nigeria, the Netherlands & England and currently living in Los Angeles has given me the gift of understanding many perspectives as well the ability to connect with people easily. As an MA student in UCLA’s African Studies program at the International Institute, I am able to contribute to conversations that directly affect the continent yet are not taking place on the continent. My academics and my upbringing have taken me to many countries and given me a lot of knowledge on different cultures while highlighting how similar we all are despite our differences. So, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, need any suggestions or if you would just like to chat :)

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Bangkok, Thailand

Major: Business Economics

Hobbies: Piano, violin, food, amusement parks, board games

Bio: Hi! My name is View, and I am a sophomore studying Business Economics. I have lived in Thailand all my life; the first time I set foot in the US was last fall quarter! I love traveling and collecting snow globes from around the world. My life at UCLA is like walking to classes: there are many ups and downs:) I am so grateful to have many people who support me on my journey, and I would love to be that person for you too! Definitely reach out <3

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Lebanon

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hobbies/Interests: Travel, music, tennis, reading, watching TV shows

Bio: Hi! My name is Yara Abi Karam and I'm a third-year Mechanical Engineering major. I grew up in Lebanon and speak English, French, and Arabic fluently. I love traveling, listening to music (especially attending concerts), going on road-trips, and discussing TV shows/movies. Moving to a different country on your own definitely comes with challenges, but UCLA offers many resources that will make it a lot easier, the Dashew Center being one of them. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions but also if you just want to hang out or try some Lebanese food ;)

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Shenzhen, China

Major: Sociology

Hobbies: Languages, theater acting, traveling, biking, binge watching shows, LGBTQ+ advocacy (check out Lavender Alliance UCLA!), petting dogs!!!

Bio: Hi y’all! This is Yiran from the vibrant high tech city Shenzhen, China. Attending UCLA was my first ever experience of moving to, living in, and adapting to another country. This transition process was a lot of panicking and confusion for me, so I am here to help you get through yours as smoothly as possible! Feel free to reach out and chat about life at UCLA, international student experience, my hobbies and interests, or just make friends with me!

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Home: Tokyo, Japan & Geneva, Switzerland

Major: Psychobiology

Hobbies: Traveling, food, dancing, drinking lattes, hiking

Bio: Hi!! My name is Yui and I'm a junior student majoring in psychobiology. I was born and raised in Geneva, Switzerland then moved to Tokyo, Japan so I understand the struggles of finding a community in a brand new country whilst also transitioning into college. Feel free to reach out at any time <3

Pronouns: he/him/his

Home: Kedah, Malaysia

Major: Financial Actuarial Mathematics, Accounting (minor)

Hobbies: Soccer, running, travelling, going to the beach, exploring new places, and meeting new people.

Bio: Hi everyone! I’m Zabir, hailing from a state called Kedah, in the north of Peninsular Malaysia. LA was the first country outside of Malaysia where I resided for more than a week (it’s been three years now!!), and I can say that it has not been an easy journey. However, I have been lucky to come across some fantastic people and resources at UCLA that allow me to create meaningful experiences and long-lasting friendships in a place far away from home. Going into my final year at UCLA, I look forward to connecting with as many people as possible and making the most out of what UCLA (and LA) have to offer. If you have any questions about my major, experiences, or interests, or just want to have a chat, feel free to get in touch!