New class of Global Ambassadors welcome international students to U of A

Today
Rikki Mioduski, Arizona International
A group of seven University of Arizona Global Ambassadors stand together outside the Global Center, smiling at the camera. They are wearing matching navy polo shirts with the Arizona International logo, with the building’s large "A" logo and "Global Center" signage visible behind them.

This fall, the University of Arizona International Student Services is welcoming a new cohort of Global Ambassadors (GAs). These dedicated student leaders help international Wildcats feel at home as they begin their journeys at the U of A. Coming from diverse backgrounds and majors, the 2025 class of GAs share a passion for cultural exchange, community-building, and creating an inclusive campus environment.

 

Alt text: Portrait of Aariya, a University of Arizona Global Ambassador, wearing a navy U of A polo shirt and smiling slightly while standing indoors with blurred background lighting.
Aariya
From: India
Business Management, May 2027

For Aariya, being a Global Ambassador is about much more than answering questions; it’s about being a reliable friend and source of comfort. Aariya joined the program to give back after her own transition as an international student. “Being an international student myself, I know how overwhelming those first few weeks can feel,” she shared. Her favorite campus tradition is Friday@Global, a monthly event where students gather to celebrate cultures over food, laughter, and conversation. Aariya also loves cooking dishes from around the world and hopes to help every international student feel like they truly belong.

 

 

Catalina, a Global Ambassador at the University of Arizona, wearing a navy Arizona International polo shirt, smiles softly at the camera in an indoor setting with blurred background lighting.
Catalina
From: Chile
Anthropology and History, May 2027

Catalina sees Global Ambassadors as the “first point of contact” for international students. She hopes to create a welcoming environment and connect with students through their stories and interests. Some of her favorite U of A traditions include Dog Days with the Dean, Pawse for Pets, and Chats with Cats. Catalina is excited about taking more specialized classes this year and attending a field school in the summer. A fun fact: she shares a birthday with her dog, Strudel.


 


 
Portrait of María, a Global Ambassador at the University of Arizona, wearing a navy blue Arizona International polo and glasses, smiling softly in a well-lit indoor setting.
María
From: Peru
Psychological Sciences, Neuroscience minor, May 2027

Maria believes the role of a GA is to make international students feel safe and at home. She credits the program with helping her meet some of her best friends, and now she hopes to give others the same experience. Her favorite activities at U of A include BASH at the Rec, Welcome Spring, and visits to local favorite Scented Leaf. Maria, who has played the violin since she was four, is especially looking forward to diving deeper into her neuroscience minor this year.

 

 

 

Portrait of Navya, a Global Ambassador at the University of Arizona, wearing a navy blue Arizona International polo, smiling softly with dark hair framing her face in a bright indoor setting.
Navya
From: India
Psychological Sciences and Neuroscience & Cognitive Science, May 2028

For Navya, being a Global Ambassador is a way to give back to International Student Services, which supported her transition to campus life. Having interacted with many GAs before becoming one herself, she is excited to now serve as that resource for others. She looks forward to meeting students from across the globe, learning about their cultures, and sharing her own experiences. Navya enjoys evening walks across campus and the many clubs that keep students engaged. Fun fact: coffee and energy drinks no longer work for her, she still feels sleepy after drinking them.

 


 
Redwan, a Global Ambassador at the University of Arizona, wearing a navy blue polo shirt with the red and white block "A" logo, poses indoors against a softly blurred background.
Redwan
From: Bangladesh
Applied Computing: Artificial Intelligence, May 2028

For Redwan, being a GA means serving as a bridge between international students and the U of A community. “To me, it’s about listening, guiding, and uplifting others so that everyone feels at home, no matter where they come from,” he said. Inspired by the kindness of GAs he met when he first arrived, Redwan hopes to help others feel less invisible and more connected. He especially enjoys Friday @ Global as a way to build friendships across cultures (and enjoy free food). A movie enthusiast who has watched over 1,200 films since 2019, Redwan also loves traveling, music, gaming, and sports. This year, he looks forward to deepening his studies in coding and AI, while also building stronger connections and meaningful memories.

 

Shashwat, a Global Ambassador at the University of Arizona, wearing a navy blue Arizona polo shirt, smiles for a professional portrait.
Shashwat 
From: India
Pre-Business, May 2027

Shashwat knows firsthand how much of a difference a GA can make—he remembers the support he received during orientation. Now, he’s eager to welcome new students through events like Friday@Global and airport pick-ups. His favorite University of Arizona tradition is Destination Arizona, which helps bring students together from the start of the year. Beyond his ambassador role, Shashwat is a talented musician who plays guitar, piano, harmonica, and violin. This year, he looks forward to growing as a leader and creating lasting friendships.

 

 

 

Together, the Global Ambassadors embody the U of A’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community. From helping students navigate campus life to creating spaces where cultural exchange thrives, these student leaders play a vital role in making international Wildcats feel at home. For a rundown of events and activities offered by International Student Services, please visit the Events Calendar.