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Global Graduates: Spring 2023

We’re celebrating a few more #GlobalGrads with this feature article to recognize international students’ achievements at NC State and beyond. OIS wishes all Spring 2023 graduates great success in their future endeavors and is proud of our global Wolfpack community! (See additional student highlights on our Instagram page.)

Parth Thosani (he/him)

Master’s Degree in Computer Science 🎓

What surprised you about being a part of the Wolfpack? What are you most proud of?

I was surprised by the strong sense of community and pride that permeates the NCSU campus. I am most proud of various academic opportunities and the depth and quality of educational opportunities along with renowned faculty and research facilities. I am also proud of the success of our athletic teams and Wolfpack as they have a rich history of success in various sports.

Is there any advice you would offer to prospective international students?

Research and understand the programs, connect with current or former international students, explore support services and take advantage of various resources on-campus.

Do you have any favorite memories?

Starting from working on-campus as a Barista in Starbucks to server customers to assisting students in Software Engineering course as a Teaching Assistant, I have been part of various on-campus jobs.

Urvashi Kar (she/her)

Master’s Degree in Computer Science 🎓

What surprised you about being a part of the Wolfpack? What are you most proud of?

Despite being miles away from home, Wolfpack made me feel right at home. Whether it was working on assignments to make it to the deadline or all the late night study sessions at Hunt Library only to wake up early to attend classes and part time, the friends I made here made all the struggles seem easy. I was surprised with how beautiful the campus is with the lakes and parks around it. I will miss walking to campus through the Lake Raleigh trail and spotting all the turtles and deers (on the rare occasion).

Do you have any favorite memories?

When I first came to the US, I was anxious leaving my family and friends behind, questioning if I made the right choice. Today I look back and I am thankful to myself for having taken this step. I worked part time for every semester that I’ve been here beginning as a Barista at Port City Java and then as a Teaching Assistant for 3 semesters. I’ve made wonderful friends throughout and my experience has been wholesome and rewarding. NC State also gave me the opportunity to attend conferences like SWE and GHC, as part of WICS (Women in Computer Science), which helped me build strong connections with my peers who are now my support system.

What are your “next steps,” either personally or professionally?

I’m excited to be moving to a new state and joining Barclays. My personal goal, now that I am out of school is to visit every state in the United States and make wonderful memories 🙂 I still hope to keep visiting Raleigh with all the beautiful trails it has to hike around.

Chandra Shah (he/him)

Master’s Degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering 🎓

What surprised you about being a part of the Wolfpack? What are you most proud of?

The way I was treated from day 1 by the other members of Wolfpack. I still remember […] my first week in States and I was shy to talk to other students who were playing sand volleyball at Tucker Owen [Beach outdoor recreation area] but seeing me there they asked me to join them play and even invited me to a cookout event that they had planned for. Always felt included and never treated as an outsider and this made me feel at home. This is what I tried to do to other international students that came and is what I am proud of.

Do you have any favorite memories?

Going to gym and playing volleyball was my go to place. Even after a long day playing volleyball with the group always cheered me up.

What excites you about the future?

Got a full-time job lined up in Raleigh and staying close to the campus excites me because I’ll still be able to go play volleyball after a long day at work.

Shri Vinoshia R Mahalingam (she/her)

Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering 🎓

What surprised you about being a part of the Wolfpack? What are you most proud of?

I have immense gratitude for the unwavering support and the inclusive community that I have found at NC State. The Wolfpack has become a second home to me, providing a comforting and welcoming environment where I feel a strong sense of belonging. I am grateful for the opportunities that NC State provided me with- from my first internship to a year long co-op and the valuable role as a TA and Grader.

Is there any advice you would offer to prospective international students?

Being an international student can present its challenges, but remember to always stay optimistic. Despite the obstacles, perseverance is key. Trust the process, actively seek out new opportunities, and connect with professionals in your field. Keep pushing forward until you accomplish your goals. Remember that everything will eventually fall into place.

Do you have any favorite memories?

Engaging in project practicums with organizations like UNICEF and the American Red Cross has been such a rewarding experience for me. The hands-on involvement in real-time projects has not only prepared me for the industry but has also helped me pursue further professional opportunities.