International Student Spotlight

If you want to be part of the Global Education Student Spotlight, please follow the instructions:

Send us a fun picture of you with the the following:
- Your name, where you are from and your major
- What are your favorite things to do during your free time
- What you plan to do after graduation
- What you miss from CSUSM and any other words of encouragement.
Please email this information to Ayari Valenzuela Macias (avalenzuela@csusm.edu).

Current International Students

Pushpita, Bangladesh

I'm currently studying Biotechnology at CSUSM, and it's my third year here. I really miss my friends; the distance has made it hard to talk like we used to. I only get to hang out with my best friends once a year, but they remain my closest companions. I especially miss family trips and the amazing food back home.

Living alone in the U.S. has been a fun experience so far. I've learned to be independent, make my own decisions, and become stronger and more confident. This journey wouldn't have been as manageable without the incredible support from CSUSM.

I love the campus events—they’ve introduced me to fun activities and helped me build meaningful connections. The support centers and services here have been really helpful for my academic life. Also, working for the campus has been a pleasure for me. It has given me exposure to professional commitments and responsibilities.

On weekends, my favorite thing to do is relax with my favorite food while watching my favorite series.

Richeek, India

I'm currently studying Computer Science here at CSUSM, freshman. I miss a lot of things but top three "F" would be - food, family & friends. Gosh the things I would do to eat my mom's cooked meals!!

Being here away from my family taught me alot! Like literally. I learned how to manage my finances, my time, it also helped to understand and learn public speaking (something I was really bad at).

The campus life here at CSUSM is pretty fun. There's always something happening and at times I am in a dilemma which one to go to. But overall the experience is fun. Something I like doing over the weekends would be getting pending tasks done and watch Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!)

Mehjabeen, Bangladesh

I’m currently a third-year computer science major, and it’s been an exciting yet challenging journey so far. Being an international student, one of the things I miss the most is the food from my home country. There’s something so comforting about the flavors and dishes I grew up with, and I find myself reminiscing about them often.

I really enjoy being at CSUSM. The campus has such a welcoming and positive atmosphere. The professors are not only knowledgeable but also approachable, always ready to help and support students. My friends here have been amazing—they make my college experience so much better. Everyone I’ve met so far has been incredibly friendly, and it makes me feel like I’m part of a larger community.

When I’m not busy with schoolwork, I absolutely love to relax and catch up on sleep. Whether it’s lounging around, listening to music, or just taking it easy, I value those moments where I can recharge. Sleep is especially important for me—it helps me feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

Overall, my time here has been a mix of growth, learning, and building great memories, and I’m excited for what’s to come!