Meet our Global Student Ambassadors for 2025

The Global Student Ambassadors (GSA) program was developed by International Students and Scholars to help new international students feel welcome, get assistance, and build community at UW. GSAs provide necessary assistance with international student orientation prior to the start of the spring and fall semesters. They are experienced students from a variety of backgrounds that serve as role models to new international students, and help introduce them to life in Laramie, at UW, and in the US. Meet our 2025 GSAs:

 

Violeta Himan

My name is Violeta Himan, and I’m a transfer student from Papua, Indonesia. I’m currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in business Economics and Marketing. Studying at UW has been a life-changing experience for me. The transition from Papua to Laramie was not an easy journey, but I’m grateful that UW has equipped me with all the necessary resources to succeed academically and personally. I’ve been fortunate to meet incredibly supportive professors who are always willing to help. I have also taken advantage of the many free academic resources available around campus.

I’m so amazed by the local community at UW being welcoming and friendly to students from all over the world, and this has played an important role during my time here. The people here are eager to learn about different cultures, which has helped me feel at home. One family that I've been a part of since 2024 is the Friends of International (FOI), which provides a great opportunity to share my culture and gain authentic American experiences.

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Rhema Boabeng

Hello, I am Rhema from Ghana, currently pursuing an MA in Communication and Journalism here at the University of Wyoming. I am a Staunch believer in the power of clear and impactful communication, which is rooted in authenticity and aimed at empowering individuals and communities.

What I love most about UW is its wealth of opportunities for every student. For prospective or current graduate students seeking professional development, I highly recommend checking out the School of Graduate Education (SGE) website at UW; they offer invaluable resources to support your academic journey.

And here is a tip from me: Stay warm this winter, and if you ever find yourself wondering which sport to try, always choose soccer. It never disappoints! ⚽

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Christopher Akurugu

I am Christopher Akurugu, and I am a PhD student in Geophysics at the University of Wyoming. I earned my master’s degree in Geology from this institution and my bachelor's degree in physics with a minor in Geophysics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. My research focuses on investigating groundwater depletion using artificial intelligence and physical modeling techniques. I am honored to serve as the president of the International Student Partners and the Spirit of Africa Drum Corps. Additionally, I am actively involved in the Fellowship of Christian Graduate Students. These organizations have fostered a sense of belonging and created a supportive and vibrant community that makes my time at the University of Wyoming truly fulfilling.

Having been here for over two years, I deeply appreciate Wyoming's stunning landscapes and the abundance of outdoor activities it offers. The Laramie community is incredibly supportive and generous. Also, the university provides excellent resources that enhance both my academic journey and personal growth. As a friendly and outgoing individual, I enjoy connecting with people and exploring new interests. While not a gym enthusiast, I occasionally work out and I am currently learning to play basketball, and volleyball, adding to the enriching experiences of my time here.

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Abdalrahim Abuwarda

My name is Abdalrahim Abuwarda, and I am pursuing a PhD in English with a focus on Public Humanities at the University of Wyoming. What I love most about UW is its strong sense of community and the opportunities it provides to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The welcoming atmosphere on campus and the commitment to fostering growth, both academically and personally, have made my journey here incredibly rewarding.

Being part of UW has allowed me to explore my passion for teaching and research while engaging with thought-provoking ideas and meaningful projects that can make a difference in the world. I feel grateful to call UW my academic home and to be part of such an inspiring environment.

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Kathan Bandyopadhyay

My name is Kathan Bandyopadhyay, and I am pursuing a PhD in Animal Ecology at the University of Wyoming. As someone deeply passionate about wildlife research and conservation, I am currently investigating carnivore ecology & conservation, and innovative solutions for coexistence between species in rapidly changing landscapes.

What I love most about UW is its collaborative and inclusive academic environment, which fosters creativity and encourages students to tackle pressing ecological challenges. The access to incredible fieldwork opportunities, supportive faculty, and interdisciplinary research has been instrumental in shaping my journey as a conservation scientist. UW’s focus on practical solutions and community engagement has allowed me to bridge the gap between research and real-world conservation efforts, making my experience here truly enriching.