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International Student & Scholar Advisory Board
Name: Abigail E. Adade
Hometown and country: Ghana
Year or level: Ph.D.
Major: Clinical Psychology
Tell us a little about yourself:
I am originally from Ghana and have been in the U.S. for over two years. I have a strong interest in mental health, cultural understanding, technology, and global engagement. I currently serve as a Teaching Assistant and mentor, helping students both academically and personally. I enjoy engaging with the community and love cooking in my free time, especially trying recipes from different cultures. I look forward to sharing my experiences and learning from others to help strengthen our international community at VCU.
Favorite spot in Richmond: Maymont Park
Name: Milan Chaudhari
Hometown: India
Year or level: Graduate
Major: MDA
Tell us a little about yourself:
I have done my bachelors from a renowned Australian university so I know and have experienced first-hand what international students leaving their home country faces and go through emotionally. And that is why I've become part of this Board to push those students to put themselves out more and embrace the exciting opportunities that come along.
Favorite spot in Richmond: Belle Isle suspension bridge
Name: Mahmoud Kaid
Hometown: Egypt
Year or level: Ph.D.
Major: Chemistry
Tell us a little about yourself:
I am Mahmoud Kaid, a Ph.D. student in chemistry at VCU. Before joining VCU, I gained research experience in materials chemistry and catalysis in Egypt. My current work integrates electrocatalysis and additive manufacturing to enhance battery performance. I am passionate about advancing clean energy technologies and contributing to a more sustainable future. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring new cultures.
Favorite spot in Richmond: Maymont Park and James river: Both are peaceful places where I enjoy spending time with my family and connecting with nature.
Name: Zehra Sahin Ilkorkor
Hometown and country: Turkiye
Year or level: Ph.D.
Major: Public Policy & Administration
Tell us a little about yourself:
As an international Ph.D. student in Public Policy & Administration, I have been actively working to elevate the voices and experiences of international students across various platforms. I am passionate about exploring different cultures and have visited 30 countries so far. I am excited to build strong relationships with fellow international students, contribute to a vibrant exchange of ideas, and help make a meaningful impact on the international student community at VCU.
Favorite spot in Richmond: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Name: Jackie Otieno
Hometown and country: Kenya
Year or level: Ph.D.
Major: Health Psychology
Tell us a little about yourself:
I am a Kenyan Ph.D. student in Health Psychology, with a focus on HIV prevention and management, particularly in the Context of aging with HIV. I am passionate about supporting student success, currently as a graduate mentor, and assisting international students with their academic and cultural transitions. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new dishes and visiting Richmond’s international markets, like 2 Fish and 5 Loaves and Goodness and Mercy, which offer a taste of home. I look forward to contributing my experience and insights to the ISSAB.
Favorite spot in Richmond: International Markets
Name: Sonika Singla
Hometown: India
Year or level: Ph.D.
Major: Information Systems
Tell us a little about yourself:
Hi! I am Sonika Singhal, a Ph.D. candidate in Information Systems at the VCU School of Business. My research focuses on AI governance, digital platforms, and cybersecurity, exploring how technology shapes trust and decision-making. I am passionate about bridging research and real-world impact through data-driven insights.
As an ISSAB board member, I enjoy connecting students, fostering collaboration, and building a stronger graduate community. Outside of academia, I love learning new things and meeting people from diverse backgrounds.
Name: Amala Kavumkandathiul Sreekumar
Hometown: India
Year or level: Ph.D.
Major: Integrative Lifesciences
Tell us a little about yourself:
My name is Amala K.S. (she/her). I am a first year Phd student at ILS program. I work at Virginia Institute of Psychiatiric Genetics at MCV campus. I am from Kerala, India. Outside of work I like art, movies, food and photography. Fun fact: I speak four languages!
Name: Angela Vega Vega
Hometown and country: Mexico
Year: Undergraduate
Major: Fashion Design
Tell us about yourself:
I’m Angela Vega Vega, a fashion design student at VCU originally from Mexico, and my work centers on storytelling, heritage, and identity. As an international student, I’ve learned how powerful it is to carry your roots with you, and I bring that mindset into every project I create. My design practice blends craftsmanship with cultural inspiration, especially through charro elements and global experiences like studying abroad in Florence. I’m passionate about building community and supporting other students who, like me, are navigating life far from home. I believe creativity becomes stronger when we share our stories and backgrounds with each other. I hope to help make VCU a more welcoming and connected space for all international students.
Favorite spot in Richmond: Belle Isle after coffee