Alumni Voices
Upon returning home, Global UGRAD alumni embark on remarkable journeys, achieving academic excellence, personal growth, and professional milestones that inspire and impress. Below, three recent alumni shared updates with us about their post-UGRAD activities.
Abdulaziz Isomov | Uzbekistan | San Francisco State University | Spring 2023
“Over the Thanksgiving holiday in 2024, I was in New York City for 20 days. I was so honored to be invited to the annual summit of Condé Nast Traveler Magazine as the top travel specialist from Uzbekistan. It was truly an amazing experience engaging in meetings and networking events with travel specialists in New York and other cities.
I would like to express my gratitude to the U.S. Department of State and World Learning for the life-changing experience I gained through the Global UGRAD Program. That opportunity opened so many doors and created friendships and memories that I continue to cherish to this day. Staying connected with my UGRAD friends and reflecting on the incredible experiences we shared always fills me with gratitude.”
Faith Nyirenda | Malawi | West Liberty University | Fall 2023
“I am excited to share that I recently organized a public lecture on the Global UGRAD Program at the Catholic University of Malawi. The university enthusiastically supported the idea, and the students were thrilled to learn about the program from me as an alumna. The event helped raise awareness about the Global UGRAD Program, which was not well-known among the students beforehand. I am delighted to report that there has been a significant increase in interest in the program, and many students have expressed enthusiasm about applying for the current application window.
I am also thrilled to share that I have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Special Education, earning a distinction. This achievement would not have been possible without the skills and knowledge I gained during my time on the Global UGRAD Program.”
Yojanny Estebania Ramírez Arvelo | Dominican Republic | Xavier University of Louisiana | Spring 2024
“Since returning home, I’ve adjusted well to life in the Dominican Republic. However, I’ve noticed a significant shift in my approach to various aspects of my life, particularly after experiencing the education system in the United States and participating in the Global UGRAD End of Program Workshop. I’ve always had a passion for travel and cultural exchange and I knew that education would be my vehicle to achieve this. Now, I feel even more driven and with a greater sense of purpose. I am less daunted by challenges because, as a Global UGRAD alumna, I’ve realized that many opportunities are within my reach.
Currently, I am employed at an international NGO in the Dominican Republic, where I work as a fundraising coordinator. I lead several initiatives to increase local fundraising and I organized our first benefit event which took place at the end of October. I initially joined this organization as a volunteer and now I oversee the volunteer program—a full-circle moment I deeply cherish.
Community work has always been close to my heart, as I believe that true change and transformation are driven by the people, for the people. This role allows me to not only listen and empathize with others but also to provide tangible support by securing the resources needed to sustain impactful projects over time.”