| Role |
Name, Program & Bio |
Photo |
President
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Essien Oku Essien
PhD Program in Communication, Culture & Media
College of Arts and Sciences
Essien Oku Essien is the President of the International Graduate Students Association and a PhD student in the Department of Communication, Culture, and Media Studies where he explores Social Construction, Semiotics, and Media Effects. Essien also explores Climate Change Misinformation (CCM) on social media and African Cosmology. He has won several Emerging Scholar Awards from different social science research networks at research conferences around the World, and he holds a First-Class (Honors) Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the Cross River University of Technology, Nigeria. Essien’s numerous research publications and conference presentations as well as his active involvement in the actualization of the UN-SDGs had earned him an Award of Recognition from the Thirst Foundation, Melbourne, Australia, delegation to the World Bank Group Youth Summit held at the World Bank HQ, W-DC as well as other international recognitions. With a strong background in leadership, project management, budgeting, and administration, Essien aims to champion initiatives that empower international students to thrive both academically and culturally. His leadership centers on inclusivity, innovation, and a commitment to creating a vibrant and supportive community for all international graduate students.
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Vice President of Student Affairs
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Mobish Abraham Shaji
PhD Program in Mechanical Engineering
College of Engineering
As a PhD candidate, my research focuses on using the fourth state of matter (plasma) to treat microplastics in water and enhancing the output of gasification processes. The role of Vice President (Students Affairs), which I am honored to serve presents me the opportunity to make positive contributions to Drexel's international graduate student community. Especially focusing on activities that can aid with the academic experience of international graduate students at Drexel. My non-academic interest includes public speaking. I was the runner-up for a Toastmasters (an international Public speaking organization) area-level speech contest last year; and volunteered in my church.
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Vice President of Operations
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Ive-Anwuli Ralph-Uyalor
PhD Program in Biological Sciences
College of Arts and Sciences
In my life as a PhD candidate in biology, I am deeply immersed in understanding the intricacies of cell migration. Outside the lab, I find balance in exploring the outdoors, cooking and just having fun. As vice president of operations of the IGSA, I’m focused on ensuring that our activities run smoothly and that our diverse community thrives. Coming from a very diverse country like Nigeria, I understand the importance of diversity and inclusion. It is my goal to foster a supportive and collaborative environment where every student can contribute meaningfully to our collective success.
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| Treasurer |
​Sonika Lamichhane
PhD Program in Communication, Culture & Media
College of Arts and Sciences
Sonika Lamichhane is a second-year PhD student in Communication, Culture, and Media Studies (CCM). Her research focuses on social media, misinformation, fake news, and digital media, exploring their broader societal impacts. Sonika's work has garnered significant recognition, with numerous publications addressing social media and contemporary issues. As the Treasurer of the International Graduate Student Association (IGSA), she is responsible for managing the budget and maintaining precise financial records. She aims to contribute to the association's success by ensuring its financial practices effectively support its goals.
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| Event Coordinator |
Nikhil Gulia
Master's Program in Business Analytics
LeBow College of Business
I am an organized and energetic individual with a strong background in event planning and project management. My experience includes coordinating events, managing budgets, and working with diverse teams, which equips me with a keen eye for detail and creative problem-solving skills. As the Event Coordinator for the International Graduate Student Association, I am eager to leverage these skills to create memorable, seamless experiences and foster a vibrant, inclusive community for international graduate students.
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| Director of Academic Events |
Mathieu Ndong
Master's Program in Business Analytics
LeBow College of Business
I am a dual citizen of Gabon and Senegal with a deep passion for sciences and statistics. I hold a bachelor's degree in physics from Indiana University, where I served as a Senator in the student government. My experience as an international student highlighted the value of schools as hubs for exchanging ideas with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in Business Analytics at Drexel University, with the goal of furthering my career in data-driven businesses. As the Academic Events Director, I am committed to fostering an environment where international students can collaborate, discuss, and network with peers, enhancing career opportunities in both industry and research.
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| Director of Cultural Events |
Rishikesh Chulan
Master's Program in Chemistry
College of Arts and Sciences
I come from the island of Mauritius. Having grown up in a diverse and multicultural environment, I am keen to foster mutual understanding and dialogue through learning about other cultures and sharing my own. When I am not studying Chemistry, I like to travel and learn new languages.
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Director of Social Events
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Sai Kunal Malla
Master's Program in Robotics and Autonomy
College of Engineering
I'm Kunal, and I'm thrilled to be the Director of Social Events for the International Graduate Student Association. Outside of college, I'm a passionate dancer, a budding artist, and a curious explorer of new languages and cultures. As Director of Social Events, I aim to foster a cohesive and inclusive community by organizing events that promote cultural exchange, intercultural competence, and social networking. I'll strive to create a safe, accessible, and engaging environment where students can connect, learn from one another, and build lasting friendships. To achieve these goals, I plan to organize a variety of events that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds, such as cultural festivals, game nights, movie screenings, and social gatherings. I'll also collaborate with other student organizations and community partners to create opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and networking. Additionally, I'll utilize social media and other digital platforms to promote events, facilitate communication, and build community. I prioritize inclusivity and accessibility in all of our events, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and included. Let's make this year a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange and unforgettable experiences!
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| Director of Social Media & Public Relations |
Alpa West Sannoh
Master's Program in Communication, Culture & Media
College of Arts and Sciences
As a Director of Public Relations and Social Media for IGSA, I am excited to bring my public service, public relations, and digital marketing expertise to the role. As a graduate student in Communication, Culture, and Media Studies, I have developed a strong foundation in strategic communication and journalism, which I am eager to apply to the organization's efforts. I have set my goal to let IGSA be visible, connect meaningfully with this community, and effectively communicate our efforts to a much wider audience. I am dedicated to using my skills to ensure the message resonates and our impact grows.
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