International graduate students enrich academic and cultural landscape
When Tania Akter ’25 Ph.D. (chemistry) arrived from Bangladesh, she was drawn by the University’s strong research programs. What she also found was a community so welcoming, she calls the years pursuing her Ph.D. “the best time of my life.” Today, she is beginning a new chapter as a senior quality lab scientist for Panasonic.
Akter, who served as president of the Graduate Student Association for the 2024-2025 academic year, represents one of the many stories that reflect the impact of the University’s international graduate students. Their numbers have grown by 80 percent in the past decade to 700 graduate students, representing 82 countries.
Through academic excellence, leadership and cultural exchange, international students enrich campus and community life. Nearly 90% serve as graduate assistants, contributing to teaching and research.
Many lead and participate in student organizations and cultural events, such as Unity in Diversity and Night of All Nations.
Like Akter, international students often remain in Nevada after graduation, bringing global perspectives that strengthen the state’s economy and connect the region to other parts of the world.
