International Student Advisory Board

Cesar Iturerere Cyuzuzo is a 4th-year PhD student in the Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Program (MPAT) at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. He is a recipient of the Medical School Dean’s Distinguished Graduate Fellowship and the 2024 Clinical Translational Science Institute Awards. His PhD thesis projects aim to examine the role of DNA damage in the etiology of Aging and Alzheimer’s disease using novel mass spectrometry-based technologies. Outside the lab, Cesar enjoys playing guitar, working out, and playing lots of volleyball. 

I am a molecular anthropologist in the Department of Anthropology. My research focuses on reconstructing population histories and adaptations in Eastern Africa by analyzing genetic diversity. My PhD work involves collaborating with diverse local communities, which has provided me with a strong foundation for engaging effectively with multicultural groups. Serving on the international students' advisory board has allowed me to advocate for international students by bringing their specific concerns to the relevant university bodies.

Hello! I’m Flor, and I’m from Tecpán, Guatemala. I am a junior studying Psychology, with minors in Developmental Psychology and Family & Community Engagement. Around campus, you can see me doing a little bit of everything, working at the office, conducting research with the Institute of Child Development, or participating as a member of the CLA Student Board.
Outside of my commitments, I love painting, crafting, watching movies, and going for walks in the park with friends. I am really excited to be part of ISAB and to contribute to our international community at UMN by helping create a welcoming and diverse environment where people can find a second home away from home!

Hana is a PhD student at Carlson School of Management from Croatia, in the Work & Organizations program. Within ISAB, she hopes to serve as a connection between international student voices and administration. Additionally, she hopes to contribute to important discussions about cultural diversity and how to make Minnesota an inclusive community that welcomes everyone.

Hi! I’m Jae-Hee (she/her,) a junior studying psychology. I’m Korean but grew up in Botswana. I’m passionate about building community, connecting with people from different backgrounds, and getting involved on campus. I currently serve as Vice President of the CLA Student Board and play on the Club Softball team. Outside of school, I enjoy watching and playing sports, cooking and baking, exploring new places, trying new foods, and spending time with family and friends!

Kavy Pathirana is a Sri Lankan PhD candidate in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior and the Senior Facilitator for the International Student Advisory Board. In this role, she leads student consultations and helps bring international students’ perspectives, experiences, and ideas to campus decision-making. She is passionate about creating spaces for meaningful dialogue, strengthening connections across communities, and helping international students feel a stronger sense of belonging at the University of Minnesota. Through her work with ISAB, she hopes to help build a campus where international students feel heard, supported, and empowered to shape their university experience.

I am an international student from Guatemala and a third-year undergraduate student double majoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurial Management, with a minor in Managing People and Organizations, at the Carlson School. As a Global Intern, Outreach Ambassador, and member of Global Minnesota, I'm excited to be part of ISAB and share new ideas on how to better serve and support our international community at the University of Minnesota. My main goal is to help create a welcoming environment and sense of belonging for all our global students. I am here to be a resource for YOU!

I'm a Junior at the Carlson School of Management from Uzbekistan, majoring in Finance, MIS, and International Business. I’m passionate about problem-solving, leadership development, and fostering inclusive communities. Through active involvement in student organizations, I aim to support my peers, uplift international student voices, and contribute to a collaborative University of Minnesota experience.

Hi everyone, I’m Sasinindu (Nindu) Patabendige from Sri Lanka. I’m a PhD student in Comparative Literature and previously, I was a Fulbright Master’s Fellow in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at U of M. This is my fourth year as an international student in Minnesota. Alongside my academic work, I'm drawn towards student engagement and advocacy, especially, in a context where universities and international education are confronted with unprecedented challenges.