Commencement is a moment to look ahead and to recognize the journey that has brought each graduate to this important moment in their lives. As I reflect on the many different paths to Madison that our international students have taken, there are recurrent themes that emerge in their stories: growth, resilience, discovery, and the courage to embrace change.
Rose Mir Ramisa Raiyan, who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in economics and global health, stepped far beyond her comfort zone in deciding to come to UW–Madison. After traveling from Bangladesh to Wisconsin—a 25-hour journey—she adjusted to differences in time zones, and temperature, as she embraced opportunities to grow as a scholar, a leader, and as a person.
As a double major earning multiple certificates in several schools and colleges, Rose also distinguished herself through her deep engagement with International Student Services. Since her first year on campus, she has contributed through panels, volunteering, outreach, and two years of leadership on the International Student Services Advisory Board. Through this work—and many other campus leadership roles—Rose has created community, elevated student voices, and strengthened support systems for international Badgers seeking their spot on campus.
Chelsie Lin, who will graduate with a master’s degree in information science, came to UW–Madison after establishing a successful career in Taiwan. Pursuing a degree here meant stepping away from the stability and familiarity of friends, family, and career. It was a risk—but one she now knows was worth taking.
From her earliest days on campus, Chelsie sought out opportunities to build community and connection. She joined the W Project—a crash course in school spirit and traditions for news students. She bolstered her reputation in UX and AI with an internship. She took part in campus and community events. And she spent the holidays with her host family in Florida who she had connected with over a decade earlier during a cultural exchange program. In each of these experiences, Chelsie was reminded that she made the right decision in following her heart to UW–Madison.
While Rose and Chelsie’s stories reflect some of the paths taken by international students, their experiences resonate with undergraduates and graduate students across UW–Madison. Domestic students who participated in study abroad and international internships, learned a second or third language, took area studies classes, and engaged with communities beyond campus have also demonstrated a willingness to adapt, to engage deeply with difference, and to grow through new experiences.
Embracing uncertainty, seeking connection, and developing new perspectives are among the most enduring lessons of a UW–Madison education.
There are many more remarkable students I could highlight and hope you will read about several of those who incorporated international education and engagement into their college experience, whether in Madison, elsewhere in the United States, or in a destination in another part of the world.
Congratulations to all of our graduates. Whether your home is 25 minutes from campus or 25 hours away, I hope you will always see UW–Madison as a place where you belong. We look forward to seeing the paths you will forge and the impact you will have in your chosen field as you carry forward the experiences, relationships, and learning you cultivated here.
On, Wisconsin!