Office of International Programs Student Employees

The Office of International Programs is proud to be supported by a diverse team of dedicated student employees who bring global perspectives, cultural awareness, and a passion for service to our office. As current students, they play a vital role in welcoming international students, supporting daily office operations, and assisting with programs and events that promote cross‑cultural engagement.

Sidorina Duraj, Lead International Student Services Assistant

Major: Pre-Finance

Rishit Dave, International Partnerships Student Assistant

Major: Public Health (Health Administration)

Minor: Chemistry

About me:

My name is Rishit Dave, and I am junior at Saginaw Valley State University. I am from India. I am majoring in Public Health with a minor in Chemistry. I serve as a Resident Assistant at Merry Jo Brandimore House and also work with the Office of International Programs. I enjoy connecting with people from different cultures and creating a welcoming community on campus. In the future, I hope to build a career in public health and make a positive impact on communities.

Asusena Gutierrez-Ramirez, Study Abroad Peer Advisor

Major: Teacher Education

Nadia Islam, International Student Services Assistant

Major: Pre-Nursing

Nazifa Islam, International Admissions and Recruiting Student Assistant

Major: Computer Science

Elizabeth Katt, OIP Graphics and Social Media Student Assistant

About me:

I'm Elizabeth Katt, a senior Graphic Design student here at SVSU! I am also a Creative Writing student and will most often be either drawing, writing, or watching cartoons when I'm not working or in class. I currently serve as the OIP office's Student Graphic Designer and Social Media Assistant, and I am very excited to help out with flyers and media outreach for the OIP office here on campus! 

Major: Graphic Design

Minor: Creative Writing

Richard Kiiza, OIP Student Assistant

About me:

Hi! I'm Richard Kiiza and I am from Tanzania working as a student assistant in the OIP office! I'm a junior here at SVSU and I am a nursing major. In addition, I work with housing and residential life operations. I love reading, going to the gym, playing music, walking, and mindful rests. I am very happy when it comes to meeting new people.

Major: Nursing

Lara Knoop, OIP Cultural Programming Student Assistant

Major: Psychology

Gabriel Rathke Bartholomay, Lead International Student Services Assistant

About me:

Hello! I’m Gabriel and I work as a Student Assistant here at the OIP. I’m a senior year Computer Science student from Brazil! It is currently my third and final year at SVSU. I am also the President of International Student Club. I love playing video games, playing basketball, going to the gym, playing music or just relaxing and listening to music. I love meeting new international students so if you want to chat, feel free to reach out or catch me at the office!

Major: Computer Science

Jack Shah, OIP Student Assistant

Major: Public Health

Kaylin Solack, Study Abroad Peer Advisor

Major: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, & Biomed

Emma Verstrate, International Partnerships Student Assistant

Major: Pre-Teacher Education