International student perspectives
International CEHD students past and present share their thoughts and reminiscences.
Austria
Johanna Ennser-Kananen is an associate professor of English at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland. She studied in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) at CEHD, graduating in 2014. “In one of my first seminars, the whole class started singing ‘Do-Re-Mi’ when I said I was from Austria,” she says. “I hadn’t even watched Sound of Music back then. It was the nicest use of a cliché I have ever encountered, and I am still in touch with several of my peers from that group.”
Building lasting networks and friendships like this was one of the most important aspects of her time at CEHD, she says. “Connection building may be more important than homework,” she says.
Japan
In 2007, Sachiko Yokoi decided to move from Japan to pursue a PhD at the University of Minnesota. She completed her PhD in 2012 and began a career as a professor at Osaka University, Japan.
“More than a decade after earning my PhD, I remain in contact with my Department of Curriculum and Instruction professors,” she says. “The connections I made with them are invaluable, as they continue to support and mentor me in various ways.”
While studying in C&I, Yokoi worked as a graduate assistant, supervising student-teachers. “This experience helped me develop the skills I use in my current job, where I supervise a few student-teachers each year,” she says. “The mentoring techniques I learned back then are something I still rely on as I help students prepare to start their careers in education.”
She also worked as a research assistant at the Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition (CARLA) and learned how to design, conduct, and present research in the field of Second Language Acquisition (SLA).
“In sum, whether through mentoring prospective teachers, conducting research on multilingualism, or collaborating across disciplines, the training, mentorship, and research experiences I obtained through CEHD have been essential to shaping the researcher and educator I am today,” she says. “I am deeply grateful for the foundation I have built during my years at the University of Minnesota, as it continues to inspire my current and future endeavors.”
Pakistan
Tasneem Anwar is an assistant professor at Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development in Karachi, Pakistan. Her time in the doctoral program in STEM education at CEHD stands out as a cherished experience, she says. “From the vibrant homecoming week in September 2012 to engaging in deep philosophical discussions on the nature of science with Dr. Fred Finley, every moment was memorable,” she says. “Collaborating with Dr. Gillian Roehrig on curriculum design, conducting reflective coaching at Saint Paul Public Schools, and presenting at CEHD Research Day were highlights that enriched my academic journey and personal growth.”
Anwar says she owes much of her success to the unwavering support and mentorship she received at the University.
“The University of Minnesota and CEHD have always welcomed international students with open arms,” she says. “I fondly recall our diverse graduate group at the STEM Center, which we jokingly called the ‘United Nations,’ with students from Egypt, Pakistan, India, Turkey, Malaysia, and Ghana. My advice to new international students is to embrace this welcoming environment and be open to learning from everyone—your professors, peers, and even your roommates. Engage fully in the diverse community around you; it will enrich your experience in ways you can’t imagine.”
China
Angie Jin, a former sport management student, says her favorite experience as an international student was participating in the Culture Corps Career STAR Program.
“As a peer leader, I had the opportunity to mentor and support international students, helping them navigate University academic and cultural transitions,” she says. “This role allowed me to share my experiences, offer guidance on resources, and build a welcoming community for students facing similar challenges. I developed valuable leadership and communication skills while fostering a sense of belonging. The experience was advantageous, as I saw students grow more confident and empowered throughout the program, reinforcing my passion for supporting others in their journeys.”
Taiwan
For Ryan Cheng, one of his favorite memories was kinesiology orientation day, where he met the staff and academic advisors for his kinesiology program. “I remember the lecture and reaching out for research opportunities and course registration,” he says. “I met some people who just declared their majors and we talked about our future plans and classes.”
Cheng has found CEHD very welcoming where he can easily reach out to both academic and career advisors. “It helps me to prepare by exploring my career and making sure I am on the right track,” he says. “There are many opportunities for my career path. I plan to become a physical therapist and Minnesota has one of the best healthcare systems in the nation.”
Philippines
Rose Marie Jane Rementina, a special education MA student, is most appreciative of how approachable her advisor and professors are at CEHD. “I was pleasantly surprised by how open, understanding, and respectful they are with our time and how we express ourselves,” she says.
“They provide us with a safe space, a non-judgmental environment, and helpful resources and feedback on all our work and concerns. As a student-professional, this kind of learning support helps me build my confidence, increase my curiosity and independence in learning, and heighten my passion and joy in my field.”
Finding your community can be tough when you’re in a new place, Rementina says. “Making genuine friendships takes effort, especially when everyone has their own schedule,” she explains. “Despite being busy with our responsibilities and tasks, it’s important to seek out groups or organizations that align with our values and priorities. This can help us create meaningful memories and experiences with people and places, whether they’re within or outside the state.”
Israel
Belaynesh Mekonen is an Ethiopian-Israeli scholar who spent 2022-23 as a post-doctoral fellow at CEHD, supervised by Professor Kendall King in C&I. “My favorite memories are my relationship with my supervisor and the team at the University and the experience of being part of the University’s student community in the wide, beautiful, and pastoral space,” Mekonen says. “These were two very meaningful years for me. I was exposed to people, programs, and students that expanded the circles of acquaintances and the opportunity to work in cooperation. I met diverse people from so many countries, cultures, and languages, which broadened my knowledge and horizons. Making connections is one of the most important things in the academy, so it is important to host international students.”