The sponsored students who graduated from the University of Arkansas last month were recognized at a student appreciation event hosted by the Office of Sponsored Student Programs.  

Students who attended the event reflected on their time as students at the University of Arkansas.

"I had no idea where the University of Arkansas was when I came here, but now I realize it is the home of Senator Fulbright and it is an institution of great worth," said Isa Makhmudov, a new U of A alumnus who attended the university as a Fulbright Scholar from Russia. "I am so honored to have been a student here."

Sponsored student Nesreen Aljahdali, a fall 2017 U of A graduate of the cell and molecular biology graduate program, successfully defended her dissertation just minutes prior to the event. Her faculty adviser Frank Carbonero accompanied her to the event.

"These are the kinds of things we celebrate — the accomplishments of our students and the collaboration with their faculty advisers," said Gloria Flores Passmore, director of sponsored student programs.

Sponsored students are those who are funded by foreign governments, the U.S. government, domestic and international agencies, private companies and corporations. These international students, upon completion of their degrees or study abroad experience, return to their home countries and serve as important links between the United States, Arkansas and the U of A in business, government, education and industry.