The Office of International Students and Scholars recently selected 24 volunteer leaders as Cross Cultural Mentors for the 2021-2022 academic year. The students are selected based on their skills and passion for working with international students on campus.

Composed of both domestic and international students, mentors undergo thorough training in preparation to help students transition smoothly to the U of A academically, culturally, and socially. The Cross Cultural Mentor leadership program is a crucial part of new international students’ positive transitions to the University of Arkansas, and to life in Fayetteville.

International students can face unique challenges in their adjustment to university life. The CCM program was developed specifically to assist these students during the acclimation period, as well as provide the opportunity for connection and friendships.

Muhammad Ali Muhammad, a second-year mentor, was recently named Outstanding Cross Cultural Mentor of the Year award. Muhammad consistently displays the qualities of leadership, encouragement and dedication that the program is built on.

“My first semester at the University of Arkansas was a lot easier and more fun because of the CCMs who helped welcome me to campus,” Muhammad said. “I knew that I wanted to join the program myself after my interactions with the CCMs. In my opinion, being a CCM is the easiest way to help other international students settle and make their experience as great as mine was.”

Michelle Clark, also a returning mentor, said she believes the program creates an environment that leads to a “greater ability to empathize and a deeper understanding of the world.” Clark said she wanted to be involved with the CCM program to continue expanding on leadership and cross-cultural communication skills she has learned through her participation.

The CCM team is currently assisting summer orientation activities and preparing for fall orientation. Mentors will participate in orientation activities including pre-arrival communication to address student concerns, and community building activities throughout orientation week.

2021-22 Cross Cultural Mentors

Collin Petigna, U.S. (undergraduate)

Grace Martin, U.S. (undergraduate)

Jason Hoang, U.S. (undergraduate)

Jiun Kim, South Korea (undergraduate)

Jonathan Swain, U.S. (graduate)

Katherine Chamberlin, U.S. (undergraduate)

Kenshi Kawade, Japan (undergraduate)

Madison Moss, U.S. (undergraduate)

Mahboobeh Hemmati, Iran (graduate)

Maria Morales, Panama (undergraduate)

Maria Rene Arandia Jimenez, Bolivia (graduate)

Michelle Clark, U.S. (undergraduate)

Muhammad Ali Muhammad, Pakistan (undergraduate)

Najee Stubbs, The Bahamas (undergraduate)

Putu Pujiantari, Indonesia (graduate)

Rachel Stringer, U.S. (undergraduate)

Ryan Moh, Malaysia (undergraduate)

Sai Vanteru, India (undergraduate)

Sarah Khot, U.S. (undergraduate)

Sherjeel Naeem, U.S. (undergraduate)

Shivani Merchant, India (undergraduate)

Sullany Ayala, Panama (undergraduate)

Talal Alruwaily, Saudi Arabia (undergraduate)

Walkiris Mejia, Dominican Republic (graduate)