International Student Activities

Meet your International Student Ambassador

Want to talk to a current Houston Community College student?

International Student Ambassadors (ISAs) are current international students ready to share their experiences, answer your questions, and help other international students throughout their journey. Please contact us and we will try to connect you with a student from your region.

Paulina Rizk
Country: Ukraine and Lebanon
Major: Business Administration

I'm Paulina Rizk, proudly representing HCC as an International Ambassador. My roots trace back to Ukraine and Lebanon, countries that have shaped my worldview profoundly.

My academic journey revolves around a Business A.A. major, but my passion extends far beyond textbooks. Growing up in Saudi Arabia, then moving to Lebanon and finally the US, has blessed me with a deep appreciation for diversity and unity. 

Throughout my school years, I've always been an active participant, whether in sports, student council, or now as the President of Central Campus SGA. I thrive in team settings and cherish the opportunity to contribute to something larger than myself. 

Being multilingual—fluent in English, Arabic, Russian, and Spanish—has opened countless doors for me to connect with people from different backgrounds.

I'm equally drawn to the arts, with a love for acting and music, which enriches my understanding of cultures worldwide. 

As your International Ambassador, I'm excited to foster a vibrant international community at HCC. 

Let's collaborate, celebrate our diversity, and create meaningful initiatives together. I can't

Eunice Bawa
Country: Mali
Major: Biology
Email: W215162866student@hccs.edu

Hello! My name is Eunice Bawa, and I'm honored to serve as an International Student Ambassador. Hailing from the vibrant cultures of Mali and Nigeria, I bring a unique perspective to our diverse campus community. I am fluent in both French and English, which allows me to connect with a wide range of students and staff. Currently, I am pursuing a major in Biology, driven by a passion for understanding the complexities of life and contributing to advancements in health and science. As an ambassador, my goal is to support fellow international students in their academic and social journey, helping them to thrive and feel at home. Whether it's navigating campus resources, adjusting to a new environment, or sharing insights about our cultures, I'm here to assist and inspire. Looking forward to connecting with you and making our campus a welcoming place for all!

Fabia Neto
Country: Angola
Major: Business Administration
Email:W214174775@student.hccs.edu

Hello, my name is Fabia Neto; I am from Angola. I am studying Business Administration at HCC. The beginning of my journey at HCC was really challenging, mostly to adapt to a new educational system, where I had to adjust myself to respond to different tasks and meet the expectations. As international students we come with a lot of expectations, goals and also doubts. The experience turned out to be joyful when I decided to overcome the fear of the unknown.

When struggling, remember that other students experienced similar challenges. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; the journey becomes easier when we seek the help that we need. That’s why I am here. As an international ambassador my goal is to help you and share my experiences. You may be far from home, but you are not alone. Don’t hesitate to contact me, I am here to help you in this new journey, here at HCC.

Ojienomo Mafe
Country: Nigeria
Major: Health and Medical Sciences
Email:W214354396@student.hccs.edu

Hello, my name is Ojienomo Mafe. As an International Student Ambassador at Houston Community College (HCC), I am dedicated to supporting and guiding fellow international students through their educational journey. Currently pursuing my second degree in Health and Medical Sciences, I am passionate about promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment for our diverse student body.

Houston Community College boasts a large and vibrant international student population, representing over 100 countries. This diversity enriches our campus culture and fosters a global learning experience. As an ambassador, my role involves assisting international students with their transition to life in Houston, providing academic and personal support, and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed.

I strive to help international students adapt to a new educational system and connect with the broader campus community. My goal is to empower them to achieve their academic and career aspirations while also encouraging cultural exchange and understanding.

By leveraging my own experiences as an international student, I hope to create a supportive network that enhances the educational experience for all international students at HCC. Together, we can make the most of the opportunities available and contribute to the rich tapestry of our college community.

Welcome to HCC, where your journey of growth, learning, and success begins. Let's make the most of this opportunity together!

Pavitra Patil
Country: India
Major: Computer Science
Email: pavitrapatil333@gmail.com

Hey, I am Pavitra Patil. I was born in India and moved to the United States in 2023 for my Computer Science major. After coming here, I planned to spend two years at the University of Houston Downtown (UHD) and two years at Houston Community College (HCC). I transferred out of UHD after the first semester and decided to go to HCC. Not only did I make my first new friend, but the campus was also conveniently close to my house.

Don't be afraid of making new friends and talking to other students. You might feel you don't belong at first, but that feeling goes away as you open yourself up more. Remember that there are other international students who might feel the same way.

HCC provides plenty of resources to help international students succeed in their journey, making it easier to navigate through things. Whenever I had a question, I asked my Designated School Official (DSO) or the academic advisors for help, and they always assisted me with whatever question or problem I had. I can also help if you have any questions; I'll be your friend and advocate throughout your time at HCC.

Just be yourself and work hard to pursue your dream. The journey may seem long, but the treasure at the end is worth it.

Syeda Madiha Masood 
Country: India
Major: Computer Science
Email: W214093941@student.hccs.edu

Hello! My name is Syeda Madiha Masood. I was born in India, and grew up in Doha, Qatar. For my bachelor's degree, I moved to the United States, my dream country for studying. This journey led me to HCC, where I joined as a Computer Science student. It was one of the best decisions I ever made, and I feel truly blessed to be part of this vibrant community.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have a passion for basketball. I was the captain of my school basketball team, which instilled in me leadership and teamwork skills that I cherish.

I was also an active member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) at HCC. During my time with NSLS, I had various learning  sessions and interactions with fellow students.

As a student ambassador, I am excited to help incoming students navigate their college experience. I look forward to meeting and assisting you in your journey at HCC!

Yaye Seck
Country: Senegal

Hello, my name is Yaye Awa Seck and I come from Senegal. After my high school journey, I decided to come to Houston Community college to pursue my higher education. At first, I hesitated because I didn't want to leave my parents and friends. But wanting to pursue my dream and help my family, I was able to make this difficult choice.

Today, I don't regret it. Because HCC helps me explore my area of interest at an affordable price. Outside of the classroom, HCC has many opportunities, events, and student organizations that help me explore my other passions, develop my leadership skills, and make lifelong friends.

If you are a newly admitted international student at HCC, I welcome you. And as an ISA, I will do my best to guide you, answer your questions, and help you explore the opportunities that HCC has to offer.

Iris Ramos
Country: El Salvador
Major: Psychology
Email: w214965526@student.hccs.edu

My name is Iris Ramos, I am from El Salvador. I studied Psychology in my country, and I have more than 10 years of experience attending vulnerable population and community work together with a multidisciplinary team of professionals. I have expertise in psychological intervention for children and adolescents with administrative and judicial measures for protection for violations of rights. Also, I have experience intervention in psychological first aid to the general population, to face crisis and implementation of workshops with children, adolescents, youth, and adults. I decided to come to the United States with my family to obtain better academic preparation that would allow me to generate significant changes in the lives of many people.

Studying at Houston community college has generated positive changes on a personal and professional level and has also allowed me to interact with extraordinary teachers and classmates who have motivated me during difficult times. In my role as an international student ambassador, I want to help many new students to be resilient in the face of every challenge in this new stage of their life. I also want to enjoy each activity and learn from the other ambassadors and mentors who are part of our team. I am a very sociable, reliable person and I enjoy every interaction with other people, I am here to support you. Success in achieving all your goals, remember that most limitations are only in our minds.

Marko Stosic
Country: Serbia
Major: Business
Email: markostosicwork@gmail.com

Hello, my name is Marko Stosic. I am an international student from Serbia currently majoring in Business. Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to visit America, and I know that many other kids share the same dream. A year ago, I found out about Houston Community College and decided to come here to pursue my education. Many people helped me on my journey, and I wouldn't be here without them. Those people are the reason I joined the International Student Ambassadors, as I want to give back. I want to help new international students and make their journey easier.

Quang Le
Country: Vietnam
Major: Business Administration
Email:W215474710@student.hccs.edu

Born and raised in My Tho City, Vietnam, I have navigated the challenges of being an F1 student with resilience and determination. Currently, I  am honored to serve as an International Student Ambassador at Houston Community College (HCC), representing the institution on a global stage. With a passion for fostering a supportive academic environment, I am dedicated to ensuring that both new and current students at HCC have a fulfilling and successful educational journey.

Jemima Irabor-Ighedosa
Country: Nigeria
Major: Business
Email:W218641502@student.hccs.edu

Hello, my name is Jemima Irabor-Ighedosa, an international student from Nigeria. I am a mother of four children who took on the challenge and privilege of HCC. It is my pleasure to be serving as your ISA and to heartily welcome you to HCC. You are in the right place at the right time today and all the help you will ever need here to excel and do well is available already; all you need to do is ask. The HCC promise is real and as a beneficiary and participant, it will be my honor to show you how to take advantage of all the possibilities and help you hold up the beacon of light. Welcome to your zone of advantage. Don’t forget, I am here to help you in any way possible.