Student Advisory Board

CIRCLE Student Advisory Board (SAB) is an international student committee that offers guidance to CIRCLE’s professional staff on dealing with the unique needs of the international students at the University of Washington. The principles of the board center around the engagement and advocacy for international student interests at the University of Washington’s Seattle campus by:

Consulting and engaging with CIRCLE staff to provide student perspectives and input on programs and initiatives related to international students on Seattle campus.
Rendering and formalizing international student opinions on topics of interest to the international student body to impact University Administration, influencing policy and direction of campus affairs.
Providing and advocating for a space and environment for international students to partake in the administrative and legislative processes of the University, and increase international student representation at critical campus affairs discussions.
Taking initiatives to enhance international student experiences and to promote student success.

Meet our 2023-2024 Board Members

Avid traveler, Architect by heart and soul, Nature lover, and train traveler, love to meet people from diverse backgrounds and get to know their journeys, their lives and interesting stories along the way, especially funny tragic stories, they have made me what I am today.

I’m Jood, an international student from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I’m currently a Junior majoring in Oceanography. I love music, films, and crocheting!

Hey everyone, my name is Manya Oswal and I am a sophomore intending to major in MCD Biology. I am an avid dog lover (I have 4 of my own) and if you ever need any metal music recommendations, you can always come to me. In my free time, I love playing the drums, cooking, playing badminton, and sleeping!

Chithira Unnikrishnan Melambat Kalappurayil

I am Chithira Unnikrishnan, fluent in both English and Malayalam. Little Women is my favorite read, and soccer is my favorite sport. Beyond that, my pastimes involve reading, writing, hiking, and actively participating in sports.

I’m Zoe, a sophomore student and undergraduate teaching assistant pursuing major in informatics and minor in music. I grew up in the Ice City Harbin, China, and I went to Florida for high school. As a Kpop enthusiast, I enjoy connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and making friends around the globe. Don’t hesitate to say “Hi” when you spot me on campus!

I always believe everything happens for a reason, hence, BE POSITIVE and STAY STRONG everyone!

Hi, I am a junior at the University of Washington in Seattle. I love cooking, dancing, and hiking with my friends. My studies focus on the field of education and I hope to contribute to the cause of education in the future.

As a Chinese student passionate about supporting international students at UW, I’m here to advocate for and improve our campus experiences. I’m always available if you need help or want to share your stories!

Ornie is a third-year international undergraduate studying Bioengineering at UW, while actively engaging in leadership training. She conducts research in the Kaeberlein Lab, studying cell-to-cell variation in gene expression. Currently serving as the Vice President of Undergraduate Affairs for SEBA and as the Fundraising Chair for the Bangladeshi Students Association.

Riffat Ara Shawon is a PhD candidate specializing in Epidemiology at the School of Public Health, University of Washington (UW). Originating from Bangladesh, Shawon earned her medical degree and later pursued a Master’s in Epidemiology from her home country. Shawon’s commitment to her career is deeply rooted in her love for her community, both in her native Bangladesh and her current home, Seattle. She is most passionate about experiencing life with the eyes of an explorer.