07/24/2026
Our ISSS Student Spotlight of the week is Afra Ibnat Chowdhury!
Country of Origin: Bangladesh
What is your favorite thing about Kent State?
Honestly, what I love most about Kent State is how welcoming and vibrant the campus community is. From my first semester, I’ve had the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, make lifelong friendships and participate in a variety of campus events. There is always something happening on campus, which makes student life exciting and helps everyone to feel connected. I also love how the university encourages students to get involved, through student organizations, campus activities, or leadership opportunities.
Why do you want to study in the United States?
I wanted to study in the United States because there are many great opportunities for academic and personal growth. At Kent State, I’ve been able to get involved beyond the classroom through undergraduate research assistant, the Honors College and extracurricular activities. These experiences have helped me gain practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for my future career in Computer Science.
What advice would you give another international student?
As an international student, I would say: say yes to new opportunities. Join student organizations, attend campus events, and connect with people from different cultures. Those experiences can make your college journey much more meaningful.
What is your favorite food?
Traditional Bengali cuisine, biryani, fish curry, bhorta, and Bengali sweets like roshmalai and chomchom.
