iScholar Dive with Hoang and Eshani

In this episode of iScholar Dive with Hoang and Eshani , we dive into the inspiring journey of Challana Tea, a PhD student in Chemistry and Biochemistry who grew up in Phnom Penh and has moved back and forth between Cambodia and the U.S. four times. He began his academic path studying pharmacological chemistry and is now completing his PhD at the University of California, San Diego, with graduatio...

How do you go from learning English to building a professional career in a new country? Ayuna shares her journey from Russia to the United States, transitioning from document management to biology. She began with English and community college classes before pursuing her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at UC San Diego. Listen to her story of resilience, learning, and the opportunities that shaped h...

This is our first episode featuring a fellow podcaster. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Silvia Vicenzi, who is now working in the business sector in industry. Silvia completed her bachelor’s degree in Italy, moved to the UK for an internship, pursued her master’s degree in Sweden, and then completed her PhD in Australia. After a postdoctoral position, she is now living and working in the Uni...

This is our first episode featuring a guest based outside of the United States. In this episode, we sit down with Sophie Strich, a PhD student in the Molecular and Cellular Biology of Diseases program at the Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria. Sophie completed her bachelor’s degree in Germany and moved to Austria for both her master’s and PhD training. She has also worked in a U.S. laborator...

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Lucia Cancelada, a chemist who has worked across government, industry, and academia in both Argentina and the United States. She shares her journey, experiences, and the lessons she has learned along the way.

In this episode, we sit down with Karla Rojas Garcia, a first-generation PhD student who shares the challenges, and defining moments that shaped her journey into higher education. From navigating middle school, high school, and college with no roadmap to balancing cultural expectations and personal dreams, her story reminds us of the resilience and determination behind every first-gen success.

In this episode of iScholar Dive with Hoang and Eshani , we welcome Pratyusha from Singapore, a country known for its dynamic blend of cultures, cutting-edge education, and global outlook. Our guest shares their academic journey from the Lion City to the United States, offering insights into how their Singaporean upbringing shaped their values, goals, and perspectives on life and learning.

In this episode, we sit down with Juan David, a PhD student in economics, originally from Colombia. We will talk about his path into the economic discipline, how growing up in Colombia shaped his academic interests, and what it is like to navigate graduate school as an international student.

In this episode, we sit down with our guest, Maia Livneh from Costa Rica to explore her personal and academic journey from Central America to the United States. We talk about the cultural values that shaped her upbringing, the challenges of adjusting to a new academic system, and how her identity as a Costa Rican continues to influence her perspective in research and life.

In this episode, we sit down with Rustam, a scientist at Scripps Research Institute, to explore his journey from Azerbaijan to the United States - and how his cultural roots continue to shape his perspective on both life and science

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Safal Shrestha, a scientist originally from Nepal, as he shares his remarkable journey - from a childhood in the foothills of the Himalayas to conducting cutting-edge research in the United States. We discuss the challenges of moving across continents, navigating cultural shifts, and the deep passion for science that has fueled his path. Let’s listen...

New to the U.S. and feeling overwhelmed about banking, credit scores, or budgeting? You’re not alone! In this episode, we sit down with our co-host, Dr. Eshani Hettiarachchi to break down the financial basics every international scholar and student should know - from saving to surviving inflation on a tight budget to start investing. Tune in for practical tips, real stories, and smart strategies t...

In this episode, we sit down with Yuko to hear about her unique academic journey. We dive into her experiences as an international student, the challenges and rewards of studying abroad, and how she navigates life as a graduate student in a demanding field like biochemistry.

Graduate school can be all-consuming, but many PhD students find balance and even extra income through side hobbies. In this episode, we sit down with Hyesoo and Jeewon, South Korean PhD students in chemistry and biochemistry to explore their creative passions outside the lab. From art and music to content creation and small businesses, we uncover how these scholars manage their time, fuel their c...

In this episode, we share candid insights into the unique challenges international students and scholars face, from cultural transitions to academic pressures, and how these experiences shaped Trusty's perspective on mental well-being. We discuss the importance of self-care, the role of resilience, and the lessons she has learned about balancing mental health with personal and professional gro...

In this episode, we speak with an inspiring guest, Dr. Duc Tran, whose journey spans continents and career paths. We’ll explore her insights into cultural adaptation, the contrasts between working in the U.S. and Vietnam, and the unique perspectives she’s gained through her international and interdisciplinary experiences.

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of soon-to-be Dr. Cholaphan Deeleepojananan, who arrived in the US to pursue her undergraduate and doctoral studies, with aspirations of going back to live and work in Thailand. She shares with us her experience in navigating the unchartered waters of adapting to a new culture, academic rigor, and personal growth. 

In this episode, we sit down with Amalia Villagrán-Suarez, a PhD student, researcher, and new mother, to discuss the art of juggling graduate school, work, life, and the arrival of a newborn. Amalia shares her personal journey, including the challenges and triumphs of navigating academia while balancing the demands of motherhood and family.

In this episode, we interview Yingnan, a professional working at Caltrans, who shares his journey of moving across countries, adapting to new environments, and thriving in life, academia, and the workplace.

In this episode, we delve into the art of achieving work-life balance in today's fast-paced world. Balancing professional responsibilities with personal life can be a daunting task, but it's essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being. Join us as we speak with Lincoln Mehndiratta, a chemistry PhD student, who has successfully navigated this challenge.

In this episode, we dive into the unique and often challenging experience of buying a house while juggling the demands of graduate school. Join us as we chat with Dr. Daphne, a PhD graduate who recently took the plunge into homeownership. Daphne shares her personal journey, from the initial decision to buy a house, through navigating the financial and logistical hurdles, to finally getting the key...

In this episode, we explore the journey from academia to industry with insights and advice from Dr. Bastian Ramms who have successfully made the switch. Discover practical tips on how to leverage your academic skills, identify the right industry roles, and adapt to the corporate environment.

In this episode, Sandra Vargas Tinoco, the assistant director of the International Faculty and Scholar Services, and Gabriela Hoffmann, the Assistant Director of International Experience and Engagement from the International Services and Engagement Office at UC San Diego, bring their wealth of knowledge to the table. They will answer pressing questions and shed light on the often complex visa land...

In this episode, Anand, a chemistry PhD candidate, shares his experience with networking, job hunting, and securing fellowships and internships.

In this episode, Dr. Munir Moacdieh shares his experience as an international medical graduate and discusses how he prepares himself to enter a residency program in the U.S.