Global Ties is a leadership and mentorship program at the University of Pittsburgh designed to support and integrate international students into the campus community through an event and programming lens. This program equips undergraduate students, both domestic and international, with global competency, programming, and cross-cultural communication skills to serve as mentors for incoming international students. The 16-19 selected student leaders undergo a rigorous interview process in February and a series of trainings to prepare them for mentorship and planning/executing Global Ties events. The students come from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds.
Contact Us
- Staff Advisors: wet45@pitt.edu & kyoungahlee@pitt.edu
Leadership Opportunities
Global Ties Mentors (GTMs) are enthusiastic individuals who promote international education and assist international students in their transition to the University community. GTMs are trained program coordinators who help create the cultural and educational programs within Global Ties. GTMs are also mentors for incoming undergraduate international students.
Current Global Ties Mentors
Pronouns: He/him/his
National Identity(ies): American
Language(s): English, Marathi, Hindi
Major: Finance and Business Information Systems
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Certificate in Data Analytics
Club(s): Alpha Kappa Psi, Pitt CSC, Pitt Management Consulting, TechForGood
Hello and welcome to Pitt! My name is Romit Kulkarni, a rising senior specializing in Finance and Business Information Systems. A little bit about me – I was born and raised in Pittsburgh and I proudly embrace my Indian heritage, with roots in Mumbai and Pune. I love to travel (having explored over 10 countries), attend concerts, embark on spontaneous adventures, and I love to talk business/tech/startups! Starting college can seem intimidating, but don’t worry – I’m here to help! Whether you just want to hang out, need some tips on your classes, or want the best food spots around Pittsburgh, feel free to reach out or say hi if you see me on campus! I can’t wait to meet everyone!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
National Identity(ies): Saudi Arabia
Language(s): English, Arabic
Major(s): Economics
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Anthropology Minor and Writing for the Professions Certificate
Hi everyone, and welcome to Pitt! My name is Tala, and I’m currently a junior/senior. Before coming to Pitt, I was studying at Trinity College Dublin. Pitt has quickly become my home, and I couldn't be happier about it! Without a doubt, my absolute favorite aspect of Pitt is its incredible community. Since being here, I've met some of my best friends. The people here are genuinely so nice and always ready to lend a helping hand. I can't wait for you to experience it. I am an international student from Saudi Arabia, but I lived in Florida for 12 years. Growing up, I went to a total of 12 schools, and that was the driving force behind me becoming a global ties mentor. This is my third year as a GTM, and I'm so excited to be back! As someone who has been the new student in a brand-new city numerous times, I know how overwhelming it can be. I'm here to help, so feel free to reach out whether it's about academics, the best places to eat, exploring the city, or just hanging out!
Pronouns: She/Her(s)
National Identity: South Korea
Language(s): English, Korean
Major(s): International Studies/Anthropology
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Swahili, Global Health and Wellbeing Certification
Hi everyone! I’m Yerin from South Korea. I’m an upcoming senior and a second-year Global Ties mentor. This is also my 11th year as an international student! Something about me is that I love talking to people with diverse backgrounds and learn their perspectives and cultures. So my junior year, I chose to study abroad in different countries and had such a great experience. Let me know if you have any questions or interest of going study abroad/exchange student as an international student! Or anything else.
Another passion of mine is cooking—especially Korean food—as a way to find comfort and reconnect with my roots. I know this time can feel scary and stressful, but please remember you’re not alone. I’m here if you need support or just someone to talk to.
Welcome to Pitt, and H2P!
Pronouns: he/him/his
National Identity(ies): Indian
Language(s): English, Hindi, Telugu
Major(s): Biological Sciences
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Chemistry Minor
Club(s): Student Government Board, Steel City Shershaah, Hooligans Soccer
Hello and welcome to Pitt! My name is Om and I’m a rising senior studying Biology on the Pre-Med track. As an international student from Bangalore, India, having also spent a good chunk of my childhood in the UK—all while changing schools almost every year—moving has become a part of my identity. As I began my journey of assimilating to another brand-new culture at Pitt, I realized that behind inevitable fears of not fitting in, there lies real comfort in the ability to experience and enjoy these cultures from our own unique perspectives. As a second-year Global Ties mentor, I look forward to sharing my experiences and learning from others who have been in the same place. I understand how tricky it can get navigating the culture shock and a newfound sense of freedom, while simultaneously discovering yourself and your interests in an uncharted territory. I’ve found collaboration within the international community to be a keystone to bridge this transformative experience. Pitt and the city of Pittsburgh always surprise me with something new, and a willingness to explore is all that one needs to be able to have an enriching experience. This is how I discovered a passion for dance, making music and a thirst for much more while also discovering goldmines in the city and incredible people along the way. Feel free to tag along as I continue to embark on such adventures! In person you can find me hanging around at Nordy’s Place, the Carnegie Library, the pianos in WPU, or at the Cost Center playing soccer on the weekends. I’m excited to meet everyone and playing a role in your transitions to Pitt!
Pronouns: She/her/hers
National Identity(ies): American
Language(s): English
Major(s): Pre-medicine (with an interest in neuroscience)
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Studio Arts minor, Conceptual Foundations of Medicine Certificate
Club(s): Pitt Dance Marathon, intramural volleyball & flag football.
Hi everyone!!! My name is Elizabeth, and I am so excited to meet you all! I go by Elizabeth, but a lot of my friends call me Liz so you can call me whatever you like. I was born in Detroit, Michigan, but now I live in New Jersey which is great because I love going to the beach. I am going to be a junior this year and hope to become a pediatrician in the future. Although I am on the pre-med track, I love to draw realism portraits of people and all things crafty! I also love to play the cello, try new foods and hobbies, travel, watch rom-coms, play volleyball, go shopping, cook, go to art fairs and hang out with my dog. I love Pittsburgh because there are so many opportunities to get off campus and do something fun. Some of my favorite things I did last year include ice skating downtown and riding the rollercoasters at Kennywood with my friends. If you ever need ideas for how to spend your weekends, I have a lot of suggestions! Going into freshman year, I was really intimidated and nervous. I promise it only takes a few weeks to settle in and meet the most amazing people. Although you can usually find me in Hillman Library studying, I would love to go out for coffee or just chat whenever you can! I hope you have a spectacular first year!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
National Identity(ies): Saudi Arabia and New Zealand
Language(s): English, Arabic
Major(s): Philosophy
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Creative Writing
Hi, my name is Tamara and welcome to Pittsburgh! I am a philosophy major, and I am minoring in creative writing, which means I do a lot of writing and a mountain of reading, some might call that a nightmare, but I’ll take that over an exam any day. I am embarking on my second semester as a senior and this is my second year as a global ties mentor, I’m so excited to help you make yourself at home in Pitt. It’s always daunting moving somewhere foreign and it takes time to find your footing, but as a mentor I’m someone you can lean on and rely on to navigate this new chapter! I’ve been in your shoes too and have lived to tell the tale, having moved every few years growing up. This is an exciting road ahead for you and I’m glad to be a part of it. There is so much Pittsburgh has to offer and there is definitely something that will interest everyone, from diverse food to the arts (there are so many theatre productions and cinemas all over the city), sports (I’m partial to hockey games, LET’S GO PENS !!!) and there are so many different kinds of people you will meet and get to know. I am always here and happy to hear from you!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
National Identity(ies): Indian
Language(s): English, Tamil
Major(s): Biological Sciences
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Applied Statistics and Chemistry minor; Certificate in Global Health
Club(s): Women in Research
Hello everyone. I am Dharrnhi, a rising senior and a second year Global Ties Mentor. I am beyond excited to welcome you all. Moving across oceans to build a life in the US as a student is never easy, but that helps you discover what you are truly capable of. And here, you have a community of people who have done it in the past and others who are doing it with you to help you with that. I can’t wait for you all to embark on this amazing endeavor. Every time I see people navigating even the tiniest of things all by themselves it reminds me of how far I have come. Pitt has given me some of the best memories which I will relish for a lifetime. And I hope you all start collecting such relishing moments to carry with you forever as well. You can always find me hanging out in William Pitt Union, so feel free to come and say hi:)
Pronouns: He/Him
National Identity(ies): Brazilian
Language(s): English, Portuguese
Major(s): Computer Science and Data Science
Club(s): Computer Science Club, Music Production Club
Hello, and welcome to Pitt! I’m Erick, or you can call me Koji, a Junior studying computer science at Pitt, and this will be my second year as a global ties mentor. Here is a little about myself: I am the third generation of Japanese-Brazilians. I grew up in the rural area of a city called Mogi das Cruzes in São Paulo, Brazil. Outside classes, I am involved in the Computer Science Club and the Music Production Club. My hobbies include searching for unknown vinyl records, producing music, DJing, photography, and cooking.
Another thing that I enjoy is talking to people of various backgrounds. Getting to know the culture, experiences, food, and especially the music they like is an irreplaceable experience, so feel free to come and talk to me whenever you want! I understand that coming to college can be a scary and daunting experience, but I hope that I can guide you to conquer your fears and experience what the best college has to offer. If you ever find me walking around campus with my headphones on, feel free to talk to me and ask what song I am listening to.
Pronouns: she/her
National Identity(ies): Egypt
Language(s): Arabic, English
Major(s): Molecular Biology
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): American Sign Language, Conceptual Foundations of Medicine
Club(s): Dental Science Club, MSA
Hello everyone and welcome to Pitt! My name is Shahd and I’m a rising junior majoring in molecular biology. I’m an international student from Egypt, but I’ve spent a huge portion of my life living abroad in different countries like Jordan, USA, and Japan! Leaving your home country behind to live in a foreign one can seem scary at first, but as a person who has been moving around so much, I can tell you it’s worth it. You make a lot of new friends and learn more about different cultures, perspectives, and even yourself. The Pitt campus also has an amazing blend of diversity, so I can guarantee you that you won’t feel alone. As a first year Global Ties Mentor, I’m super excited to help create a warm and welcoming environment for you when you start your journey at Pitt! When I’m not in class, you can find me anywhere in the William Pitt Union either studying or reading (I can give you good book recommendations if you’re interested!), hanging out with friends, or volunteering. If you ever need help with any academics or just want to chat, feel free to reach out to me or say hi! I look forward to meeting you all when you arrive!
Pronouns: He/Him
National Identity(ies): China
Language(s): English, Mandarin
Major(s): Media and Professional Communications
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Economics/Sociology
Hey guys and welcome to Pitt! My name is Alfred and I’m a rising senior from Beijing China. As a student majoring in communication, I love to communicate with people and make new friends, which is one of my main purposes for joining Global Ties. I changed my school every single year since 7thgrade due to uncontrollable factors, but every single year I can get into a new friend group and participate in student orientations. It gives me an opportunity to learn how to make efficient communication and handle various affairs. I also love traveling, as a huge aviation fan, I have flown 20 airlines and visited 50 airports, which is not only a way to transport but also a way to explore new destinations. Every trip is memorable and full of meaning with the culture and history behind the city. Pitts is a friendly, comprehensive, and diverse community. For me is more than just a campus with a long history, there are many interesting places for us to explore. I look forward to meeting you and helping you through this new journey.
Pronouns: She/her/hers
National Identity(ies): United States
Language(s): English
Major(s): Communication Science
Club(s): NSSHLA, Audiology Club
Hi everyone, and welcome to Pitt! My name is Pinn, I’m a senior majoring in Communication Science, and this will be my second year as a Global Ties Mentor. I’m from New Jersey, but I wanted a little insight into city life which brought me to Pitt. In my free time, I like to volunteer, read books and Webtoons, take fitness classes, and try new foods. My independence and love for exploration has allowed me to partake in fun experiences at Pitt, such as studying abroad in Costa Rica and going on a volunteering trip to Tennessee. As an introvert who struggles at times to fit in and feel connected, I can empathize with how intimidating it may feel to find your place in a new environment. However, I’m hopeful that you all can find a sense of community here with support from Global Ties and Pitt’s variety of clubs, organizations, and resources. If you ever need a fitness buddy, academic support, a foodie to try new foods with, or just want to chat about anything, feel free to reach out to me. I can’t wait to meet you all on campus. See you soon!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
National Identity(ies): Vietnamese
Language(s): English, Vietnamese, basic German
Major(s): Pharmacy
Club(s): Global Ties
Hi everyone! My name is Nghi, you can also call me Jasmine. I’m a rising senior at Pitt majoring in Pharmacy, and it will be my second year in Pharmacy School the following semester! I’m an international student from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Looking back, my journey at Pitt started out surprisingly better than I expected. Being one of the very few Vietnamese students here, I was anxious about trying to fit in with such an unfamiliar environment by myself and was desperate to find connections. Fortunately, through Global Ties events I was able to expand my social circle and meet people who guided me so much in my freshman year that eventually became my closest friends. This year, I’m eager to provide you with the support that I once received, so if you are currently nervous about the journey ahead, please rest assured that I’m here to help, or just simply, to listen! Beside that, I find myself as someone who is really invested in things that interest me, so growing up I had many hobbies that I maintain until today like reading, listening to music, playing video games, hanging out with my friends, and especially drawing. At the beginning I was not that good an artist, but after years of practicing I’m satisfied enough with my drawing skills serving as a tool to visualize my imagination. I’m looking forward to meeting you all and hearing your stories! Welcome to Pitt!
Pronouns: Any
National Identity(ies): Indian-American
Language(s): Tamil, English, Spanish
Major(s): Neuroscience & Philosophy
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Minor in Chemistry, Certificate in Conceptual Foundations of Medicine
Club(s): oSTEM, AMSA, Science Olympiad
Hello and welcome to Pitt! My name is Aaryan and I’m a rising sophomore pursuing majors in Neuroscience and Philosophy on the pre-medicine track. A little about me: I was born in Singapore, lived in Hyderabad, India for three years, and have lived in multiple states in my time in the US. In my free time I run, read non-fiction, and have recently taken on journalling. During the school year, I can be found in cafes on and near campus and the rec center to lift. I plan to pursue an MD/PhD after undergrad.
Moving around as a kid gave me a distinct appreciation for the different perspectives that people might have. I am so excited to get to know all of yours over the course of the year. If you see me around campus, feel free to say hello!
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
National Identity(ies): Indian
Language(s): Konkani, English, French, Hindi
Major(s): Molecular Biology and Economics
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Chemistry
Club(s): Phi Sigma Rho Sorority, Pitt Rowing Club, Women in Economics, OCC Ambassador
Hi! My name is Avni, and I am a rising senior at Pitt. I’m an international student from India, but I've spent my life bouncing back and forth between different states in the US and India. I love to travel, and I love being at Pitt. It was a tad difficult to adjust to when I first got to Pitt, but global ties events really helped me to fit in, and I hope I can help you too! I absolutely loved my last few years at Pitt, there's so much to do and so many new people to meet. My favorite part about Pitt is going to all the events, like football games or the farmers market, as well as taking advantage of all the perks. When I’m not in class, I’m usually hanging out in Posvar doing some work for my extracurriculars or drawing on my iPad. I'm a huge cinephile and I love comic books and fantasy books. Feel free to reach out if you wanna talk about academics or football or movies and I can’t wait to welcome you to Pitt!
Pronouns: She/Her
National Identity(ies): Chinese
Language(s): English, Mandarin, Tagalog
Major(s): Natural Sciences (Pre-Dental)
Club(s): Dental Science Club, Treble Choral Ensemble, Pitt FSA (Filipino Student Association)
Hi fellow Panthers! My name is Cindy, and it is such a pleasure to be part of the Global Ties Program this year! I am a sophomore majoring in Natural Sciences as a pre-dental student. I was born in China and moved to the Philippines after elementary school. In my free time, I like to play some instruments or watch a good movie. I also work at the Office of Residence Life, so if you have any questions about housing feel free to reach out to me. A fun fact about me is that I know how to play 4 instruments (and I have a little sister who’s 16 years younger than I am). I look forward to meeting all of you on campus and maybe we can be friends!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
National Identity(ies): Brazilian
Language(s): English, Portuguese
Major(s): Mechanical Engineering
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Metrology, Bioengineering
Club(s): Global Ties, Anime
Hi everyone and welcome to Pitt!! My name is Jessica, but feel free to call me Jess. I was raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and I’ll be a Junior this year. This is my first year as a GTM and I’m honored by such a great opportunity. I must say I absolutely love Pittsburgh. I’ve lived in the countryside and in very populated cities before and I must say Pittsburgh is the perfect in between – a small big city for sure. I love exploring the city, going to the parks, watch nature, going to sporting events, meet the neighborhoods and find cozy little cafes, creating little rituals on how I enjoy the city. You never know what might interest you. For example, I found out I am a massive hockey fan, and I never miss a cosplay/anime event. There’s always something going on and I love the dynamism this city offers. As a mentor, I’m here to support students to create their own little rituals and explore their new home! I’m so excited to meet everyone!!
Pronouns: She/Her
National Identity(ies): American
Language(s): English
Major(s): Biology with Premed
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Sociology minor and a CFM certificate
Club(s): Club Rowing
Hi! Welcome to Pitt! My name is Lauren. I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, and I’ll be a sophomore this fall. This is my first year as a GTM, and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of your journey at Pitt. Outside of classes, I love to travel, play sports, listen to music, and read. Before my first year, I was definitely nervous about moving to a new city and not knowing anyone- but I quickly discovered how welcoming and kind the Pitt community is. At Pitt there are hundreds of clubs, classes, and leadership opportunities to get involved in. There’s truly something for everyone here. From amazing food to exciting sporting events, Pittsburgh is full of things to explore. As your mentor, I’m here to support you in finding your place. Whether you need help with classes, want to know things to do in the city, or just feel like saying hi don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m so excited to meet everyone!
Pronouns: she/her
National Identity(ies): Korean
Language(s): English, Korean
Major(s): Nursing
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Korean
Club(s): Nursing Student Associations, Korean Student Associations, Pathfinders, Pitt Dance Marathon, and Ice Cream Sundays
Hello! My name is Rachel, and I am so excited to meet everyone! I was born and raised in New Jersey, where you can find great beaches, bagels, and pizza! I am going to be a rising junior this year and hope to be an oncology nurse once I graduate. In my free time I love exploring the city, visiting museums, shopping, and eating yummy food with friends. I also like to spend my days inside cooking and playing Stardew Valley. If you want to know things to do around Pittsburgh, let me know! I know starting college can be scary and intimidating, but I am here to help! If you have any questions or concerns about anything, please feel free to reach out to me! I hope you have a great year!
Pronouns: He/Him
National Identity(ies): Chinese
Language(s): English, Chinese
Major(s): Mechanical Engineering
Minor(s)/Certificate(s): Electrical Engineering
Club(s): American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Hello everyone and welcome to Pitt! My name is Zongnan Xiao, a rising junior mechanical engineering student from Chongqing, China, and this will be my first year working as a Global Ties Mentor. As an engineering student, I love getting involved in lots of hands-on experiences, so you may find me making some cool stuff in the Maker Space of Benedum Hall. When I am not at work, I love to travel to different places and explore different cultures, and also try out different restaurants in Pittsburgh. I am really excited to meet you all around the campus, so feel free to contact me — no matter if you need help, recommendations, or just want to talk, I will be here for you! Welcome again and Hail to Pitt!