Student view: Belonging through MSU International Student Association

Mahak Keswani is an international student from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. She is a senior majoring in advertising management in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences with minors in business, and entrepreneurship and innovation. Keswani is the director of global outreach for the MSU Marketing Association.  

When I first arrived at Michigan State University as an international student from Dubai, I was filled with excitement, but also uncertainty about how I would fit into such a vast and diverse campus. Little did I know that joining the International Student Association would become one of the most transformative experiences, shaping both my identity and sense of purpose. 

ISA provides me with something far beyond leadership roles — it offers a true sense of belonging. Connecting with students from all around the world, I quickly realized how deeply interconnected our experiences were, despite our different backgrounds. It became a place where diversity was not just acknowledged but celebrated as a source of strength. It allows me to view the world through a broader lens, fostering an appreciation for how each culture contributes to the richness of our community. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of my time with ISA has been advocating for international students and pushing for spaces where our voices can be heard. After years of working to establish a permanent home for ISA on campus, we are proud to announce the opening of the ISA office at the International Center in January 2025. This space will be a central hub for international students to gather, share their experiences and access the support they need. It's a physical representation of what ISA stands for— a home away from home for those of us who are navigating the challenges and joys of studying abroad. 

The journey to securing this office wasn’t easy, but it was driven by the belief that international students deserve a dedicated space where they can feel supported and connected. The ISA office will serve as a place for cultural events, community gatherings and resources, making it a vital part of the MSU experience for international students. 

Knowing that future students will benefit from this space fills me with pride and gratitude. Through ISA, I’ve learned the true power of empathy and community. It’s one thing to be part of a university; it’s another to feel like you belong. ISA gave me that sense of belonging, and it’s an experience that has shaped me in ways I never imagined. It has made me more compassionate, open-minded and committed to building bridges between people from all walks of life. 

As I reflect on my time at MSU, I realize that my experience with ISA was never just about organizing events or attending meetings — it was about creating a lasting impact. It’s about leaving behind a legacy of inclusion, advocacy and support for future generations of international students. For me, and for so many others, ISA has become more than an organization — it’s become a family.