Almost open for 'business'

After more than two years of planning and renovation, the International Students Association had good reason to celebrate during the ribbon cutting ceremony, Jan. 31st. The student organization now has their very own dedicated space to hold ISA meetings. While the office space is currently used for various meetings and gatherings, regular office hours will be established this fall, along with drop-in events.

Located in the International Center across from the Spartan Bookstore, the ISA office serves as a physical home for ISA and other international student organizations; it will also operate as a study space.

Having physical space on campus has been a priority for ISA leadership since the project’s proposal at the first International Students Leaders Summit in 2022. Former ISA President, Nikunj Agarwal (CANR ‘22), led the initiative for the space on campus to increase a sense of belonging for the international student community. Agarwal has maintained influence and oversight in how the space would come to fruition even as an alum.

“Seeing the ISA HQ open is truly a dream come true for me. It represents the culmination of countless hours of collaboration, advocacy and passion from so many people dedicated to improving the experience of international students at MSU. Personally, it feels like more than just an achievement — it’s like a home for all Global Spartans, a place where they can feel seen, supported and connected,” said Agarwal.

The ISA’s continued advocacy does not go unnoticed to university leadership. Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Thomas Jeitschko affirmed the university’s dedication to supporting international students at the ISA office ribbon cutting ceremony.

“As we celebrate the opening of this new space, know that we also celebrate all of you and all international students, as well as everything you bring to campus that enriches our university community. Each of you adds a unique value to our community of scholars and to the collective strength of our great university,” said Provost Jeitschko. 

The Office of Student Life and Engagement was at the forefront of developing ISA’s dedicated space. Genyne Royal, assistant vice president for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in Student Life and Engagement, immediately understood the importance of Agarwal’s proposal.

“I didn’t have an international experience when I was in undergrad, but I did go away for school. I knew the importance of having a space that felt like home when I was there. A space that I could hang out and know that I was going to be accepted and valued and feel like it was a space that was for me,” Royal said.

Projects such as this one do not occur overnight, but Royal and Agarwal stayed the course. Both were present during the official ribbon cutting ceremony back in January; although Agarwal who was back in India, joined via video call.

“Student advocacy truly has an impact. It’s a big win — not just for me, but for every student who has ever voiced their concerns or suggestions. It gives me hope to continue speaking out and pushing for positive change, and I hope it inspires others who might be hesitant to share their perspectives to realize that their voices matter too,” said Agarwal, who says he hopes his continued advocacy for the ISA Office will facilitate the current and incoming international student community to find their home in East Lansing.

“I hope these headquarters become a vibrant hub where international students can find resources, build lasting friendships and have their voices amplified. Navigating life in a new country can be challenging and having a dedicated space like this can make a world of difference in fostering a sense of belonging and community on campus.”