JI ISA

University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute International Student Association (JI ISA), is the main student organization at the college level under the guidance of Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute. It is a bridge and link for the college to unite international students. JI ISA is committed to promoting the friendship and cultural exchanges, leading the cultural construction of international campus, enhancing the sense of belonging and identity of international students.

President

Krin Muangsiri (Ken) :
  • ME Junior
  • E-mail: krin_m@sjtu.edu.cn
  • WeChat: krin_m
  • Nationality: Thailand
Introduction:
Hey gang, I’m Ken, and I’m proud to take on the responsibility of being ISA President this year. As JI students, we all know the challenges of balancing demanding coursework, which can often feel overwhelming. That’s where the ISA comes in—holding fun, relaxing events to destress and to help students build strong bonds with one another. Together with my talented new team, I’m committed to creating an even more positive and vibrant atmosphere at JI than ever before. Feel free to reach out to learn more about life here!

Vice President – External Affairs

Sofia Lai Velasquez Shum:
  • ECE Senoior
  • Email: sofiavshum@sjtu.edu.cn
  • WeChat: lilivshum
  • Nationality: Costa Rica
Introduction:
This is my second term as an ISA member, this time as a vice president. Although my responsibilities may vary, my interest lies in ensuring an integral and fulfilling experience in JI for international students. I will be involved in organizing events and coordinating the different ministry activities. You can contact me through any of the mediums provided, and make sure to enjoy your time here at JI!

Vice President – Internal Affairs

Weijie Soo:
Introduction:

Hey everyone! I’m Wei Jie, and I’m super excited to be your Vice President for ISA this year! Our goal is to bring students from all over the world together, celebrate each of our unique culture, and just have fun. Feel free to reach out to us if you ever need anything or to know more about UMSJTU-JI. Let’s make this year an amazing one together!

 

Minister of Treasury

Isa Kimura: 

  • ECE Senior
  • Email: isakimura@sjtu.edu.cn
  • WeChat: Isa_Kimura
  • Nationality: United States
Introduction:
For the past three years, I’ve gotten to work alongside my fellow ISA members to ensure our events run smoothly. It’s been so rewarding to see everyone enjoy themselves and make meaningful connections at our various get-togethers. This year, I will be taking on a new role, managing the treasury and finances—so I’ll be more behind the scenes, but still very much part of the action.
If you have any questions about reimbursements or just want to chat about JI or ISA, don’t hesitate to reach out! Cheers!

Minister of Planning

Choo Lee Wen: 
  • ECE Senior
  • Email: leewen_choo@sjtu.edu.cn
  • WeChat: imleewen00
  • Nationality: Malaysia
Introduction:
I am glad to join ISA this year with a passion for bringing people together and creating an awesome, welcoming vibe here at JI. I’m super excited to be part of the Student Union, helping our international community thrive! Let’s make this year unforgettable—with lots of growth, tons of fun, and memories that’ll stick with you forever!

Minister of Publication

Sophia Chua: 
  • ECE Junior
  • Email: sophia_c@sjtu.edu.cn
  • Wechat: yix_in_1103
  • Nationality: Philippines
Introduction:

Heyyo, what’s up? I’m delighted to take part in forging a new and exciting year for everyone. This is my second year as a member of the ISA and I’ll do my part to make it an enjoyable and smooth year for everyone.

If you face any problems in your life in JI and in China, don’t hesitate to contact me — I’ve probably gone through it. Please pay attention to the ISA as we passionately strive to add more color to your college life!

 

Minister of Promotion

Aghamatlab Akbarzade: 
  • ECE Sophomore
  • Nationality: Azerbaijani
  • WeChat ID: Agamatlab
Introduction:

Hey, I’m Agha from Baku, the “City of Winds,” and I’m passionate about all things tech, including digital design. This year, I’ll be helping out with the International Students Association (ISA), creating posters for events and promoting them. Like all ISA members, I will be contributing to the organization of the wonderful events you all know and love! I’m also volunteering to assist new students at JI, so if you ever have any questions or need help settling in, feel free to reach out.

Freshman Representative

Patricia Eileen: 
  • Email: tricia-wu@sjtu.edu.cn
  • Wechat: Est-97531
  • Nationality: Indonesia
Introduction:

Hey everyone, I’m delighted to be entrusted as the first freshman representative at JI. I will be relaying the concerns and interests of the first years while helping the ISA members organize events for international students. If you have any questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

News

Embracing diversity: a JI journey with Niladri Saha Saccha

Embracing diversity: a JI journey with Niladri Saha Saccha

Editor’s Note: Niladri Saha Saccha, a Bangladeshi student, embarked on a transformative journey at the University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) in Fall 2021. As he approaches the culmination of his undergraduate...

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New ISA team vows to make JI a home away from home

New ISA team vows to make JI a home away from home

International students of the University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) gathered at CIMC Auditorium of Long Bin Building on the evening of October 23 for a “Love, Death & Robots Stream Night”, an event featuring lucky draw, movie-watching, free popcorn and drinks that also serves to announce the formation of the new international student association (ISA) team.

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JI international students attend Study Away program in Singapore

JI international students attend Study Away program in Singapore

Nineteen international students from the University of Michigan – Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) have embarked on a one-semester Study Away program in Singapore, thanks to the sponsorship of the SJTU Asia Pacific Graduate Institute (SJTU-APGI) based in the tropical city state.

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JI All International Students Meeting brings dialogue and new ISA members

JI All International Students Meeting brings dialogue and new ISA members

The University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) held its annual All International Students Meeting at CIMC Auditorium of Long Bin Building on September 7, for the purposes of announcing the establishment of the new international student association team and opening an in-depth dialogue with JI leaders and administration offices for international students.

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