Wisnu Pradana is seeking ways to understand others.
As a language and literacy educator and doctoral student in the Mary Frances Early College of Education, Pradana aims not only to educate but also support students from all backgrounds.
Pradana came to the University of Georgia in 2017 as a Fulbright Scholar and master’s student. But after earning his degree in 2019, he stuck around to continue his Ph.D. As an international student from Indonesia, he faced several challenges while adjusting to life in Athens. From homesickness to learning new cultural norms, he recognized that other international students confronted the same obstacles.
“I know it’s not easy to be in a new environment,” he said. “There are language barriers, but also expectations that differ. As international students, we need a supportive environment that helps understand and support our different experiences.”
Through International Student Life, he developed ISL Circles to ease students’ transition to UGA and the United States. The program connects international and domestic students for mutually beneficial language practice and provides forums where students can openly ask questions and address concerns.
Faculty and institutional support for these programs has enhanced his experience, Pradana said, and helped these programs succeed.
“One of the things I appreciate so much about being at UGA is that my work has been recognized and supported,” Pradana said. “I’ve always loved working in an environment where I feel trusted to explore and innovate.”