Shows
iScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniEast Meets West: Rustam’s Story Through the Azerbaijani-American LensIn this episode, we sit down with Rustam, a scientist at Scripps Research Institute, to explore his journey from Azerbaijan to the United States - and how his cultural roots continue to shape his perspective on both life and science2025-07-0438 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniScience Across Altitudes: Safal's Journey from Nepal to the U.S.In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Safal Shrestha, a scientist originally from Nepal, as he shares his remarkable journey - from a childhood in the foothills of the Himalayas to conducting cutting-edge research in the United States. We discuss the challenges of moving across continents, navigating cultural shifts, and the deep passion for science that has fueled his path. Let’s listen to his story.2025-06-0553 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniFrom Visa to Investing: Financial Literacy for International Students in the U.S.New to the U.S. and feeling overwhelmed about banking, credit scores, or budgeting? You’re not alone! In this episode, we sit down with our co-host, Dr. Eshani Hettiarachchi to break down the financial basics every international scholar and student should know - from saving to surviving inflation on a tight budget to start investing. Tune in for practical tips, real stories, and smart strategies to help you thrive in today’s uncertain economy.Links for the money literacy we mentioned during the podcast:Scams:US NEWS: https://www.usnews.com/education/best...2025-05-091h 07iScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniScience Without Borders: Yuko’s Path from Japan to Biochemistry at UC San DiegoIn this episode, we sit down with Yuko to hear about her unique academic journey. We dive into her experiences as an international student, the challenges and rewards of studying abroad, and how she navigates life as a graduate student in a demanding field like biochemistry.2025-04-1025 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniBeyond the Lab: South Korean PhD Students, Hyesoo and Jeewon and Their Side HustlesGraduate school can be all-consuming, but many PhD students find balance and even extra income through side hobbies. In this episode, we sit down with Hyesoo and Jeewon, South Korean PhD students in chemistry and biochemistry to explore their creative passions outside the lab. From art and music to content creation and small businesses, we uncover how these scholars manage their time, fuel their creativity, and, in some cases, turn hobbies into profitable ventures.This is the link to Jeewon's vlog, which was mentioned in the episode: https://m.blog.naver.com/unadon_2025-03-0624 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniBreaking Barriers: Mental Health and Self-Improvement Across CulturesIn this episode, we share candid insights into the unique challenges international students and scholars face, from cultural transitions to academic pressures, and how these experiences shaped Trusty's perspective on mental well-being. We discuss the importance of self-care, the role of resilience, and the lessons she has learned about balancing mental health with personal and professional growth. Whether you're an international scholar, a mental health advocate, or simply someone interested in self-improvement, this episode offers a valuable perspective on navigating life’s complexities while staying true to yourself. Tune in to hear her story and discover practical advice for cu...2025-02-0638 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniFrom Vietnam to the U.S.: Dr. Duc Tran’s Path of Cultural and Career TransformationIn this episode, we speak with an inspiring guest, Dr. Duc Tran, whose journey spans continents and career paths. We’ll explore her insights into cultural adaptation, the contrasts between working in the U.S. and Vietnam, and the unique perspectives she’s gained through her international and interdisciplinary experiences.
2024-12-051h 07iScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniCrossing Continents: A Scholar’s Journey from Thailand to the U.S. and BackIn this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of soon-to-be Dr. Cholaphan Deeleepojananan, who arrived in the US to pursue her undergraduate and doctoral studies, with aspirations of going back to live and work in Thailand. She shares with us her experience in navigating the unchartered waters of adapting to a new culture, academic rigor, and personal growth. 2024-11-1034 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniBalancing Graduate School, Work, Life, and MotherhoodIn this episode, we sit down with Amalia Villagrán-Suarez, a PhD student, researcher, and new mother, to discuss the art of juggling graduate school, work, life, and the arrival of a newborn. Amalia shares her personal journey, including the challenges and triumphs of navigating academia while balancing the demands of motherhood and family.2024-10-0328 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniGlobal Journey: The Stories of Learning and AdaptingIn this episode, we interview Yingnan, a professional working at Caltrans, who shares his journey of moving across countries, adapting to new environments, and thriving in life, academia, and the workplace.2024-09-0848 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniMastering Work-Life Balance: Strategies for SuccessIn this episode, we delve into the art of achieving work-life balance in today's fast-paced world. Balancing professional responsibilities with personal life can be a daunting task, but it's essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being. Join us as we speak with Lincoln Mehndiratta, a chemistry PhD student, who has successfully navigated this challenge.
2024-08-0133 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniGraduate Student to Homeowner: A Journey Through the Challenges and TriumphsIn this episode, we dive into the unique and often challenging experience of buying a house while juggling the demands of graduate school. Join us as we chat with Dr. Daphne, a PhD graduate who recently took the plunge into homeownership. Daphne shares her personal journey, from the initial decision to buy a house, through navigating the financial and logistical hurdles, to finally getting the keys to her new home
2024-07-2141 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniFrom Academia to Industry: Navigating Your Career TransitionIn this episode, we explore the journey from academia to industry with insights and advice from Dr. Bastian Ramms who have successfully made the switch. Discover practical tips on how to leverage your academic skills, identify the right industry roles, and adapt to the corporate environment.2024-06-141h 02iScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniVisa Insights: Demystifying Regulations for International ScholarsIn this episode, Sandra Vargas Tinoco, the assistant director of the International Faculty and Scholar Services, and Gabriela Hoffmann, the Assistant Director of International Experience and Engagement from the International Services and Engagement Office at UC San Diego, bring their wealth of knowledge to the table. They will answer pressing questions and shed light on the often complex visa landscape for scholars studying or working at UC San Diego.
For more information, check out ISEO website at https://iseo.ucsd.edu/ and resourse management and planning website at https://adminrecords.ucsd.edu/ppm/docs/200...2024-05-0339 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniUnlocking Opportunities: Navigating Networking, Job Hunting, and Internships for International ScholarsIn this episode, Anand, a chemistry PhD candidate, shares his experience with networking, job hunting, and securing fellowships and internships.2024-04-0445 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniUnlocking Opportunities: Navigating Networking, Job Hunting, and Internships for International Medical GraduatesIn this episode, Dr. Munir Moacdieh shares his experience as an international medical graduate and discusses how he prepares himself to enter a residency program in the U.S.2024-03-0726 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniFunding the Dream: Financial Challenges and Solutions for International StudentsIn this episode, we embark on a journey through the financial experiences of Linh, a tax expert in the U.S., spanning various life stages – from her undergraduate years to graduate studies, and now as a working professional. We are eager to hear her insights and tips on a wide range of financial topics, including budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, and taxes.
Additionally, Linh is also part of Fund for Dreams non-profit organization: https://www.fundfordreams.org/2024-02-0136 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniNavigating the Lab: Successes and Hardships as an International Graduate ResearcherIn this episode, we delve into Dr. Shahriare Hossain’s journey as an international graduate researcher, tracing his experiences from the initial stages to navigating the graduate school program. Join us as we invite Dr. Hossain to share his insights on celebrating success and navigating the inevitable hardships and failures that are all too common in the challenging landscape of grad school. Your participation is encouraged, and we look forward to exploring the diverse aspects of the graduate research experience.2024-01-0425 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniCultural Carols: Navigating U.S. Holidays as an International ScholarThis episode will focus on Dr. Eshani Hettiarachchi's experience preparing for Christmas and New Year in the US, and how she celebrated the first holiday season.2023-12-0743 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniCulture shock chronicles: navigating the unfamiliarIn this episode, Hoang and Eshani discuss Gogo's culture shock experience, her journey in overcoming language barriers, and her Thanksgiving holiday preparations, along with any interesting anecdotes she may have.2023-11-0236 miniScholar Dive with Hoang and EshaniOn-boarding: 1st month in the USIn this episode, Hoang and Eshani explore the stories and experiences of Dr. Tuyen Nguyen during her first month of living in the U.S. This encompasses Tuyen's first day in the country, her initial experiences at school or work, and any advice she would like to share with our audience.2023-10-0524 min