Page 181 - Movers, Shapers, and Everything in Between: Influencers of the International Student Experience

It takes a village to raise a child, they say. That’s true. It also takes a village to complete a PhD.
My PhD journey has been possible thanks to the support of many wonderful humans. Regardless of whether you are named below, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your support along the way. I would like to especially acknowledge the following people:
Let me start by thanking my supervisors, who been a terrific trifecta and source of guidance and support. The combination of Adriaan’s no-nonsense approach, Robert’s unwavering encouragement and knowledgeable advice, and Ellen’s consistent direction kept me on the path to success. Thanks also to my PhD cohort at CIE. Our residential weeks were some of the most productive and fun weeks I’ve had in recent years. While I will truly miss our time in Leeuwarden, I’m sure we will meet again to collaborate and carouse! My Netherlands-based CIE colleagues deserve special recognition for graciously extending a helping hand whenever needed, especially Grada, who was my go-to person for anything related to the thesis defense.
I could not have done this PhD without the inspiring friends and family in my life who motivate me to have big dreams. Diksha has known me since both of our 11-year-old brains had less knowledge and more silliness and loved me just the same. My dear friends from Tufts— Ayako, Debbie, Margo, Jackie, Caitlin, Satya—have been a fortress of friendship since 2001 that I know I can count on until 2100. My HGSE friends remind me that excellence is not being the best; it's doing your best. Kim has been a supporter at every step—literally—since we talk about research as we train for marathons. My sisters-in-law are a reliable source of awesomeness: Becca is equal parts thoughtful and hilarious; Eva is an inspiration to follow your dreams; and Taylor offers the perfect combination of pragmatism and pastries. My incredible parents-in-law, Esther and Andreu, introduced me to the world of international higher education and are models of generosity, intellect, and integrity. Many other individuals have kept me going through their
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