As an international student, Snigdha Ojha has experienced aspects of her UCR education differently than many of her American peers. In order to share her unique perspective and provide support for fellow international students, Ojha has created a podcast that highlights her journey at the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management and touches on broader aspects of student life.
The inspiration for Ojha’s podcast began during a conversation with her admissions advisor. She recalls that the idea surfaced while discussing challenges she was facing, including housing and adjusting to life in a new country. Recognizing that many international students encounter similar struggles, Ojha saw the opportunity to create a resource that could provide both comfort and practical guidance. By sharing her story in an accessible format, she hoped to build a sense of community for others navigating the same transition.
Ojha is not new to the world of business. She is a seasoned professional with nearly a decade of experience in marketing and commerce. “I have nine years of experience in business,” she explains. “I’m working on my MBA to enhance my career and take the next leap in marketing. I’ve worked all my life in India in commerce and TV, and as a consultant during the COVID-19 pandemic.” Her professional background gives her podcast an additional layer of credibility, as she can draw upon real-world experience to provide advice that is both relevant and actionable.
The purpose of the podcast extends beyond storytelling. Ojha hopes it can serve as a practical guide for international students as they adapt to living and studying in the United States. “I want to talk about how students can adjust to American culture, and how they can adapt their lifestyle while living and studying here,” she says. She acknowledges that many international students struggle to find a sense of belonging. By addressing these issues directly, Ojha aims to create a resource that helps students feel supported as they work toward their academic and career goals.
Her podcast blends professional insights with personal anecdotes. Of Season One, Ojha explains, “There are episodes about how you should brand yourself. Coming from a business school, it’s all about branding and lifestyle. Additionally, there are episodes about how to prepare yourself for interviews and company culture, and how to enjoy school holidays and local festivities.” Each episode averages 20 to 25 minutes, offering listeners a manageable way to engage with the material. She emphasizes that her content is not only about business strategy but also about learning how to embrace new experiences while living in the U.S.
Ojha hopes her audience will find both encouragement and valuable information in her work. “I hope my listeners enjoy the conversation, and the process of learning how to adapt to America,” she says. “We all come here with different backgrounds, and I want to help them brand themselves for their next career steps. Since they are here, it’s very important for them to learn about this culture. Adjusting to a new environment is often difficult; change is the only constant.”
By combining professional guidance, cultural adaptation strategies, and personal reflection, Ojha’s podcast has become a platform that not only amplifies her own voice but also serves as a source of reassurance and advice for international students who may be seeking the same kind of guidance she once needed herself.