International Studies Student Association

President: Yumi Okuda

Year: 3rd Year

Major/Minor(s): Archaeological Anthropology, International Studies Minor

Hometown: Tampa, Florida

Desired Profession/Long-term goals: Cross cultural relations between Japan and America, social policy work, repatriation of artwork, archaeology/restoration

These past two years being part of ISSA has been a truly fulfilling experience, strengthening not only my relationships with its members, but also my interest in International Studies. ISSA has taught me about various professional skills, how to build an inclusive community, and helped me to gain a better understanding of the importance of International Studies in an increasingly globalized world.

My most memorable travel destination was to Japan and Korea. These trips helped me to connect more with my heritage, as I was immersed in the culture and was able to meet up with my extended family. Aside from Asia, I recently traveled to Greece for an archaeological field school. The country was beautiful, the food was delicious, and I learned so much about Greek culture.

I love travelling, trying new foods, going on walks, singing, and hanging out with friends. Although I make sure to spend time resting, I also enjoy staying busy pursuing my passions. I am pretty outgoing and love meeting new people so feel free to contact me!

Vice President: Kaylin Chan

Year: 2nd Year

Major/Minor(s): International Studies Global Business & Cognitive Science (Minor in Marketing)

Hometown: Orange County, CA

Desired Profession/Long-term goals: Product Marketing (innovation-focused)/Working in the global healthcare or climate change industries from the consumer product-side

Hi! My name is Kaylin, and I have been a part of the International Studies Student Association for as long as I’ve been here at the University of California, San Diego. ISSA has been a place for me to relax, connect with peers, make long-lasting friendships and memories that span from college to college to country to country. It has given me a space to explore my interests, and I am excited to bring a new wind to ISSA and support fellow internationally-interested or involved students this coming year.

Jumping from the biotechnology track on to the business track, and eventually to the cognitive science track, as well, I’ve been able to cultivate my personal and professional interests in product ideation and innovation for the betterment of the environment and health fields. Whether it’s in my local community in OC to the community I hold dear abroad, I am inspired everyday to continue with this path and bring together diverse communities of diverse interests.

Speaking of interests, I personally am a huge traveler and an avid music fiend! From musicals to orchestral to indie to rock, I’ll enjoy anything you put me on, and I’m always down to see a good musical movie or performance! I’m also always up for finding food and exploring new experiences. If you have any recommendations or want to coffee chat (or simply want a buddy to hang out with and eat with), I will almost never say no! Feel free to say hi if you see me, and definitely reach out – I look forward to connecting with anyone, and I am honored to be serving as ISSA’s Vice President this year.

Director of Finance: Cameron Ettefagh

Year: 2nd year

Major/Minor(s): International Studies Anthropology

Hometown: Irvine, California

Desired Profession/Long-term goals: International Law / Public Policy

Hello! My name is Cameron Ettefagh and I am studying International Studies Anthropology. I am a proud Persian-American from Orange County California. The diversity of opinon and culture in Orange County inspired me to study International Studies and join ISSA as the Director of Finance. In addition to this role, I serve in Associated Students UCSD as an Associate Vice President where I lead a team dedicated to enhancing the college experience.  I am particularly interested in the region of the Middle East, given its complexity.  

Director of Marketing: Luz Ico

Year: Senior

Major/Minor(s): Political Science/International Relations, International Studies - International Business

Hometown: Palmdale, California

Desired Profession/Long-term goals: Work on the Hill or a DC think tank to focus on security and defense or foreign policy and geopolitics

For me, ISSA has been a space to connect with people who share similar interests and global perspectives. It’s given me a sense of belonging on campus and a group of peers who are driven, thoughtful, and supportive, while also providing a space for students to grow professionally through exposure to international affairs and real-world career paths.

I spent a quarter interning in Washington, D.C., and completely fell in love with the city! I loved its vibrant energy, political atmosphere, and the simple joy of walking to local coffee shops and exploring new neighborhoods. I’ve also been fortunate to travel to several countries, with my favorites being Italy, France, and Monaco. I loved how welcoming each place was, and of course, the incredible food. South Korea is next on my bucket list!

In my free time, I love to sing (I'm in two choirs!), read, play the piano, watch F1, and listen to sad pop. I also enjoy exploring San Diego and finding new cafes to study in. I’m an introverted extrovert, so you’ll often see me walking around campus with a matcha or coffee in hand and headphones blasting but feel free to reach out, I love meeting new people :)

Director of Professional Development: Savanna Sierra

Year: 4th year

Major/Minor(s): International Studies – International Business

Hometown: San Diego, California

Desired Profession/Long-term goals: Global sustainability marketing, e-commerce, or corporate sustainable development efforts

I am excited to be apart of the International Studies Student Association executive board and bring international studies students together to create a more intimate community within UCSD. It is super exciting to be apart of a diverse team and use one another’s ideas to bring engaging activities to campus.

As an international business major, I took full advantage of UCSD’s study abroad programs and studied abroad in Italy and Scotland. My study abroad experience has only heightened my passion for travel and I hope to explore more of the globe both, on my personal time but also for work. My time abroad has provided me with a unique experience and I am excited to apply some things I have learned to the ISSA executive board.

I was born and raised in San Diego and love to explore coffee shops, farmers markets, and spend time with my family. Additionally, I love meeting new people and attending social events, such as, run club. I am excited to see what this year’s ISSA executive board will bring to UCSD!

Director of Membership: Samantha Fuentes

Year: 2nd year

Major/Minor(s): International Studies, International Business

Desired Profession/Long-term goals:

ISSA for me is my newest, yet most welcoming community helping me with my transition into joining the international studies program. I’m so excited to work with everyone and really get to know yall !!

Music is my everything. It’d be my dream to do business internationally involving some sort of form of music. I mainly play bass, cello, and guitar but I can also do a little drums and piano. When I’m not at ISSA I’m working at the amphitheater music concerts or developing my record label, Cliffside. Be sure to get involved in anything and everything !! I’m always open to collaborations and helping others with the same passions as me :)