campus

SJTU Recognizes Three JI Students as 2025 Top International Graduates

Three undergraduate students from the University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI) have been recognized as Outstanding Undergraduate Graduates for the year 2025. This accolade has been awarded by the SJTU International Student Service Center, highlighting the achievements of international students within the institution.

The distinguished students include Jovan Yap Zheng Feng from Singapore, Kantaphat Leelakunwet from Thailand, and Niladri Saha Saccha from Bangladesh. They were among 17 recipients honored for their exceptional academic performance, engagement in research, and significant contributions to community service and cultural exchange.

Over the last four years, these students have exhibited excellence in their studies while also immersing themselves in various student organizations and academic competitions, which demonstrates the holistic development encouraged for international students at JI.

Jovan Yap Zheng Feng has been the recipient of notable academic recognitions, including the JI Tang Junyuan Scholarship and the UM McLane Family Scholarship. He will further his studies by pursuing a master's degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at the University of California, Berkeley, beginning in August 2025.

Reflecting on his experiences, Jovan noted, 'Interacting closely with both local and international peers at JI has been a great academic inspiration. I hope to serve as a bridge for global technological innovation and collaboration, leveraging my skills to unite diverse perspectives and tackle global challenges.'

Kantaphat Leelakunwet has consistently ranked in the top 1% of his major and served as the President of the JI International Student Association in 2023. His accolades include the Shanghai Government First-Class Scholarship and the JI John Wu & Jane Sun Excellence Scholarship.

Kantaphat expressed, 'My time at JI taught me the value of cultural connection and communication. I hope to serve as a bridge between Chinese and Thai cultures and continue striving toward the goal of becoming a cultural ambassador.'

Niladri Saha Saccha has also made significant strides during his time at JI, serving as Vice President of the SJTU Global Competence Development Association. He has received numerous scholarships, including the Shanghai Government Scholarship and the JI Wu Jiong & Sun Jie Rising Star Scholarship.

With ambitions to pursue a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the National University of Singapore starting in 2025, Niladri remarked, 'Life at JI was dynamic and fulfilling. Through student clubs, sports, and cultural activities, I made lifelong friendships and gained valuable personal growth.'

These achievements underscore the successful integration of academic rigor and cultural exchange at the University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute, showcasing the capabilities and aspirations of its international student body.