This spring, Arizona State University (ASU) celebrated a major milestone by awarding degrees to 1,800 students from India, making it one of the largest graduating groups of Indian nationals in the institution’s history. These students were part of ASU’s largest-ever spring graduating class, which surpassed 21,000 students in total. Among these were more than 3,000 international students, reflecting the university’s growing global appeal and commitment to diversity in higher education.
India continues to be ASU’s top source of international students. The university currently enrolls around 7,000 students from India, with the majority pursuing graduate programs. This significant presence underscores the strong academic and cultural ties between ASU and India and highlights the university’s role as a leading destination for Indian students seeking advanced education in the United States.
One of the standout Indian graduates this spring was Omkaar Shenoy, a computer science student from Kerala. During his time at ASU, Shenoy made notable contributions to the university community by applying his programming skills at the Office of Media Relations. His work helped improve operational efficiency, showcasing how international students like him enrich the university beyond academics. Shenoy earned his degree from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering and is preparing to begin his professional journey with Aramark, a hospitality company based in Philadelphia.
Reflecting on his experience, Shenoy credited the university for supporting his career aspirations and helping him build a versatile skill set. “ASU was very helpful in terms of giving me the resources to find this job,” he said. “The university also gave me a great foundation in coding and a broader skill set in media and sciences, which allowed me to explore my creative side.”
Another Indian student, Ana Girish, completed her degree in aerospace engineering with a focus on astronautics. Her academic achievements have already translated into a promising career, as she has been hired as an associate product engineer by Solestial, a startup based in Arizona that specializes in developing solar panels for use in space. Girish’s accomplishment is a testament to the rigorous education and professional preparation offered by ASU’s engineering programs, as well as to the increasing role Indian students are playing in emerging technologies.
ASU President Michael Crow recently visited India and emphasized the university’s continued dedication to strengthening ties with the country. He expressed optimism about the growing number of Indian students choosing ASU for their education and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to their success.
“ASU is a place that is deeply committed to the students who come here,” Crow said. “We are expecting more students from India than ever, and we are ready and excited to welcome students who are eager to learn and succeed.”
To celebrate its international community and recognize their contributions, ASU hosted an International Student Celebration on May 10, just ahead of its main commencement ceremonies. This event served as a platform to honor the diverse cultural and academic impact of students from around the world, particularly those from India whose presence continues to grow on campus.
ASU’s strong relationship with India is not limited to its current student body. Over the years, the university has built a vast and vibrant network of Indian alumni, now numbering more than 20,000. This extensive alumni base highlights the enduring academic connections ASU has cultivated with India and reflects the long-term impact Indian students have had on the university and beyond.
As ASU continues to expand its international reach, the rising number of Indian students and alumni stands as a testament to the university’s global reputation and inclusive academic environment. The support structures in place, from career development to academic mentoring, play a critical role in helping international students achieve success both during their studies and in their professional lives.
The increasing enrollment of Indian students also reflects broader global trends in international education, where U.S. universities remain among the most sought-after destinations for advanced study. For Indian students in particular, institutions like ASU offer a unique combination of high-quality education, practical training opportunities, and access to cutting-edge research, especially in fields like engineering, computer science, and space technologies.
Omkaar Shenoy’s journey from Kerala to Philadelphia, and Ana Girish’s transition from ASU to an aerospace startup, are just two examples of the opportunities ASU provides to its Indian student community. These success stories highlight how the university not only prepares students academically but also equips them with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive global job market.
The presence of more than 7,000 Indian students at ASU today, combined with its rapidly expanding alumni network, shows no signs of slowing down. ASU’s leadership remains committed to enhancing this relationship, providing Indian students with a welcoming and supportive academic home in the U.S.
As President Michael Crow remarked during his visit to India, “We are expecting more students from India than ever, and we are ready and excited to welcome students who are eager to learn and succeed.” These words reflect ASU’s broader mission of inclusivity and its dedication to preparing students from around the world to be leaders in their fields.
The university’s efforts to honor international students through events like the International Student Celebration not only acknowledge academic success but also foster a sense of belonging and appreciation for the cultural diversity that enriches campus life. These events serve as a reminder of the essential role international students play in shaping the university’s global identity.
With over 20,000 Indian alumni already making their mark around the world and thousands more currently enrolled, Arizona State University continues to be a beacon for academic excellence and opportunity for Indian students. Whether through groundbreaking work in aerospace, impactful coding contributions, or future innovations, ASU’s Indian graduates are leaving a lasting impression — one that will inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps.
In celebrating this year’s achievements, ASU has once again demonstrated its enduring commitment to empowering students from India and around the globe to reach their full potential and make a meaningful difference in the world.