Rasel Mahmud: Empowering International Students at Westcliff University and Beyond
Rasel Mahmud, currently pursuing his Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Westcliff University, exemplifies leadership, resilience, and a commitment to uplifting others. Originally from Bangladesh, Rasel is not just thriving in his academic journey but is also making a significant impact through his work as the founder and president of the nonprofit organization Bangladeshi International Students Association of California (BISAC). His journey is a testament to the power of education, community, and a determination to help others succeed.
International Student Support
Rasel’s vision for BISAC began with a simple yet profound mission: to ensure that Bangladeshi international students arriving in California feel supported and at home. “We are working for all Bangladeshi international students who come to California on an F-1 visa,” he shared.
From free airport pickup services for first-time arrivals to assistance in finding accommodations, BISAC is there every step of the way. The organization also hosts career development workshops, helping students craft resumes, prepare for job interviews, and connect with alumni who have successfully navigated similar journeys. Additionally, Rasel’s organization educates students on maintaining their F-1 visa status and provides mental health and other forms of support to help them overcome challenges.
“Our mission is to develop international students’ skills and give them comfort, making it feel like home,” Rassel explained.
Since its inception in 2023, BISAC has grown exponentially. “When we started, there were only 16 universities in our network. Now, we have 28 and are growing day by day,” Rassel noted proudly.
Learning and Growing at Westcliff University
Rasel attributes much of his success to the skills and confidence he developed at Westcliff University, particularly through his roles as a student ambassador and peer mentor. “There is so much I learned from Tayler Henslick, the Associate Director of Student Life. I learned how to plan, how to organize, how to communicate, and how to help people with wholehearted support,” Rasel shared.
Westcliff’s DBA program has also been instrumental in shaping his leadership abilities. Rasel praises the world-class professors, many of whom bring real-world experience to their teaching. “One of the unique aspects of our professors is that most of them come from the profession they teach. They are true experts in their fields,” he said. This practical, hands-on approach to learning has enabled Rasel to apply his education directly to his nonprofit work and beyond.
Westcliff: A Home for International Students
For Rasel, Westcliff is more than just a university—it’s a community. “I would say it’s a family. It’s not just a university. You will feel comfort, and it is a home for international students. So I would love to say, welcome to the family,” he said warmly.
Westcliff’s commitment to diversity and inclusion resonates deeply with Rasel. The university’s environment has inspired him to expand BISAC’s reach beyond the Bangladeshi community. “The last three to four months, we have been working to build relationships between different communities, different cultures, and different programs. We are just trying to make memories with them,” he shared.
Looking ahead, Rasel has ambitious plans for BISAC. This year, the organization will host its first graduate reception for Bangladeshi students in California, celebrating their achievements with friends and family. The event is expected to draw more than 500 attendees to celebrate the graduates incredible accomplishments.
Rasel’s long-term goal is to foster a sense of unity among diverse cultural communities, reflecting Westcliff’s ethos of global collaboration. “We’re working to ensure the organization is not just staying insulated to the Bangladeshi community but getting involved with other diverse cultural communities,” he explained.
Why California and Westcliff?
When asked why he chose to study in California, Rasel pointed to the state’s diversity, career opportunities, and incredible weather. “California has lovely weather and is amazingly diverse. When I ride on public transport, if there are 50 people, those 50 people come from 50 different countries. I really enjoy that,” he said.
Westcliff University stood out to Rasel for its supportive environment and emphasis on practical education. Programs like dissertation workshops, career services, and the robust alumni network have provided him with the tools to thrive academically and professionally.
Words of Encouragement for International Students Wanting to Study in the U.S.
To international students considering studying in the United States, Rassel offers this advice: “I would love to invite all international students to come to the United States, come to Westcliff, and empower yourself. Challenge yourself.”
Rassel Mahmud’s journey is an inspiring example of how education and community can transform lives. His work with BISAC and his achievements at Westcliff University are paving the way for a brighter future—not just for himself, but for countless other international students seeking to make their mark in the world.
Bangladesh students looking to attend university in California can find support from Westcliff by reaching out to: admissions@techsb.westcliff.edu.