Share:

Where in the World is Miami Wednesday: Meet an International Student from Bangladesh

By Karen O'Hara, Global Initiatives

In this week's Where in the World is Miami Wednesday, we meet Rafid Pranto, a sophomore international student from Bangladesh. He's majoring in Data Science and Statistics, with minors in Business Analytics and Computer Science.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I was born and raised in Dhaka, Bangladesh and attended a military-run residential school in Chittagong for six years before moving to the US for my undergraduate studies. I have a knack for writing and I have published a number of non-fiction articles in different online blogs and national magazines. During my leisure time, I like to read blogs and journals on miscellaneous topics, listen to music—mostly indie, pop, and country—and play online chess.

How did you get to know about Miami University and what made you choose it?

I first got to know about Miami University online while researching for US colleges for applying. Back then, the thing that caught my attention was that it was ranked among the top 5 US colleges for undergraduate teaching. Digging deeper, I liked the breadth and flexibility that Miami University provides in terms of academic curriculum. Then, I contacted with Mr. Bixler, who was an international admissions counselor, by email and got to know more about the ins and outs here.

After I was accepted to Miami University with a substantial amount of merit scholarship, it became one of my top two choices by the end of April 2019. And finally when I was accepted into the writing cohort of University Academic Scholars Program (UASP), I fully committed to Miami University, because it seemed the perfect match for me where I could stay in touch with my passion for writing while majoring in something I was planning to.

What has been your most memorable experience at Miami University?

I have already so many fond memories here in Oxford, so it's really difficult for me to single out one. After coming to Miami University, I watched American football and ice hockey games for the first time live in a stadium. I really loved watching hockey at the Goggin Ice Center and was a regular spectator. I loved being present those exuberant atmospheres and really miss not being able to experience those this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rafid and his friends

What has been the biggest difference between your home country and the U.S.?

I feel that people here are more punctual and professional than the people back in my home country...and I really like it!

What has been the biggest similarity between your home country and the U.S.?

I have found people of both the countries to be equally hospitable.

What organizations are you involved with on campus, and why?

Rafid Pranto gives a presentation

I am a part of the University Honors Program (UHP) and the writing cohort of University Academic Scholars Program (UASP). This year, I am working as a mentor for first-year students in the University Honors Program (UHP) and the Bridges Scholars Program. I am also an active member of National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH), which is mostly a service-based organization. In addition, I am involved with Miami University Student Ambassadors (MUSA) and Miami University Chess Club.

What does Love & Honor mean to you?

To me, "Love & Honor" signifies inclusion, mutual respect, and solidarity.

What do you like to do for fun?

Rafid and his friends peer through an Instagram frame

I like hiking, and playing chess, table tennis, and pool. I also enjoy mobile photography.

What is your favorite place to eat on campus?

On campus, my favorite place to eat is Bell Tower Place and Pulley's Diner. And I also like the Chinese restaurant "Phan Shin" in uptown.

How has Miami’s focus on a liberal arts-based education helped you?

It has enabled me to remain attached with my long-nourished passion of writing while majoring in something entirely different (I like my major too!) I think Miami's focus on liberal arts-based education is really great and I am extremely grateful for the academic flexibility I get here.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering pursuing their education at Miami University?

I'd say that they won't regret their choice...and definitely love the school spirit and culture here. Plus, Miami has a picturesque campus!!

 

Catch us next week as we continue to travel around the world to feature the amazing opportunities that Miami students are taking and the experiences our alumni have had since graduating!


Would you or someone you know want to be featured in a future Where in the World is Miami Wednesday?

Submit a Story