Finding community and confidence: Manavi Trivedi’s journey from India to WMU
KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Manavi Trivedi, an international graduate student from India pursuing an MBA in business analytics, chose Western Michigan University for more than academics. It was about finding a place that would support her through transformation, challenge and growth.
“Leaving home taught me that the right university isn’t just one that educates you, but one that holds you through change,” she says. “As an international student, choosing WMU meant trusting that I would be supported while navigating life in a new country.”
From the moment she arrived in Kalamazoo, Trivedi says she felt welcome.
“WMU’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity creates an environment where students from different cultures and backgrounds are welcomed, respected and encouraged to belong,” she says.
“Choosing WMU was choosing a community that values people first, a place where I could grow with confidence, stay true to myself and build my future knowing I am not alone.”
“My favorite part of being a WMU student is how alive and deeply supportive the entire experience feels, both inside and outside the classroom."
Events such as Bronco Bash, Business Bash and career fairs foster a strong sense of connection and opportunity, says Trivedi. "There is always something happening that brings people together and makes the campus feel like a true community.”
Her involvement in student organizations has played a major role in shaping her academic and professional journey. Through the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), Trivedi gained insight from potential employers. “Meeting company recruiters in-person helped me understand what organizations truly seek in a candidate,” she says. “Those conversations transformed my career goals into clear, achievable steps.”
As a member of Beta Alpha Psi, an international honor organization for students studying accounting, finance, and information systems, Trivedi participated in professional site visits and social outings that strengthened her confidence and friendships. “These experiences reminded me that learning often happens through people and shared moments, she says.
“What I love most is the balance WMU offers between ambition and joy,” explains Trivedi, noting activities like Zumba, salsa lessons and creative events also compliment her campus life. “These experiences add connection and meaning."
Trivedi has no shortage of names when she reflects on the faculty and advisors who help her at WMU, especially those in the Haworth College of Business. According to the latest Post Graduation Activity Survey, 98 percent of Broncos had instructors who made them feel excited about learning. University staff made her feel at home, despite being so far away from her family.
Trivedi plans to graduate in the spring of 2027. After, she intends to pursue a Ph.D. in finance. Nine out of 10 Broncos are employed quickly, working in their field in jobs they like, according to the Survey.
"I would love to gain research and professional experience in the U.S., especially within academia and financial research, while keeping an open perspective toward contributing internationally, including in India," Trivedi says. "My goal is to build a career that bridges academic research and practical financial market applications on a global scale."
About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education
The Diether H. Haenicke Institute for Global Education, established in 1998, fosters an environment that supports the global engagement of the Western community. Its offices assist nearly 2,000 international students and alumni at home and abroad with admissions, immigration, student success and post-graduation job training.
The institute also facilitates short- and long-term study abroad programs for students, faculty and staff. It hosts a variety of global learning activities, such as designing and promoting scholarship and academic opportunities on campus; providing K-12 outreach; hosting lectures, panels and events; and showcasing arts, entertainment and culture from around the world. Learn more about the Haenicke Institute for Global Education.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.
