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SJTU Recognizes Three JI Students as 2025 Outstanding Graduates

Three undergraduate students from the University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI) have been recognized as the 2025 Outstanding Undergraduate Graduates by Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU). This prestigious award, announced by the SJTU International Student Service Center, honors those international students who have shown exceptional academic performance, engagement in research, community service, and contributions towards cultural exchange.

The awardees, Jovan Yap Zheng Feng from Singapore, Kantaphat Leelakunwet from Thailand, and Niladri Saha Saccha from Bangladesh, were selected among 17 outstanding graduates across all SJTU international undergraduate students expected to graduate this year. Their achievements reflect not only their academic excellence but also their commitment to extracurricular and leadership activities.

Jovan Yap Zheng Feng has gained multiple academic honors during his time at JI, including the JI Tang Junyuan Scholarship and the UM McLane Family Scholarship. He has also earned recognitions such as UM Honors, being placed on the Dean's List, and the JI Excellence in Leadership Award. He will pursue a master's degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at the University of California, Berkeley, starting in August 2025.

"Interacting closely with both local and international peers at JI has been a great academic inspiration," Jovan shared. He aims to bridge the gap in global technological innovation and collaboration by leveraging diverse perspectives to address global challenges.

Kantaphat Leelakunwet, one of the top-ranked students in his major, has earned accolades including the Shanghai Government First-Class Scholarship and several JI-specific scholarships throughout his academic career. As President of the JI International Student Association in 2023 and a participant in the SJTU Elites for International Students program, he was also nominated for SJTU's 2024 Person of the Year award.

"My time at JI taught me the value of cultural connection and communication," Kantaphat expressed, underlining his goal to serve as a cultural ambassador between Chinese and Thai cultures.

Niladri Saha Saccha has also made notable contributions, serving as Vice President of the SJTU Global Competence Development Association and earning various scholarships, including the Shanghai Government Scholarship (Second Class) and the JI Wu Jiong & Sun Jie Rising Star Scholarship. His achievements culminated in winning top honors at competitions such as the Rongchang Cup Youth Global Governance Innovation Design Competition.

Niladri has been awarded a full scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the National University of Singapore, starting in 2025. He reflected on his experience at JI by stating, "Life at JI was dynamic and fulfilling. Through student clubs, sports, and cultural activities, I made lifelong friendships and gained valuable personal growth."

These students exemplify the well-rounded development that JI aims to cultivate in its international student body. They have actively engaged in various student organizations, academic competitions, and educational activities, contributing to the rich tapestry of cultural exchange at SJTU.

The recognition of these exceptional graduates highlights not only their individual successes but also reinforces the commitment of Shanghai Jiao Tong University to fostering an inclusive and vibrant community for international students.