Samit Wangnoo

Hometown: Delhi, India

Major: Master's in computer science. Graduated in December 2008.

Background: Wangnoo was working as a computer programmer in Delhi when he decided to further his education. Though he had never been to the United States, he had friends at Sacramento State who recommended it. "My friends said it was really good here, with lots of festivities." He has worked for Services to Students with Disabilities as a note-taker, math tutor and computer lab assistant and a supervisor in the computer lab. English is his second language.

Influences: "My brother. He lives in Australia, but he had visited the United States. He said it is very different here and it would be good for me. I talk to him every couple of days."

Highlight: "The professors, you can talk to them any time you want. In India, there is a gap between students and professors, but here they are really friendly."

Proudest Accomplishment: Being able to balance his studies and work. "I really like working with students with disabilities. It is really encouraging."

Destination: To work as a computer programmer in the United States after graduation.