The rockefeller university

Living in a different country is always an adjustment. That’s why the campus group Rockefeller Initiative for Global Scholars (RIGS) works to help international scholars, from students to faculty, not only settle into life in the U.S. but thrive in it.

A delectable introduction to their programmatic offerings was held on October 23, when the group hosted its 10th Sweet Exchange Dessert Lunch with head of lab Steve Bonilla as faculty guest. Occurring every few months, the series provides the group a chance to chat over an international dessert. This event featured a tres leches cake from a local bakery.

Launched in April 2025, the series hosted its first guest in the spring when head of lab Lamia Wahba, who grew up in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, spoke about her career trajectory, including working at different institutions, navigating cultural and language barriers, and job hunting as a global scholar.

“I was happy to do it because it’s always inspiring to talk with young scientists, particularly ones that have ventured far from home in pursuit of science,” Wahba says. “RIGS provides a platform for international students and postdocs to find a little bit of home at Rockefeller. It’s a great resource.”

“It’s a fun, low-key way to advertise our club, let those interested know what we’re planning next, and celebrate community with a dessert from a different culture,” says luncheon organizer Ana-Maria Tanasescu, the RIGS staff representative and the laboratory manager of the Chen Lab. “And everyone is welcome to our events, not just internationals. We don’t exclude anyone.”

As part of their efforts, RIGS partners with many campus offices and groups, including the Dean’s Office and the Office for University Life and Community Engagement.

“We try to create a bridge to these offices to publicize what they offer and increase the ease of communication,” says Zihan-Raquelle Yu, the former president of RIGS and a graduate fellow in Paul Cohen’s lab.

The group creates various typs of programming throughout the year, which is informed by the experiences and needs of its members. For instance, RIGS also offers assistance on practical matters such as relocation, healthcare, and social security numbers, as well as events that range from career workshops to museum field trips. About 100 members are kept up to date via a listserv, WhatsApp and Slack channels, and the Classifieds.

“I’ve been an international student for more than a decade in the U.S.,” says postdoc representative Lily Yu, a Beijing native in Tarun Kapoor’s lab. “I’m passionate about helping other international scholars feel at home.”