Meet Mohammed: CBU International Student Ambassador

Mohammed Alsheikh is a junior at California Baptist University (CBU), studying Software Engineering. Born in Germany and raised in Jordan, he brings a global perspective to everything he does. Passionate about technology, leadership, and community, he is dedicated to helping others while preparing for a future in software engineering. Outside of academics, Mohammed enjoys playing soccer, spending time with friends, and experimenting with new recipes.

Why did you choose to study at CBU?  

CBU stood out for its welcoming community, strong engineering programs, and personalized support for international students. The small class sizes allow for meaningful connections with professors, and the university’s leadership development opportunities and diverse student body made it the perfect place for both personal and professional growth.

How important was the international student community to you when researching schools? 

It was extremely important to me. Moving to a new country comes with unique challenges, from adjusting to a different academic system to building a social network from scratch. Knowing that CBU had a strong international student community reassured me that I would have a support system in place to help with the transition.

Having access to a network of international peers means more than just making friends—it provides shared experiences, mentorship, and valuable advice on navigating life as a student in the US. 

How important were internship and career outcomes to you when choosing a school? 

Career development was a top priority for me when choosing a university. As an international student, I knew that my time in the US is limited, so I wanted a school that would help me make the most of every opportunity—both academically and professionally.

CBU offers strong industry connections, hands-on learning, and internship opportunities, which are critical for gaining US work experience and building a professional network. These experiences not only help international students like me apply our skills in real-world settings but also improve long-term career prospects both in the US or abroad.

What student organizations are you involved in at CBU? 

I’m actively involved in two leadership roles at CBU:

• International Student Ambassador – Advising prospective international students interested in studying at CBU and supporting new international students transition smoothly to life at CBU.
• Resident Advisor (RA) – Leading and supporting a diverse group of students in CBU’s residence halls.

Additionally, I’ve participated in engineering-focused student groups to develop my technical skills.

What are some memorable on-campus jobs or internship experiences you’ve had?

One of my most rewarding experiences has been working as a Resident Advisor (RA). This role has taught me leadership, empathy, and how to build a strong community while supporting students in their college journey.

Another highlight was developing a campus app that combined my technical skills with my passion for improving the student experience. This project allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to a real-world setting and make a meaningful impact on campus.

Why did you join as an admissions ambassador? 

I wanted to give back to the international student community and help others transition smoothly. Moving to a new country can feel like a lot, and I know how valuable it is to have support and guidance from someone who has been through the same experience. It’s incredibly rewarding to help students feel at home at CBU and inspire them to make the most of their time here.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to prospective international students?

Be patient with yourself as you navigate the college admissions journey. The best way to set yourself up for success is to proactively ask questions and seek guidance early. If you want to learn more about academics, internships, campus life, financial aid, or immigration, reach out to our student ambassadors and admissions officers. We’ve been in your shoes and are here to help! 

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to grow, explore, and build your future—make the most of it by connecting with those who can support you. 

What should prospective international students ask you about? 

I’d love to share insights on adjusting to life in the US, balancing academics and social life, and making the most of CBU’s resources. I can also offer tips on finding internships, leadership opportunities, and getting involved on campus.

Have more questions?  Chat with me on CBU’s Admissions Portal.

Know CBU is the school for you? Apply now.