For Give Green Day, coming up on March 14th, 2023, International Studies and Programs is highlighting the International Student Emergency Fund. This award, distributed by the Office for International Students, supports global Spartans experiencing unexpected hardships to help them continue with their degree at MSU. Leading up to Give Green Day, we are sharing stories from former recipients of the award. Finally, meet Mudita Jagota. 

Mudita Jagota from Faridabad, India, is in her second year of her MA in Rehabilitation Counseling at MSU. 

Jagota is a person with a disability, and a wheelchair user. When she came to East Lansing in 2021, she brought her travel wheelchair. However, it wasn’t appropriate for everyday use, as it wasn’t specified for her size, height, and specific spinal deformities. 

A new, customized wheelchair can cost $30,000. Even with insurance, Jagota needed $3,000 to for her copay. She turned to her department for help, and to OISS. 

With $1000 from the International Student Emergency Fund, Jagota was able to pay for her new wheelchair, which she uses and appreciates every day. 

Jagota says her favorite feature in the new wheelchair is the height elevation function, which allows her to be at eye level when speaking with people who are standing. 

It also gives her more independence. She recently traveled from her internship site at the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities on campus, back to her apartment only in her chair. The speed, stability and battery life of this new wheelchair made this possible. 

Jagota said it’s important for international students to stay connected on campus. There are so many resources available, and help is out there if students take the step to apply. 

“It can be difficult asking for financial support,” Jagota said. “You can feel shame and concern about what other people think.” 

Still, Jagota knows it’s especially important for international students to get help, and to do so with a view of the future in mind. 

“International students sacrifice a lot when they leave their home and come to a whole new world to pursue their dreams,” Jagota said. “You take the support now and then you give it back when you are able.” 

Receiving an award from the International Student Emergency Fund made a big difference at a difficult time in Mudita’s life. 

Make an impact in more student’s lives by donating on Give Green Day.