When Arslan Kalandarov arrived at 91Թ from Turkmenistan, he carried with him more than just luggage. As the first in his family to attend college, he brought a deep sense of responsibility, determination and pride in his cultural heritage.
“I was incredibly happy when I got my first on-campus job,” he said. “After coming to the U.S., I knew I had a responsibility to become independent. When I got the job, I realized I could support myself financially, and I didn’t want to burden my family.”
Kalandarov is now a sophomore double majoring in international studies and human development and family science. His path reflects a commitment not only to his own future, but also to the students and communities he hopes to serve.
From Turkmenistan to Kent
Growing up in Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan – often called the Marble City – Kalandarov was inspired by his country’s rich history, traditions and landscapes. He describes Turkmenistan as a place known for its hospitality, resilience and cultural pride.
That pride shaped his academic journey. Through the Undergraduate Cohort Advising Program, a competitive college-preparatory initiative, he learned how to navigate U.S. admissions and applied to more than two dozen universities. Kent State stood out as the best fit.
Part of what drew Kalandarov to Kent State was a personal introduction to the university. While volunteering at an Undergraduate Cohort Advising Program event in his home country, he helped organize a presentation where Kent State was represented by faculty, staff and students. That day, he met Marcello Fantoni, vice president in the Office of Global Education, and Ogulkeyik Hudayberdiyeva, a fellow Turkmen student studying international relations at Kent State. Their stories and encouragement left a lasting impression.
"I was so excited on that day,” Kalandarov said. “I talked a lot with them and they told me a lot about university life at Kent State. Most importantly, they inspired me to apply.”
He was accepted to 15 universities but chose Kent State because it was the best fit personally, academically and financially.
He earned both a global scholarship and an Honors scholarship, and with additional support from his home country, he was able to cover his tuition.
When he arrived, the Kent community’s warmth eased the transition.
“Kent State was really welcoming – especially my professors and the community,” Kalandarov said. “They were always friendly. If I had any kind of questions, they were always ready to answer, and my professors were always supportive.”
A Double Major With Purpose
Kalandarov first enrolled in international studies, but his academic journey quickly expanded.
During his first semester, he discovered the human development and family science program. Encouraged by supportive professors and advisers, he declared it as a second major. The combination made sense for his goals.
“My main goal is to work internationally,” Kalandarov said. “I had a lot of consultations with my advisers, and they recommended it as a best fit for my future career.”
For him, international studies is more than just a field of study.
“I think my major is more than just a major – it is a gateway to understanding the world,” Kalandarov said. “When things like climate change, migration, conflicts and inequality start affecting us, this field prepares everyone to think critically about international systems, cultures and more.”
Finding Independence on Campus
Kalandarov’s first campus job at the Recreation and Wellness Center became a cornerstone of his experience. Now a facility specialist, he is responsible for administering first aid during emergencies and creating a welcoming environment for patrons.
“By communicating at the Recreation Center, I gained a lot of knowledge because I met people from different backgrounds and different countries,” he said.
He also works with the Flash Activities Board, first as a volunteer and now as an event staff member. Organizing activities like karaoke nights, WinterBlast and holiday celebrations helps him connect with other students while applying lessons from his majors.
“In my country, we don’t celebrate Halloween,” Kalandarov said. “When I came to the U.S. I got to experience it not only by attending the event, but also by organizing it. It felt so special to me.”
Leadership Through Service
Beyond jobs and academics, Kalandarov is a peer mentor in the Honors College, guiding younger students through the challenges of adjusting to university life. He is also a member of Alpha Lambda Delta.
His leadership extends beyond Kent. In Turkmenistan, he launched the EmpowerHer Project, an initiative that provided free online education to more than 150 women and youth. With the help of volunteers, the program offered courses in languages, math, web development and cooking.
“My main goal was to support women who could not get a better education because of their family or financial situation,” Kalandarov said. “When I did that project, I was really proud of myself because I was making a lot of people so happy.”
Reflections from Faculty and Staff
Josh Stacher, Ph.D., professor of international studies, said Kalandarov’s empathy and dedication make him stand out on campus.
“Arslan is empathetic to those around him – he is not here to learn what he can learn to benefit himself only,” Stacher said. “He is a true resource for our students wishing to learn about his country. Arslan represents himself and Turkmenistan in ways that would make anyone proud.”
Stacey Spearman, Honors College academic advisor and coordinator I of admissions, said Kalandarov’s impact extends beyond academics.
“Arslan is an excellent representative of Turkmenistan – his resilience and cultural pride shine through in my interaction with him,” she said. “Arslan is a caring, committed, and outgoing member of our Honors College community.”
Personal Interests and Music
Kalandarov also expresses himself through music. After taking a Western music course, he joined the Kent State Coro Cantare Choir, where he performed in two concerts.
“I really improved my voice, and my professor helped me improve my singing skills,” Kalandarov said. “I was so proud of myself when I was on the stage.”
Outside of class, he enjoys swimming, drawing, do-it-yourself projects and traveling.
Looking Ahead
Kalandarov hopes to pursue internships at embassies and eventually work in diplomacy or with EducationUSA, advising students who dream of studying abroad.
He encourages prospective students to consider Kent State.
“At Kent State, you have a lot of opportunities to improve yourself both academically and personally,” Kalandarov said. “There are a lot of advisors and professors who are supportive.”
As he reflects on his journey, Kalandarov stays rooted in the values of his home country.
“Coming from such a beautiful and culturally rich background inspires me every day to work hard and stay motivated,” he said. “At Kent State I am doing a lot of things to represent my country as a proud international student.”
Kalandarov will be speaking at Cultural Café from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15 in the Kent Student Center Dining Room (218).
###
Media Contact:
Jim Maxwell, 330-672-8028, JMAXWEL2@kent.edu