Returning to graduate school after eight years in the engineering field was not an easy choice for Md. Mazharul Islam — but it proved to be a defining one. Originally from Bangladesh, Islam earned his second master’s degree in civil engineering (water, environmental) on Monday, Dec. 15, during the inaugural Winter Graduate Celebration held at the UDC Student Center Ballroom, accompanied by his family. The milestone marked the culmination of a journey defined by perseverance and personal growth.
Reflecting on his path, Islam noted that the experience was both meaningful and challenging.
“After spending eight years in the industry, deciding to return to graduate school was one of the most important decisions of my life,” he said. “Balancing academics, family responsibilities and life in a new environment was not easy. There were many complex moments that tested patience and resilience, but they also shaped who I am today.”
That journey was also marked by profound personal loss. Islam lost his father earlier this year and reflected on what the moment would have meant to him.
“I carry his memory with me and dedicate this achievement to him,” he said, noting that his father would have been exceedingly happy to see him reach this milestone.
Throughout his time at UDC, Islam emphasized the importance of the support he received from faculty and peers, crediting his academic community with helping him persist through challenges.
“I am deeply thankful to my professor, mentor and advisor, Hossain Azam. He consistently reminded me, ‘You earned it,’ and always believed in my abilities. His guidance, trust and constant support made a tremendous difference throughout this journey.”
In addition to his advisor, Islam expressed gratitude for departmental leadership that encouraged his continued growth and engagement.
“I would like to sincerely thank our department chair, Pradeep Behera for his continued encouragement and support, and for always telling me to stay connected and keep him updated on my journey.”
He also acknowledged the role of collaboration and camaraderie among his peers, underscoring how essential that sense of community was to his success. He pointed specifically to the Water-Energy-Food-Climate Nexus Lab, a multidisciplinary research group focused on the interconnected challenges of water, energy, food and climate systems.
Islam received three full-time job offers in the U.S. water sector and accepted a position with Gannett Fleming TranSystems as a midlevel water process designer at the firm’s headquarters in the Greater Harrisburg area of Pennsylvania—a role closely aligned with his academic training and nearly a decade of professional experience in water and environmental engineering.
As UDC prepares to mark its 175th anniversary, Islam’s achievement reflects the university’s enduring commitment to preparing professionals who apply knowledge in service of communities. He now looks ahead to continuing his work in water and environmental engineering, building on the foundation and support he found at UDC.