A degree for two: How one mother’s determination shaped her family’s future
When Sylvia Gichana walked across the stage at the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) Spring 2025 Commencement ceremony to receive her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, she was not only graduating — she was rewriting her family’s narrative. A first-generation college student, a mother, and an immigrant, Sylvia’s journey to that moment was anything but ordinary.
Born in Kenya, Sylvia grew up speaking English as her third language. Adjusting to life in the United States came with challenges, from cultural shifts to mastering academic language, but she met each one with quiet determination. Her college journey began at the University of Texas at Arlington, where she majored in biomedical engineering. But when she found out she was expecting her first child, Sylvia made the difficult decision to leave her college dorm and return home to Houston to raise her daughter. It was a turning point, not a setback.
While researching universities closer to home, Sylvia discovered UHCL. The university’s reputation for academic excellence stood out. But what really drew her in was the strong sense of community and support that UHCL is known for. As a new mother and a transfer student, she needed more than a campus — she needed a village. And at UHCL, she found one.
“While searching for schools in the area, I chose UHCL because of its strong sense of community and the reputation of its College of Science and Engineering (CSE),” said Sylvia.
Balancing motherhood and academics was not easy. Sylvia remained a full-time student throughout college, navigating everything from late-night study sessions to early morning daycare routines. She credits her grandmother for stepping in to help care for her daughter and being her constant source of encouragement. Evening classes, long hours of coding, and exams were particularly tough. But thanks to the unwavering support of her grandmother and understanding UHCL faculty, she pushed through.
“The hardest times were evening classes after 7 p.m.,” Sylvia recalled. “But UHCL’s professors were supportive, as long as I communicated and did the work.”
For Sylvia, being a first-generation college student gave every milestone deeper meaning. Her parents always emphasized the importance of education, and earning her degree was not just a personal accomplishment — it was a family triumph. “Many women in my family put their education on hold after starting a family,” Sylvia said. “I broke that cycle. I’ve earned my degree while raising my child.”
Despite defying the odds, Sylvia’s journey was not without hardship. However, UHCL showed up for Sylvia in meaningful, tangible ways during difficult times. When she experienced food insecurity, the university connected her with a food scholarship through a partnership with the Houston Food Bank. The Basic Needs Persistence Grant helped her afford new prescription glasses when long hours of screen time strained her vision. She also took full advantage of resources like Campus Recreation and Wellness to manage stress and maintain her physical health.
“Those resources mattered,” Sylvia emphasized. “They helped me stay focused and healthy. UHCL supported me holistically—mentally, physically, and academically.”
Sylvia also found guidance through UHCL’s S-STEM Scholarship, which opened doors to mentorship, research opportunities, and graduate school possibilities. Furthermore, she credited the university for helping her grow personally and professionally. With this kind of support, she discovered her confidence and her voice.
“UHCL helped me in multiple ways,” said Sylvia. “I took advantage of resume reviews and career workshops that taught me how to craft an elevator pitch and present myself professionally,” she explained. “The campus even provided access to a Career Closet, where students could borrow professional clothing for interviews and networking events. These resources were crucial in shaping my confidence and professionalism.”
Sylvia’s growing skill set and ambition led her to an internship with Bank of America in Plano, Texas, an opportunity she found through LinkedIn. With a foundation in programming, especially Python, and solid knowledge from her algorithm and technical writing courses at UHCL, Sylvia quickly adapted to the fast-paced environment. That internship turned into a second, and eventually, a full-time job offer from the Fortune 100 company.
“When I got the offer, I was overwhelmed,” Sylvia said. “I cried and looked at my daughter and said, ‘This is for you, this is our future.’”
Looking back, Sylvia is most proud of never giving up, especially when it would have been easy to. From adjusting to a new country and culture, raising a child, and navigating college in her third language, her journey reflects the kind of strength that UHCL aims to nurture in all its students.
Now a UHCL alumna and tech professional, Sylvia hopes her story will inspire other first-generation students, transfer students, and student-parents. “Keep going,” Sylvia advised. “Pursuing your education will elevate your life and inspire your children. You’re setting an example for them, showing them that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.”
For Sylvia, UHCL was not just a university — it was the bridge between a dream and its fulfillment. Her story is not just about success. It is about resilience, community, and the power of believing that where you start does not define where you finish.
For more information about UHCL’s CSE, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/. In need of assistance during hardship? Visit www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/advocacy/persistence-grant for more details.
