From international student to commencement speaker
Farwa Basith’s journey of resilience and leadership
For many students, graduation day marks the culmination of years of hard work, challenges, and personal growth. But for Farwa Basith, University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) Fall 2024 Commencement will be a momentous occasion in more ways than one. She will take the stage to share a story of resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of education as the selected commencement speaker for the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) and College of Human Sciences and Humanities (HSH).
Basith is receiving a Master of Science in Engineering Management and said she chose the field because it is the perfect blend of technical expertise and leadership skills.
“I’ve always loved planning and organizing, and this degree has equipped me with the tools to manage projects, solve complex problems, and lead teams,” Basith shared. “I’ve also found a passion for helping organizations build efficient systems, and the drive to lead in project management roles post-graduation.”
For Basith, the choice to attend UH-Clear Lake was a personal one.
“From the moment I started exploring UHCL, it felt like home,” Basith said. “As an international student, I was drawn to the university’s welcoming and diverse community," she explained.
“The small class sizes allowed me to build close connections with professors and peers, while the proximity to Houston opened doors to valuable internship and career opportunities.”
However, the journey was not without its challenges. Moving to a new country, adjusting to a different culture, and being far from family were among Basith’s biggest hurdles.
“Balancing school, work, and finances sometimes felt overwhelming, but I stayed focused on my goals and leaned on the people who supported me,” said Basith. “The support of professors, friends, and family played a crucial role in overcoming the toughest moments.”
Basith added that UHCL’s Engineering Management department was pivotal in her success. Courses like Project Planning and Control provided hands-on experience, while the supportive faculty helped hone her skills.
The professors were always there, offering guidance and encouragement. They made learning collaborative, which really helped me succeed.
Throughout Basith’s journey at UHCL, she developed essential skills in project management, communication, and adaptability.
“UHCL taught me how to think critically and approach real-world problems with confidence,” Basith said. “These skills are fundamental for my future career in project management.”
Basith also made significant contributions as an International Student Diplomat outside of the classroom. This role allowed her to connect with students from around the world, further developing leadership and communication skills.
"It was a rewarding experience that helped me grow and feel connected to the UHCL community," Basith said. “It made me feel like I was a part of something bigger.”
As graduation approaches, Basith believes the future is filled with possibilities. Although she hasn't lined up a job yet, she is actively pursuing opportunities in project management.
“I’m excited about the future and confident that the experiences and skills I’ve gained at UHCL will help me find the right opportunity,” Basith said.
Basith expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of her family, especially her parents, stating that their belief in her, even from miles away, had been a constant source of strength. She also credits UHCL faculty and staff for their dedication to creating a supportive learning environment that made all the difference.
“Being selected as the commencement speaker for fall 2024 is a dream come true, it’s surreal,” Basith said. “I’m honored to represent my fellow graduates and share my journey. I hope to inspire others with my story of resilience and growth.”
For Basith, this commencement is not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of a new journey, as she reflected, saying, "This experience has been about more than just earning a degree; it’s about personal growth, building relationships, and discovering what I’m truly capable of."
As the fall 2024 graduates prepare to step into the next phase of their lives, Basith hopes her words will resonate with many: "Let’s go out there and make the world a better place in our own unique ways."
For more information about UHCL’s Engineering Management program visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/engineering-management-ms. For information about the fall 2024 commencement ceremony visit, www.uhcl.edu/academics/commencement/.
