Sha Md Farid’s journey from a humble home to earning a master’s degree at Wilmington University is a testament to perseverance, parental sacrifice, and the power of believing in something bigger. He offers an essay.

My name is Sha Md Farid. I recently completed my Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (IST), with a concentration in Information Assurance, from Wilmington University.

As an international student, this achievement means more than just a degree — it’s the fulfillment of a dream born in a small, humble home in rural Bangladesh. I come from a middle-class family, where studying abroad was never a guaranteed path. It was a hope, a prayer, a sacrifice made by loving parents who gave up their own comforts so their son could chase something bigger.

I was the first in my entire family to travel abroad for education. I earned my bachelor’s in Business Administration from Woosong University in South Korea with distinction. Coming from a business background, transitioning into the world of technology was not easy, but I never gave up. I chose to pursue my MS in IST at Wilmington University, and today, I can proudly say that I have not only completed my degree with a strong CGPA but also co-authored peer-reviewed research articles in collaboration with scholars from around the world.

This journey was never just about me; it was about proving that no dream is too big, no background too small. Many of my friends hesitate to pursue an IT degree because they come from business or non-technical fields. I want them to know that it’s possible. I want parents like mine, who gave everything without ever asking for anything in return, to know that their sacrifices were not in vain.

Every time I see a student’s story shared on the Wilmington University Facebook page, I feel inspired. My story is my gift to my parents, telling them, in a language beyond words, that their love and struggle created something beautiful. 

Wilmington University didn’t just shape my career; it transformed the way I see myself and the world around me. After graduation, it’s as if a new light has entered my life. I see opportunities where I once saw barriers, and I feel strength where I once felt uncertainty. This journey has given me hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging that I will cherish forever. I will always be grateful to this University for helping me rise beyond what I ever thought possible.  

Farid completed his studies in May of 2025, earning an M.S. in Information Systems Technology, with a concentration in Information Assurance.