In just three years and three months, May 2022 to August 2025, I transitioned from a “super introvert” girl from Barishal to an ambivert leader, completing my Bachelor’s in Environmental Science and Management with a minor in Media and Communications at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB).

The journey from Barishal to Dhaka

Coming from Barishal, the transition to managing a flat in the heart of Dhaka was a baptism by fire. Beyond the academic rigour, I was suddenly navigating the complexities of independent living: managing groceries, cooking, and finding my footing in a new, fast-paced environment. There were sleepless nights, moments of deep isolation, and the heavy weight of navigating personal “breakups”, the loss of friendships and the distance from my parents and my hometown.

However, it was through these struggles that I learned the true meaning of tolerance. My academic journey was not just about survival; it was about excellence. I am proud to have secured a place on the Dean’s List, the Dean’s Merit List, and twice on the Vice Chancellor’s List, proving that resilience and high honours can go hand in hand.

Bridging the gap: From campus to career

I believe that a degree is only half of the university experience. My professional journey began as the first Campus Ambassador for Walton Digitech, eventually leading me to my current role as a Campus Delegate for The Business Standard.

Expanding my horizons internationally, I served as a Remote Project Lead for Saint Louis University (USA) and was awarded 500 US dollars to redeem at that university for higher studies, and was selected for the Millennium Fellowship (UN-USA) 2025. On campus, I dedicated my time to leadership as an Executive Board member for the IUB River Conservation Club and the IUB Chess Club, where I transitioned from a quiet observer to a hostess and organiser of major events.

An exclusive seat at the table

As my campus presence grew, so did the recognition from university administration and alumni. One of my most cherished memories was receiving a special invitation to the Pro-VC’s Iftari in 2023, an exclusive gathering of only 150 IUBians.

Participating in the 16 December 2025 Savar tour to celebrate Victory Day and the Dhanmondi tour were profound blessings that deepened my connection to our national heritage. Furthermore, being invited to the EEE Alumni Day 2026 and receiving numerous Iftari invitations from various IUB clubs served as a testament to the bridges I built across departments. These moments represented a sense of belonging and influence I once thought was impossible to achieve.

Beyond the classroom

Growth often happens in the most unexpected places. Whether it was winning the IUB Women’s Cricket Tournament ’25 or being a runner-up in badminton, sports became my outlet for discipline. From volunteering at IEEE Day to providing protocol for IUB’s Convocations, and Hult Prize IUB working in the community segment, and IUB Job Fair Volunteer ’25, I learned that networking is about more than just business cards, it is about community. I went from being unable to make friends in my childhood to building a vibrant network, exploring everything from the Sundarbans to industrial visits in Gazipur and Savar.

The 135-Credit marathon

Completing an undergraduate degree in such a short timeframe required a relentless pace. I navigated a rigorous curriculum of 135 credits, balancing heavy course loads with a demanding thesis and a professional internship.

My journey at IUB was also defined by a deep-seated passion for research. I did not want to just study environmental science; I wanted to contribute to it. I am honoured to have published and presented my thesis research on Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and their impact on Urban Heat Islands at the 8th ICSD 2026 International Conference. This followed my earlier work on healthcare access presented at the Environment and Climate Change Conference 2025.

A note of gratitude

Alhamdulillah, this journey was never a solo trek. Allah has shown me the path, and it was paved by the unwavering support of my parents, my dedicated faculties, and a circle of supportive friends and seniors.

To those who doubted or gossiped: your scepticism provided the fuel I needed to reach my “apex.” I did not just earn a degree at IUB; I transformed from a small-town introvert into a powerhouse professional. As I close this chapter, I realise that the most important thing I learned was not in a textbook; it was the realisation that a girl from Barishal can take on the world and win.

Syeda Manzila Hossain is a Campus Delegate of TBS Graduates and She is currently pursuing her masters in Climate Change and Development CCD and holds a BSc degree in Environmental Science and Management from Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB).