From Bangladesh to the desert: Shahil’s journey of growth at the University of Arizona

When Shahil arrived in Tucson from the northern region of Bangladesh, he was stepping into the unknown—a new country, a new culture, a new everything. A sophomore studying Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Arizona, Shahil is already making the most of his experience, turning unfamiliar terrain into a place that feels like home.

The decision to study at the U of A didn’t come lightly. After researching countless universities, Shahil was drawn to the school’s highly ranked academic programs, particularly in engineering. “The Computer Science and Engineering program is ranked nationally,” he said. But it wasn’t just the numbers that impressed him. It was the people. One of the faculty members spent an hour talking with him, helping him understand how the program aligned with his goals. That kind of personal attention meant everything.

Now well into his second year, Shahil is fully immersed in campus life—studying, hiking, cooking, making friends, and laying the groundwork for a future he once only dreamed about. Transitioning to life in the U.S. has been a journey, but Shahil found comfort in community. He made his first close friends while working a summer job with the university’s Guest and Housing Services department. The experience introduced him not only to campus operations but also to people from all over the world—one of whom taught him to crochet, a hobby he took up enthusiastically. “It’s something I never thought I’d enjoy, but now it’s a way to relax and create.”

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Shahil has also become an important voice for other international students. As a Unibuddy for the University of Arizona International Admissions team, he chats with prospective students around the world, answering questions about life in Tucson, academics, and adjusting to college life. “I know how overwhelming it can be to make this decision,” he said. “Being able to share my own journey and offer encouragement makes the experience come full circle.”

One of Shahil ’s biggest passions since coming to Tucson has been cooking. Before he left Bangladesh, he packed spices and jars of ghee in his suitcase. He now uses these comforts of home to cook traditional dishes like his mother’s chicken curry. “Back home, I wasn’t allowed in the kitchen much,” he shared. “Now I have to cook for myself, and I’ve really come to love it.” His culinary curiosity has expanded thanks to his international circle of friends. He recently cooked lasagna after getting tips from Italian classmates, and he’s currently working on perfecting a kebab recipe taught to him by a friend from Uzbekistan.

Beyond the kitchen, Shahil has embraced Tucson’s natural beauty. “I love hiking, and the mountains here are incredible,” he said. “Mount Lemmon, especially watching the sunset from there, is unforgettable. People say Arizona has the best sunsets, and now I believe them.” He’s eager to explore more, with Sabino Canyon and even skiing on his growing Tucson bucket list.

Shahil ’s academic path took an exciting turn when he landed an internship with the Asteroid Lab at U of A, part of the Undergraduate Research Exploration Program (UREP). Working under Dr. Jekan Thanga, Shahil is learning how computer science can intersect with space exploration. “I didn’t realize how many opportunities there were for software and machine learning in the aerospace field,” he explained. “This internship helped me see that my skills could be applied in space science—and now, I’d love to work at NASA someday.”

Shahil is passionate about more than just machines and space. He’s driven by a desire to use his education for the greater good. “Growing up in Bangladesh, I saw how access to resources can change lives. Not everyone has the same opportunities I’ve been given,” he said. “One day, I hope to help expand access to education through technology—maybe even create affordable satellite systems to bring learning to rural areas.”

Reflecting on his first year, Shahil recalls a few standout moments: earning an A in a tough math class, participating in his NASA-funded internship, and the unexpected joy of learning crochet. “Each of those moments made me feel like I was growing—not just as a student, but as a person.”

To prospective international students, Shahil ’s message is clear: come with an open heart. “The U of A has everything—strong academics, vibrant student life, and support systems that truly care. You’ll find a place here, just like I did.” And as he continues exploring, learning, and connecting, Shahil is proving that even the boldest dreams can begin with a single step—across the world, and into the future.