S. M. Sarwar

Name: S. M. Sarwar
Age: 25
Major: M.S. in Computer Science
College: College of Engineering and Computer Science
Hometown: Bogura, Bangladesh
High School: Bogura Zilla School, Bogura, Bangladesh 

Why UTRGV?
First of all, as an international student, I was looking for the lowest price of attendance, and UTRGV is the one that gives us high-quality education at the lowest price. Second, I burned my budget by paying application fees, and UTRGV is a university with no application fee! I applied, and now, I am a proud member of Vaquero family.

What made you decide on your current major?
My undergraduate major was computer science and engineering; I love it and am passionate about it. I love this dynamic change and want to be a part of that change.

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
After graduation, I want to be a change-maker who will work for the people, for the earth and make everyone's life more peaceful. I have already started working on privacy-preserving machine learning that protects everyone's privacy without sharing personal data. In the future, I want to make this technology more functional to save energy and reduce carbon emissions to save our environment. 

What do you like most about UTRGV?
I would like to say Hispanic culture, good cool people who always help me and campus engagement activities. Another passion of mine is cultural activities like theatre and musical shows at the Performing Arts Complex and anywhere on campus. However, some organizations like Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization, Engineers Without Borders and Student Government Association always support me in growing.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Vaquero is someone who dares to chase their dream and does not care about adjacent atmospheres.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV turned me into what I wanted to be. After starting at UTRGV, I have engaged myself with research work, interacted with good professors in class, been involved with different student organizations, got opportunities to nurture my entrepreneurial journey, received support to participate in out-of-state programs, received support to mature my career from UTRGV Career Center and much more.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Explore your surrounding areas as much as possible and step out of your comfort zone. That's the only two lines for fellow students.