Shida Shirin

Profile

In a world that seemed to expect Shida to choose between her child and her future, she refused, making the brave decision to leave her baby, family and home country behind to pursue her Master’s in Interior Architecture.

Over the course of her studies, Shida came to the realisation that she wasn’t just working to achieve her degree, but showing her baby that a mother can dream, fight, and succeed, no matter what. As Shida holds her Master’s degree in her hands, she stands reassured in her belief that you can be both a great mother and a successful professional.

Find out more about Shida’s story below.

What programme did you study and why did you choose it?

I studied Interior Architecture, following completion of my Bachelor’s in India. I chose this programme because I’ve always loved drawing and design since childhood. Over time, I realised it’s the perfect field where I can blend creativity with real-world impact, allowing me to do what I enjoy while solving meaningful challenges.

What were the key differences you found between studying/living in India and Scotland?

In India, family support is a big part of life. My parents were always there to help take care of my baby while I focused on my studies. The extended family system and cultural norms make it easier to get help, especially when it comes to childcare. However, there was also a lot of pressure from relatives who judged my choices, like leaving my baby with my parents to pursue my dreams. The weight of these negative comments was heavy, and they made the journey emotionally difficult at times.

In Scotland, I had to manage everything on my own, without the immediate support of family. When I came here for my Master’s, I was away from my baby for several months, and that was one of the hardest parts. The loneliness and homesickness were real, but it also made me stronger. The cultural environment in Scotland was different too, with people being more focused on personal growth and pursuing professional goals, and there was less judgment about balancing motherhood and a career.

How did you manage to balance motherhood with your studies?

When I was studying for my Bachelor’s, being a mother and a student at the same time felt like carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders.

There were nights when I didn’t sleep at all. I would pump milk for my baby, feed him, and then sit at my laptop working on my thesis. It was exhausting physically, mentally, and emotionally. Every day, I felt like I was pulled in a hundred different directions. My heart ached every time I left my baby in my parent’s care, but I knew that if I didn’t push through, I would regret it for the rest of my life.

I questioned myself, doubted my choices, and felt like I was failing both as a mother and as a student. But then I would look at my baby, and I knew I had to keep going for him. I couldn’t let my dreams slip away just because it was hard. I couldn’t give up, no matter how many people told me I should.

To make it work, I created a daily plan, dividing my time between my baby, my studies, and the other parts of my life. Every day felt like a battle, but I kept fighting. I learned to embrace the chaos. I started to see how strong I was, how much I could endure.

After completing my Bachelor’s, I decided to push even further and apply for my Master’s degree. I was accepted to Heriot-Watt University, but that meant being away from my baby for four months. It broke my heart. I cried every day, missing him more than words could say, but I told myself that this sacrifice was temporary, and would be worth it. Video calls with my baby became my lifeline, keeping me going through the hardest moments.

When my husband and baby finally joined me, life didn’t get easier it just became more manageable. I still had to juggle my studies, my work, and my family. But now, I had a clearer sense of purpose. I wasn’t just working for a degree anymore, I was proving to myself, and to my baby, that no dream is too big if you’re willing to fight for it.

Did you receive any support during your time at Heriot-Watt?

My dissertation guide, Julie Smith, was the absolute best. Her positivity and constant support meant the world to me during such a challenging time.

In moments when everything seemed impossible, her encouragement made me believe in myself again and that I was on the right path. Julie’s support was a huge part of what kept me going through the tough moments of my dissertation, and I’ll always be grateful for that.

What advice do you have for current students?

My advice to current students would be this: Never give up on your dreams, no matter how tough things get. Life will always throw challenges your way, but it's how you respond to them that defines your success. Stay focused, stay organised, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you, and never let negativity or doubt hold you back. Most importantly, remember that balancing responsibilities may be hard, but it’s not impossible. With hard work, determination, and the right mindset, you can achieve both your personal and academic goals.

What are you planning to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I’m planning to continue building my career in architecture. I want to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained during my studies to real-world projects, and hopefully work with a firm that aligns with my values and passion for design. I also aim to keep growing professionally by pursuing further certifications and learning opportunities. Ultimately, I hope to balance my career with my family life, setting an example for my child that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter what challenges come your way.