Brother and sister-in-law awarded graduate degrees at Spring 2024 Commencement

Tijani and Humu Mohammed at the Spring 2024 commencement ceremony.

On Thursday, May 9, 2024, a brother and sister-in-law from Ghana received their diplomas during the College of Science and Engineering’s spring 2024 commencement ceremony. 

Tijani Mohammed earned his Ph.D. in materials science, engineering, and commercialization, and Humu Mohammed earned her master of science in mathematics.

Tijani recalls his experience finishing high school and being a first-generation prospective student from Ghana.

“My parents wept because they realized they couldn’t afford to pay for my college tuition even after I got an admission,” Tijani said.

Tijani and Humu pose for a photo at University Events Center.

He deferred going to the University of Ghana for one year to work and save money. After deferring his application, he found out he was selected as one of the candidates for a scholarship to study in Ukraine. 

Since then, Tijani has gained a certificate and numerous degrees including a Ukrainian language diploma, a bachelor of science in civil engineering in Ukraine, a master of science in civil engineering and now a doctorate in materials science, engineering, and commercialization from Texas State University.

Tijani believes there are two ways that people come across their graduate degrees. 

“One is through determination and knowing exactly what you want, and the other is by purely stumbling onto a program that you might eventually love. The latter has been my journey so far…stumbling on opportunities and falling in love with them along the way,” he said.

On the other hand, Humu’s interests were always clear, having grown up with a keen interest in mathematics.

The Mohammed family poses for a group photo following graduation.

“Mathematics offered me a unique perspective on the world around me. It became more than a subject; I perceived it as a form of communication we use in our everyday lives from the simplicity of counting to solving more complex mathematical problems,” Humu said.

She previously earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and economics from the University of Ghana. 

“My academic journey has been driven by my love for mathematics and a desire to nurture and expand my understanding of the field. Graduate school is a significant commitment, but it is worth every bit. Trust that you are capable, and when you feel prepared, take that leap,” Humu said.

Both Tijani and Humu had their family to turn to as a source of inspiration. Tijani had his wife, who was pursuing her doctorate at the same time as him.

“She passed her oral and comprehensive exams while heavily pregnant. As she was a graduate instructor, she went back to teaching 5 days after giving birth to our beautiful daughter,” said Tijani. “I always reminisce about this moment and tell myself that I have no excuse, especially if my wife could do what she had done. My daughter and wife are always my number one source of inspiration.” 

Humu also reflected saying, “Obtaining my graduate degree marked a significant milestone in my academic journey, which had its share of ups and downs. Their unwavering support and encouragement throughout this journey gave me the confidence to overcome the challenges along the way, and I am grateful.”

The two graduates discussed their favorite part of being a TXST graduate student. Tijani recalled his library trips with his wife on the San Marcos Campus.

“I love the TXST campus, the beautiful and resourceful library is a haven for students to hide out and be with their thoughts to improve themselves. I remember I used to have library dates with my wife when she came to town to visit,” he said.

Humu believes it was the faculty, staff, and fellow students who were always willing to provide guidance that contributed to her success.

“The strong sense of community made TXST feel like a home away from home, making my time there memorable.”

About her brother-in-law, she says, “he is truly an exceptional individual. His kindness, intelligence, sense of humor, and dedication to helping others truly stand out. Dr. Mohammed exemplifies what it means to be amazing.”

Tijani also had his fair share of praises for his sister-in-law.

“Humu is an amazing human being who after so many misfortunes in her life decided to pursue a graduate degree in Mathematics. She has shown more courage to overcome different obstacles during her graduate college journey,” he said. “I know one thing for sure: her young son will be super proud of his mama and her achievement, and I know this is just the beginning for her.”