Bushra Danish Talpur
BIO
PhD candidate in architecture and construction (Italy) and assistant professor at Dawood University of Engineering and Technology Karachi (Pakistan). Mother-of-three.
Bushra Danish Talpur
"To change your life, you have to change yourself."
It’s been 15 years since my journey began. It all started with my admission to the undergraduate school of architecture and getting married in the same year. I had no plan to have kids before ending school, but I was blessed with a baby boy during the 3rd year of my studies. That year was a struggle, as attending 90% of classes was mandatory for final exams.
During my final year of school, I delivered a baby girl. I never thought that I should stop my career journey despite so many mom responsibilities. I always think positively and focus on opportunities that make my path easier.
As soon as I ended school, my goal was to start working at an architectural firm. Simultaneously, I started looking for higher education abroad. I was awarded a fully funded fellowship from USAID for my master’s studies.
During my master's, I used to make my children sleep early so that I could study till midnight, finish my assignments and prepare for exams. 4/5 hours rest at night was the only option left for me.
As part of the program, I had to go to the USA, which was the most challenging decision of my life. I had to leave my 3- and 4-year-old children behind when they wanted me the most. Sometimes I used to regret leaving them, but my strength was gave me a sense of purpose and direction in my life.
I never compared myself with others (especially moms) because I knew the more we compare ourselves to others, the less happy we become.
Our mind works how we train it and how we want to proceed in our lives. Our beliefs and values shape our actions and decisions. Motivation to reach someplace and make myself and the people associated with me proud always played a vital role in my struggles.
In the society where I was brought up, no one supported an independent and ambitious woman, but with determination, I have been able to overcome many obstacles. Fortunately, my husband never stopped me or asked me to give up on my dreams.
Currently, I’m a mother of three and also serving in the position of an assistant professor in a public sector university in Pakistan and doing a Ph. in architecture, construction, and design in Italy. My real struggle started when I arrived in Italy, as it appeared to be a completely foreign country to me because of the language barrier and too many post-arrival bureaucratic tasks to complete within a few weeks. It's been almost one year, and I am not able to bring my family to Italy because getting a visit visa from my country is not possible. I have to apply for a family reunion visa, which is a long process.
I’m glad and I’m blessed with such an understanding and supportive husband; he played a positive role in every decision of mine. I must also not forget all the beautiful women in my life because they are the reason behind my success.
I’m fortunate to have received positive support and encouragement from the women in my life. This includes my mother, mother-in-law, and all six of my sisters. They were always there to uplift me when I felt discouraged. Three of my sisters-in-law were always there to support me in any way possible. My lovely friends from university life are still one call away.
Throughout my journey, what fascinated me the most was the positive feedback from my friends, colleagues, and young junior girls. They always admired my spirit and determination toward my goals, with a balanced, happy family life. My advice to them is, “To change your life, you have to change yourself.”