Cyber Security and Forensics MSc student and father-of-four Semir Idris’ life was changed after receiving a donor-funded scholarship earlier this year. Here he shares his inspirational journey overcoming financial and personal obstacles, showing the importance of making the most of every opportunity and never giving up.
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself and why you decided to go to university?
My name is Semir Idris. I am a husband and proud father of four children. I recently graduated with First Class Honours in Software Engineering BSc from the University of Bolton, and I am now pursuing a Cyber Security and Forensics MSc at the University of Westminster.
I decided to go to university because I’ve always had a passion for technology and problem-solving. After years of working in various roles to support my family, I realised that further education was essential to build a better future, not just for myself, but for my children as well. I wanted to prove that it’s never too late to follow your aspirations, no matter your circumstances.
Why did you choose the University of Westminster?
I chose the University of Westminster because of its excellent reputation in Cyber Security research and education and its forward-looking curriculum. The course content is practical, relevant and designed to tackle real-world challenges. I was also drawn to the University's values of equality, diversity and inclusion and social mobility, which resonated deeply with my own journey.
Have you faced any challenges during your university years and how has your experience at Westminster helped you to overcome those challenges?
Yes, there have been many challenges. Balancing academic life with my responsibilities as a father of four, including a newborn, has required a lot of resilience and time management. Financial hardship has also been a constant pressure.
However, the support I received from the University of Westminster has been nothing short of remarkable. In particular, I would like to thank Dr Funminiyi Olajide and Dr Ayman El Hajjar for their guidance, encouragement and personal investment in my success, which made a huge difference. They consistently went above and beyond to ensure I stayed on track, even when life became overwhelming.
You were awarded the Sony Interactive Entertainment Scholarship earlier this year. What did this achievement mean to you and how has it helped you achieve your goals?
Receiving the Sony Interactive Entertainment Scholarship was a transformative moment in my academic journey. Financially, it made an enormous difference and without this support, I genuinely believe I would have struggled to continue my studies. I began my course on 25 September 2024 and just two days after I was required to leave my flat as the landlord needed the property back, which meant I moved out the same week classes started. As a result, I missed the first week of lessons. I was initially reallocated by the council to temporary accommodation in a different area, and for several weeks I had to take my children back and forth to their school over six miles each way, which was incredibly challenging both mentally and financially.
On 9 November 2024, I was relocated again, meaning two major moves within just over a month. This situation put a huge strain on me, and I seriously considered withdrawing from the course. However, the Sony Interactive Entertainment Scholarship made a significant difference. The financial support helped me stay on track during this incredibly difficult period, especially as relocating required me to replace basic household items like a fridge freezer, bed, washing machine, cooker and television. Without the scholarship, managing all of this while trying to study would have been nearly impossible.
The burden of financial stress can be deeply distracting, and this scholarship gave me the breathing space I needed to fully focus on my coursework and research. But it was more than just financial aid; it was a powerful message of belief in my potential. It boosted my confidence and motivated me to keep going, even during the most difficult moments.
What difference do you think going to Westminster made in terms of your career and where you are in life?
The University of Westminster has had a profound impact on my life. It has given me the skills, qualifications and mindset needed to succeed in the field of cyber security. But more than that, it has given me confidence not only in my technical abilities but also in my capacity to overcome personal and professional challenges.
Studying at Westminster has opened doors that once seemed out of reach and provided me with a sense of belonging in a field where diversity and inclusion are still growing.
What advice would you give to anyone who dreams of studying at Westminster but feels that it’s out of their reach?
I would say don’t give up. I understand what it feels like to doubt yourself or to feel like university is not an option due to personal or financial reasons. But there are scholarships and support available, and the University of Westminster is a place that genuinely wants to help students succeed, no matter their background.
Believe in yourself, seek out the opportunities and ask for help when needed. If I can juggle studies, work and family life, and still graduate with First Class Honours, so can you.
What’s next for you?
I am currently focused on completing my Master’s in Cyber Security, with a dissertation focused on Cloud Security. My ambition is to build a career in cyber security where I can contribute to creating safer digital infrastructures and support organisations in defending against ever-evolving threats.
In the future, I hope to mentor and support others from similar backgrounds, to give back and show that with the right support and determination, anything is possible.
To find out more about how to sponsor a scholarship and support social mobility at Westminster, contact the University’s Development Team or visit the Development website.
Learn more about Computer Science and Engineering courses at the University of Westminster.
