A remarkable mother and daughter duo have celebrated a unique academic achievement, graduating side-by-side with the highest possible grades from the same postgraduate course at the University of Leicester.
A Shared Journey of Support and Success
Mehnaaz Fayaz, 46, and her daughter Kauser, 22, both received a distinction in their MSc in Cancer Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics. They collected their awards together during a moving ceremony at De Montfort Hall on Friday, 16 January. For Kauser, the moment was particularly special as it marked the first time they could celebrate their academic accomplishments simultaneously.
"Stepping onto the stage was exhilarating," Kauser said. She expressed immense pride in her mother, who achieved an even higher grade. "I also hope mum's achievements will inspire other women who might think they are too old to go to university, to pursue education - she's shown it's never too late."
Turning Grief into a Bonding Experience
The decision to study the same course was born from a period of personal loss. Mehnaaz had completed an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences at Leicester in 2021 and always intended to pursue postgraduate study. Kauser graduated from De Montfort University in 2024, around the time the family suffered a bereavement.
"After the loss, we felt that being on the same course would allow us to support one another through our grief and grow closer together while continuing our education," Kauser explained. Living together in their Leicester family home, they had to adapt to the novel dynamic of being university peers.
From Assumed Sisters to Academic Partners
The pair discovered their study styles differed, but they attended lectures together and worked effectively as lab partners on a project. Their daily walk to and from campus became a routine. Their relationship surprised classmates, who had assumed they were sisters due to their shared surname.
"There was no hierarchy in our relationship at university, our dynamic was very friendly and relaxed," Kauser noted. This equal footing defied typical expectations and highlighted their strong bond.
Since completing the course last autumn, their paths continue to align. Kauser has begun a role as a medical writer for a medical device company, with an interest in clinical research. Mehnaaz is about to start an internship as a medical article writer as she seeks research roles in scientific, pharmaceutical, or medical fields. Their story stands as a powerful testament to lifelong learning and the strength of family.
