Despite attending the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology at the same time and graduating in the same year, Irfan Al-Hussaini and Fabia Farlin Athena never crossed paths. After moving 8,000 miles across the world — Al-Hussaini in Spring 2018 and Athena in Fall 2019 — their paths finally intertwined during their studies at the Georgia Tech School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE).

“I remember seeing her first coming out of the car and thinking, wow, she is pretty,” recalls Al-Hussaini.  

Their initial meeting was subtle. Al-Hussaini was helping another student move the same day Athena arrived. Although their first interaction was brief, it sparked a curiosity and mutual respect that grew as they began to encounter each other in programs and activities offered by the Bangladesh student association. 

Over time, the pair found themselves working through their academic projects and sharing insights into their individual research with an unexpected partnership that laid the foundation for a deeper connection. 

A Blossoming Partnership 

As they navigated the demanding waters of Ph.D. studies, Al-Hussaini and Athena’s relationship blossomed. They supported each other academically and personally, making the challenges of research and study more bearable. Not long after their relationship took a romantic turn.  

“We went on a group trip to Utah and when we returned, I got the courage to finally tell her how I felt,” said Al-Hussaini.  

After spending time together (often studying), the decision to marry seemed a natural progression given their deep understanding of each other’s aspirations and personalities. They got married in Atlanta in 2022, surrounded by family and friends from both Bangladesh and the United States, marking a new chapter in their lives together. 

“Being married as classmates came with a lot of advantages,” said Athena. “Many Ph.D. students do not have the support of talking with people who understand the challenges, but I have a partner who I could plan my life and career with every step of the way.”