Uchenna Emmanuel J. Anyaoha – MASc ’19 (Civil Engineering)
Why did you choose to study at UBC Okanagan?
UBC has an accredited and well-established research institution with profound professors and students from around the World.
What has the experience been like thus far?
It has been challenging but at the same time I must confess, it is exciting. Thus, having to learn about new ideas, technique and also get to meet new people is what makes it worthwhile. I have learned to appreciate the journey knowing that little steps forward make a mile.
Describe your research
I am currently engaged in two confidential research projects. Unfortunately, I cannot divulge any details other than to say I work on computational based-method for optimizing concrete compressive strength using data analytics.
What do you enjoy about working with your supervisor and your research group?
Having it that my supervisor researches on multi-disciplinary engineering projects, I enjoy the challenges that comes with the uniqueness in these projects. It has taught me a lot, yet I am astound at what there is still left to be learned.
Can you talk about the importance of the EGSS to your experience at UBC Okanagan?
Being the current President of the Engineering Graduate Student Society (EGSS), the importance of the Society cannot be overemphasized. The EGSS serves to receive complaints and convey students concerns to the School of Engineering. Also, it organizes some academic, social and professional events and services which I have been able to benefit a lot from. It is vital that the graduate students get a feel of how the practicality of Engineering is outside the institution, and EGSS brings this to them via its activities and events. Not just for me, but I believe other engineering students feel the same way about the EGSS.
What do you like to do when you are not in the lab?
There are lots of things I do when not in the lab so as to keep my body and mind in good shape. Some of which are: Meditate, read books on finances, hang out with friends, play basketball and hitting the gym
Are you involved in any extra-curricular activities?
I currently sit at the UBC senate as the Senate representative to graduate studies. Other activities which I am involved in are, volunteering with the community service and learning program “CSL” whenever needed. Also, I play basketball with some student groups and engage in fitness modeling for other leisure time.
As an international student, describe your transition to living in Canada? What has it been like? What sort of support system to you have at the School of Engineering?
First comment: Cold! ?
As an international student, the shift wasn’t as easy as I envisaged. I miss the type of food I have had been used to, a different weather condition. However, I believe that is part of growing. Change!
The School of Engineering in conjunction with the international programs and services “IPS” have been supportive as they first organized orientation sessions for international students and with the course of study come up several events to keep international students feel at ease without much cultural shocks.
Looking ahead 5 or 10 years, where do you see yourself?
I’d like to be seen as someone with deep expertise in engineering and energy sector, and I know As an Engineer with the mind of an Entrepreneur, my goal right now is to engage in activities and studies that will boost my knowledge in Engineering and thereafter find a mentor that will aid me grow and take on new challenges over time. This may be by working somewhere where I’ll have opportunities to develop my skills, take on interesting projects, and work with people I can really learn from.
Most importantly. I PRAY about my future!
Best advice you have received so far at UBC?
Failure is not a red F, it is the “First Attempt in the Learning process”.
Advice you’d give to a student consider UBC Okanagan for their graduate studies?
You think you’ve got what it takes? Then come take what it’s got. Tuum Est!
Just be open minded and accept changes via new ideas.