The Engineering Society at UBC is a non-profit student-run organization that provides social, professional, and academic services as well as representation to all UBC Okanagan engineering students. The Society is made up of a council of representatives from all student years and departments. The Engineering Society provides services and events aimed towards engineering students.
The 2020-21 Executive Team consists of:
Sam Wells, Sam Diab, Edwin Firmansyah, Hisham Khan, Aditya Phalod, Madison Smith, and Manoela Tozzi.
Sam Wells, President
A significant part of what we do though is to develop and build our community through fostering connections between students, hosting social events, and celebrating engineering traditions.
Name: Sam Wells
ENGSOC Title: President
Year: 4th Year
Discipline: Mechanical
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
One of the biggest things that drew me to EngSoc was the sense of community and support I found in it. When I was in my first year, the EngSoc leaders I met were so friendly, welcoming, encouraging, and obviously passionate about working to improve the university experience of engineering students. I attended several conferences in my first year where I learned a lot about EngSoc history, purpose, and culture. I quickly took on a directorship role, and I have been involved with the EngSoc continuously ever since, from Media and Marketing Director to General Officer to Vice President Communications and now President.
How do you envision the role of ENGSOC on the Okanagan campus?
The greatest purpose of the Engineering Society is to serve the needs of the engineering student body. This includes advocating for the needs of engineering students, as well as providing academic and professional support during their time at university. A significant part of what we do though is to develop and build our community through fostering connections between students, hosting social events, and celebrating engineering traditions.
What ENGSOC goals do you have this upcoming year?
My biggest goal for this year is for EngSoc to help give students a sense of community and connection, even when we can’t be together in person. This is even more important for incoming first years, who’ve never experienced the strength of the campus engineering community or university life at all. Helping to form that sense of belonging and spread the passion for engineering and our school will certainly be a challenge, but one I believe we are in a unique position to address. As well, given how different everything will be this year, I want to keep in touch with engineering students’ ongoing challenges. Whether academic, social, or professional, our council will strive to do what we can to address their needs, and advocate to the school on their behalf.
What advice do you have for first year engineering students?
Get involved! There’s a lot of really interesting clubs on campus, both engineering-related and not. I’ve met many of my closest friends through getting involved with clubs. I’ve had a lot of amazing opportunities I never would’ve known existed without getting involved on campus. As well, don’t be afraid to take a reduced courseload! Engineering is a LOT of work, and most people I know don’t graduate in the standard 4 years. A reduced courseload can help a lot with having time for extra-curriculars, as well as for taking care of yourself and your mental health.
What inspires you about engineering?
I love understanding how things work, and engineering provides an amazing opportunity to understand the forces (often literally) behind everyday occurrences and mechanisms. Being able to understand how and why something happens is amazing, and further being able to apply that knowledge in new ways is fascinating.
Why did you choose your discipline?
I chose mechanical engineering because it provides a wide array of options for the future and a diverse base of knowledge. I’ve always been partial to physics courses and very interested in aviation, and mechanical seemed the most relevant to these interests.
What have been your favourite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
My favourite course has probably been ENGR 375 Energy System Design. I found the methods of modelling energy systems to be very interesting and applicable, and Dr. Mina Hoorfar is a fantastic professor who is clearly passionate for the course material and cares greatly for her students. Another one of the best professors I’ve ever had was Dr. Ian Foulds, whose class was always delightful.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a huge literature fan and a sucker for a good story, and if I hadn’t gone into engineering I likely would have pursued an English degree. Whether it’s a video game, a book, a movie, a TV show, or a podcast, I love anything fantasy, horror, and sci-fi.
What does the future hold for you?
After graduating from UBC, I plan to pursue a Master of Engineering degree at the University of Toronto; with an Emphasis in Forensic Engineering. I hope to work in forensic engineering; I’ve always loved examining evidence to solve mysteries and figure out what happened. My dream job is to work as an Incident Investigator with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada. I also hope to live in Ireland for some of my life, and have many pets including cats and a German Shepherd.
Sam Diab, VP External
I saw participating in the Engineering Society as an opportunity to have an impact on my engineering community and that’s what drew me to become active with this organization.
Name: Sam Diab
Title: Vice President External
Year: Second Year
Discipline: Electrical Engineering
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
Throughout high school, I was always passionate about pursuing both community service and leadership opportunities. As a result of this passion, I was fortunate enough to get involved in meaningful opportunities including attending a service trip to the Working Boys’ Center in Quito, Ecuador, getting involved with various clubs including the MicroFinance club, and taking on various leadership positions as part of my school’s Cross Country team. This passion for involvement in my community carried on to university when I eventually became involved with the Engineering Society as a First Year Representative. What drew me specifically to the Engineering Society was the fact that I would be able to advocate for first year students in the engineering program. I’m the type of person that genuinely enjoys serving others, and I take pleasure when I know I had a tangible impact on the lives of others. I definitely saw the Engineering Society as an opportunity to have an impact on my engineering community and that’s what drew me to become active with this organization.
How do you envision the role of ENGSOC on the Okanagan campus?
Being part of the EngSoc necessitates being both an active listener as well as being observant at all times when it comes to engineering students’ needs. Our operations typically start off with identifying a need/issue that is directly affecting the engineering students on our campus. Following this step, we
either bring up these concerns during our monthly meetings or in more informal settings. Afterwards, we devise a plan of action to address the issue under discussion either through preparing an event for engineering students, advocating to the faculty, or providing a new service via our EngSoc. Over time,
I envision an EngSoc where we meet all engineering student needs and are able to attain full participation at our events from our student body.
What ENGSOC goals do you have this upcoming year?
As the Vice President External of the EngSoc, my primary task will be to represent the Engineering Society with our regional and national partners — EGBC, The CFES, and WESST. In a typical year, this involves travelling to various conferences across Canada and attending General Assemblies where the VP External votes on various motions and mandates that affect Canadian engineering students across Canada. Given the current global pandemic, conferences and competitions will be held via digital means this upcoming academic year. Due to this, I won’t be able to travel to in person conferences but the advocacy efforts definitely do not stop. Motions and mandates will still be brought up, and it will be my responsibility to ensure that I am caught up on all of the latest documents and voting in a way that ensures our students are properly represented. In addition, I hope that we as an EngSoc team, can fulfill our goals this year, which are to ensure that engineering students on our campus are heard and receive the services they deserve. Along with the faculty, the EngSoc has been able to set up an EngSoc resources where we’ll be able to more readily connect with students and ensure that they are satisfied with EngSoc and the services we provide.
What advice do you have for first year engineering students?
When I first stepped foot on campus, I did not know anyone whatsoever. In a way this was somewhat daunting, but I relished the idea of the unknown. I decided to take it upon me to interact with as many people as possible and be open to new ideas and ways of thinking. As a result of this, I was able to
make a lot of new and interesting friends and it was a great experience. With this upcoming term being online, it does not mean you can’t get involved and make new friends. As a first year student going into engineering, I recommend that you join clubs that you have a genuine interest in, (safely) socialize with as many students as possible, and be engaged in your community. Obviously, all of this will have to be done online for the upcoming term but it does not mean your overall university experience will be jeopardized. Just ensure that you are proactive, engaged with your community, and having a good time! You will still be able to make plenty of friends and reach your academic goals!
What inspires you about engineering?
Since a young age, I have always been fascinated by engineering. What makes engineering unique is the fact that the opportunities are endless within the field. All around us, we can find engineering applications that have a direct and tangible impact on our day to day lives. From the development of prosthetics, to the development of AI, to the development of green buildings, engineers are at the forefront of cutting edge technology, and have a direct impact on how society develops/looks like in the future. Being an engineer comes with a great responsibility, because we as engineers are responsible for ensuring that life is sustainable for future generations to come and that the technology we are developing serves a tangible and useful purpose. Engineers have an immeasurable impact on others and that’s something that inspires me.
Why did you choose your discipline?
The primary reason I chose to go into electrical engineering is because of the wide ranging applications within this specific field of engineering. Technology is growing at a rapid pace and as a result of that, electrical engineers are becoming increasingly essential components of the workforce. Electrical Engineers are responsible for ensuring the successful implementation of new technologies in different industries such as transportation, construction, healthcare, and robotics just to name a few. In the future, these processes will be of the essence for the survival/well being of the human race. It excites me to be part of this crucial discipline where I am able to share my expertise.
What have been your favourite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
Thus far, my two favourite courses have been Electricity, Magnetism, and Waves (EMAG) with Dr. Markley as well as Engineering Drawing with Dr. Taheri. Regarding EMAG, I really found the course content interesting and applicable. I found it genuinely inspiring to learn in detail how insulators, conductors, and other electrical systems function in our day to day lives. I also enjoyed Dr. Markley’s style of teaching and found him to be quite pragmatic and logical which I appreciated. Engineering Drawing was another course I thoroughly enjoyed. Despite not being inspired by the drawing aspect of the course, I really reveled at the idea of project work. I really enjoy working with a team, and my team even managed to get second place overall in the 3D design project. What made the course even more exciting was the fact that Dr. Taheri taught it. Dr. Taheri is the most lively professor I have ever had. His energy and passion for engineering is unparalleled and is truly inspiring.
What is a fun fact about you?
When it comes to fun facts, the first thing that comes to my mind is the fact that I’m extremely passionate about long distance running. I enjoy running in challenging terrains that include hills, uneven surfaces, and other features that make the run itself more difficult. One noteworthy run that I completed was a 13 kilometres jog in -40 degree weather in Montreal. Not only was it extremely frigid outside at the time, but the visibility outside was minimal because it was snowing intensely. Nevertheless, I decided to carry on with the run and I never regretted that decision. Despite the various physical discomforts, I felt at various points in the run, I felt immersed in nature all throughout the run and it was a very fulfilling experience.
What does the future hold for you?
In terms of my time at UBC, I hope to continue to get further involved with the EngSoc and potentially with WESST (Western Engineering Student Societies’ Team) and the CFES (Canadian Federation of Engineering Students). I also hope to start my own club at some point during my university career, probably something related to community service, because that’s something I’m particularly passionate about. On the academic side, I’m still deciding whether I want to add any options (biomedical or mechatronics) and/or minors to my degree (computer science) but hope to come to a decision by the end of next school year. In terms of life after my undergrad, I’m still considering what I want to specifically do but some pathways I have considered have been starting my own business/company, going to law school (specializing in engineering patents), working at an engineering firm, or taking a year or two off to bike across Europe and Asia or Central and South America. I definitely have a lot of passions/interests in life and will just have to wait and see how the cards play out.
Edwin Firmansyah, VP Finance
As a course union, and as a team of engineers, the ways in which we address academic, professional and social needs must continue to innovate, especially during a pandemic.
Name: Edwin Firmansyah
ENGSOC Title: Vice President Finance
Year: 2
Discipline: Electrical
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
As Head Boy of my high school, one of my responsibilities included managing our finances. It was one of my favourite tasks because it helped develop a holistic perspective of our Student Council and the needs of students. Now as VP Finance, I want to better understand how the Engineering Society operates and advocate appropriate allocation of our finances for student-initiatives, workshops and complimentary services for a meaningful engineering experience.
How do you envision the role of ENGSOC on the Okanagan campus?
As a course union, and as a team of engineers, the ways in which we address academic, professional and social needs must continue to innovate, especially during a pandemic. We are here to listen, serve and foster each others’ growth.
What ENGSOC goals do you have this upcoming year?
A few of us have exciting plans for the upcoming year we have yet to disclose as they are still in the works. But one thing I can say is that I am endeavouring to find short-term and long-term solutions to make our events, and merchandise, more accessible alongside the Council to help build community spirit.
What advice do you have for first-year engineering students?
Everyone has different expectations of how they want to perform in their first year. Things may or may not go as planned. But, as long as you prioritize on what you think will make you better than you were yesterday, you’ll establish a strong foundation for the years to come.
What inspires you about engineering?
At its core, engineering is the study of addressing human needs through applied science. Engineers have the responsibility of developing the physical and digital infrastructure for future generations to come. I feel it’s such a purposeful field.
Why did you choose your discipline?
Electrical engineering is at the forefront of technologies that are revolutionizing the playing field. I am particularly interested in how control systems and telecommunications will be used to advance automation, networking and even the transition to cleaner energy!
What have been your favourite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
APSC 178 – Electricity, Magnetism and Waves is a challenging, yet rewarding course. It will be the first time many students will use vector calculus to understand and predict the behaviour of electromagnetic phenomena; it is astonishing.
What is a fun fact about you?
The only brownies I will eat are the ‘two-bite Brownies’ brownies.
What does the future hold for you?
Since UBCO has decided to transition to online schooling, I decided to return to my home country Indonesia for the time being. I hope to be able to catch up with some of my friends whom I have not seen for over 10 months whilst keeping social distancing in mind.
Hisham Khan, VP Corporate Relations
I envision the role of ENGSOC to be a powerful society reaching out, helping, and supporting its members the best way it can
Name : Hisham Khan
ENGSOC Title: Vice President of Corporate Relations
Year: 2
Discipline: Mechanical
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
I was drawn to the Engineering Society because I was a passionate member of my high school’s student government and I am passionate towards helping engineering students the best way I can with the resources I have.
How do you envision the role of ENGSOC on the Okanagan campus?
I envision the role of ENGSOC to be a powerful society reaching out, helping, and supporting its members the best way it can. A real deciding figure in the university landscape
What ENGSOC goals do you have this upcoming year?
As the Vice President of Corporate Relations, one of my goals is to help students with their career futures. That is what I plan on doing this year by helping students understand industry demands by hosting events in regards to it through p-week, and as well as how to start your own business as an entrepreneur.
What advice do you have for first year engineering students?
My advice to first year engineering students is to take a break when it seems like its too much. Don’t overwork yourself and stay on top of your assignments. Don’t leave it for the night before!
What inspires you about engineering?
I enjoy the creation and the idea processing of engineering. Knowing that you can improve almost anything and create marvelous things that can change people’s lives.
Why did you choose your discipline?
I choose my discipline because mechanical encompasses nearly every field, and deals with many sub-fields giving a good background on nearly everything. I plan on pursuing the biomedical option as I love working and reading about medical tech and it has always fascinated me. The end goal from an educational standpoint is to be a Biomedical Engineer at a Masters level with a Mech undergrad degree.
What have been your favourite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
My favorite instructor is Professor Mehran Shirazi and my favorite course so far has been Linear Algebra.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a huge productivity nerd
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully, to become an engineer and run my own businesses to build something substantial.
Aditya Phalod, VP Communications
There are tons of opportunities on campus provided by the EngSoc, SUO, UBC and all sorts of different clubs.
Name: Aditya Ajay Phalod
ENGSOC Title: Vice-President Communications
Year: 2
Discipline: Electrical Engineering
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
During Jumpstart and Create (prior to first year), I heard a lot about the EngSoc and what they have to offer to our fellow engineering students. When Sam Diab (current VPX) was elected as the first–year rep, he used to talk about some of his duties and jobs. I found that interesting. Not to mention, EngSoc events and competitions were really fun and informative. That was when I made-up my mind to be a part of it!
How do you envision the role of ENGSOC on the Okanagan campus?
The Engineering Society at UBC has played a crucial role in engineering student’s education as they enabled them to experience university on a broader spectrum; beyond textbooks and parties. For instance, earlier this year (February 2020), I attended the Conference on Sustainability at the University of Waterloo organized by CFES, and I am grateful to our benevolent EngSoc for giving me this opportunity. Also, events like ‘Resume Roast’, P-week, etc. are great ways to get further involved in engineering as well as learn other necessary things which students tend to miss.
What ENGSOC goals do you have this upcoming year?
Firstly, I thank ex- VP Comms and current President Samantha Wells for guiding me and helping me to do a better job. In my service as VP Comms, I am committed to achieving a couple of goals. First, I wish to spread the word further so that all engineering students learn more about us and have an opportunity to get involved. I plan on achieving this by using Facebook, Instagram and our website. Secondly, I plan on launching an EngSoc snapchat, considering the fact that it is more used by students of our age group. There is a lot of work to be done, and I am excited to get started!
What advice do you have for first year engineering students?
I am not going to fill this section by saying they should study hard, get good grades and all. That’s a requirement. University is not a joke. However, one lesson which I learnt and would like to share to our incoming freshmen students is to keep their eyes and ears open. There are tons of opportunities on campus provided by the SUO, UBC and all sorts of different clubs. These can easily be found by making the right contacts, checking out the posters, following the right pages on social media, etc. Not only are these events fun but also look good on their resumes and can be an asset in self-development. That’s basically how I was introduced to EngSoc!
What inspires you about engineering?
Engineering is a broad field and I am sure every single one of us have their own source of inspiration. For me, it’s problem-solving. Everything is achievable through technology – better living, robust health, even world peace! With limitless applications, a team of ethical engineers is capable of eradicating many problems which we face today.
Why did you choose your discipline?
Electrical engineering has always intrigued me. From a career’s perspective, I chose this field because it lays the foundation for specializing in upcoming programs like mechatronics, robotics, IoT, etc. I am also doing a Minor in Computer Science. With the world moving towards automation, the integration of CS with electrical engineering is one of the areas which will be in demand.
What have been your favorite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
APSC 171 (Engineering Drawing and Designing) has really been an interesting ride for me, mainly because of Dr. Ray Taheri. In my experience at UBC (well, 2019W Term), I am a huge fan of Dr. Taheri because of his exceptional methods of teaching. His practical approach towards education makes APSC171 fun. LFor instance, he used to play videos on practical and real-life applications of Solidworks which inspired us to work hard on our projects.
What is a fun fact about you?
I think it’s not overstating to say that I bleed Marvel. I am a huge Marvel fan. Iron Man 3 hit the big screens when I was like thirteen and I was hooked. Now that I think about it, Tony Stark was actually one of my inspirations to steer my life towards engineering.
What does the future hold for you?
Honestly, my philosophy is a simple quote I was taught in school – “yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a ‘present’ given to us, which we should live to the fullest.” As mentioned earlier, technology holds limitless applications. That being said, my primary goal is to get the best out of it for the needy, either by working in a corporation or by doing a little something on my own, whatever form that takes I’m game!
Madison Smith, VP Student Life
Engineering is a stressful degree program and ENG SOC provides the additional support engineering students need throughout their studies.
Name: Madison Smith
ENGSOC Title: Vice President Student Life
Year: Second year
Discipline: Mechanical Engineering
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
My interest in the Engineering Society began when the first-year representatives informed me of the Canadian Engineering Leadership Conference (CELC). I decided to apply for one of the delegate positions and ended up participating in the conference. I spent 6 days with multiple members of the engineering society at UBC Okanagan and learned the role the engineering society plays in a student’s undergraduate experience. It also exposed me to students from engineering societies across the country which was an amazing opportunity. The conference motivated me to become involved in more than just the academic aspect of engineering. The VP of Student Life position particularly intrigued me because I enjoy planning social events. This is why I decided to run for the position.
How do you envision the role of ENGSOC on the Okanagan campus?
I believe the main role of ENG SOC is to advocate for students. Engineering is a stressful degree program and ENG SOC provides the additional support engineering students need throughout their studies. ENG SOC connects students to each other through social events. The society also hosts events to aid students in their professional development to prepare them for the workforce. ENG SOC is a bridge between the students and the faculty to ensure teachers and students are always in communication with each other. ENG SOC strives to constantly improve the quality of the engineering undergraduate experience.
What ENGSOC goals do you have this upcoming year?
My main goal for the upcoming year is to ensure the engineering students can connect with each other through online social events. I hope to host a diverse range of events that will allow students to relax and have fun. The engineering society will be launching a canvas page that will allow easy communications to students.
What advice do you have for first-year engineering students?
I want new students to know that the Engineering Society is here to help and advocate for you. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. I would prepare yourself to see a drop in your grades. The average in these courses is lower than you would have seen in high school. I would recommend comparing your grades to the class average to see where you actually sit. I would recommend making group chats with other students in your classes. These group chats really helped me stay connected with my peers!
What inspires you about engineering?
The most inspiring aspect of engineering is the ability to apply the knowledge and problem-solving abilities you learn in university to nearly any field imaginable. Through devising new approaches, new ideas, and new projects to push the limits of innovation, engineering is a profession that allows engineers to make significant impacts on the world during their careers. The career path of an engineer is not simple, often an engineer will work on a diverse combination of projects.
Why did you choose your discipline?
I chose mechanical engineering because I am interested in working in aerospace or medical fields, and this discipline will allow me to pursue either. I am also going to complete the Biomed option and a computer science minor.
What have been your favorite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
My favorite courses have been the design-based courses: APSC 171 and APSC 169. I enjoyed these courses because we were given problems that we needed to solve, and got to produce actual prototypes. These projects allowed us to be innovative, and think outside the box. In the future, most engineering projects are done by groups of engineers. These group design projects taught me how to work efficiently in a group and how to overcome conflicts in a professional manner.
What is a fun fact about you?
Fun facts about me are that I grew up on a small island called Salt Spring Island, off the coast of Vancouver, and surfing the west coast is my favorite hobby!
What does the future hold for you?
I am going into my second year of engineering and plan to be at UBC Okanagan for another five years. Many things about me may change as I gain more life experiences and I get closer to my graduation. Currently, I hope that I will be working on developing new medical technologies for astronauts to progress space travel. I would love to become an astronaut myself if the opportunity should arise.
Manoela Tozzi, VP Internal
Every year, the diversity and open mindedness of the EngSoc draws me to run for a position.
Name: Manoela Tozzi
Title: Vice-President Internal
Year: Third Year Standing
Discipline: Electrical Engineering (Computer Science Minor)
What drew you to being active with the Engineering Society?
In my first year orientation I had the opportunity of meeting two inspiring Engineering Society Executives that motivated me to run for the position of First Year Representative. Ever since, I have been in Council for every year of University. The First Year Representative position prepared me for the position of VP Corporate Relations, and I am now VP Internal.
Every year, the diversity and open mindedness of the Council draws me to run for a position. At the same time, I find that many positions of the EngSoc don’t have a wide range of interest, and by being in the Council I can, every year, draw awareness to the importance of being active in student leadership.
How do you envision the role of EngSoc on the Okanagan campus?
In my opinion the role of the EngSoc is comparable to a backstage of a theatre. What I mean by this statement is that, sometimes, the efforts of the Council might go unnoticed for the student body as a whole, which is good since it means we’ve made sure that matters on campus are running smoothly.
In the role of VP Internal I have the privilege of attending the SoE´s Faculty council meetings to provide student input, this effort, though not widely recognized, often has a positive impact on the outcome of course scheduling, faculty hiring and other matters I am often asked for my opinion on. I also try my best to provide a bridge between external/internal matters and the students by learning from the work of others in the council and faculty efforts so that I am able to share this knowledge with the student body.
Another good example of backstage efforts of the Society is our fiscal responsibilities. Having a large budget might be hard to manage but the role of VP Finance, alongside other members of the Council, have been able to focus the majority of the assets, physical and monetary, towards funding of student initiatives. In the past the EngSoc has funded over 10 clubs a year and provided means for them to store goods and hold meetings, when appropriate. We have also been able to provide funds for students that want to pursue individual initiatives and attend conferences worldwide.
Another important role of the Society is to represent students. The Council not only brings together a diverse and well-opinionated group of students, but each one has the role of representing the personality of all students in the body. To ensure equality and remove bias, all members of the Council have an equally weighted vote on any motion proposed by a Society member. Furthermore, any meetings, discussions or documentation drafted by the Society that is considered non-confidential is publicly available and can be viewed/accessed by any member of the society upon request. This way, we can ensure transparency, something I believe all students appreciate, and that helps the society learn and grow every year.
What EngSoc goals do you have this upcoming year?
My primary goal this year is to ensure that students feel comfortable to reach out to society and run for positions. With the current situation, students might have a hard time finding the means to reach out to the society. My goal is to be available as much as I can and work with the council to provide an online platform that we wish we would’ve had if our first year was online. Also being attentive and working with the faculty as much as I can.
Another goal I have is to brainstorm ideas on how to wisely use our budget for this year on matters that would benefit the student body, since all EngSoc large budget events are canceled for this year.
What advice do you have for first year engineering students?
My first advice to a first year student would be: sign up for the Peer Mentorship Program held by the Student Leadership Office. Why? Well simply because there are a lot of facts and issues that upper years students are knowledgeable about that can be passed on through this amazing program. This program not only alleviates the demand for Advising Offices, but also helps students clarify questions that they would not have if they were attending in-person lectures, questions that would be resolved through experience and peer-to-peer acquaintanceship.
My second advice would be: Attend your Jump Start and Orientation sessions. If you are a very engaged student that has done your research, you might think these sessions won’t be informative for me. Even if this is the case, one should consider attending to get familiar with your peers and advisors, they are amazing people and are available to help with issues that go beyond the scope of the session they hold.
My third advice is: Form a study group as soon as possible. The people in your study group don’t need to be your best friends, but people that are taking the same courses as you and that will often understand your academic experiences more seriously.
And most of all just enjoy your time.
What inspires you about engineering?
Engineering inspires me because there is an endless amount of knowledge you can acquire. Engineering is a career for people that are lively and outgoing and have initiative, but it is also a career for people that are quiet, reserved and appreciative of rules. Within the wide spectrum of branches of engineering one can meet people that have all possible personalities, there isn’t one type of engineer. The inspiration to become an engineer comes from the struggles and successes from people with amazing problem solving skills, that have the drive to think outside the box and engage in continuous learning.
Why did you choose your discipline?
I chose Electrical Engineering mainly because I would like to have a strong theoretical base for a Master or Doctorate on Carbon Engineering Technology and Implementation. I soon discovered that I also have interest in Computer Science since I believe programming skills go hand in hand with the engineering problem solving mindset. With my current degree I will have acquire the skills to follow any path I want in my future.
One important fact to consider is that most engineering projects require joint efforts of different engineering branches, so I believe any of the fundamental branches such as Electrical, Manufacturing, Mechanical and Civil are all of equal importance.
What have been your favourite courses/instructors thus far? Describe why?
My favourite course was System Dynamics in my second year, since I found myself constantly interested in what the course had to offer, and felt that all exercises required all of my attention to get done. As for my favourite instructors, I might have a different perspective than most students, since I have seen my instructors wear multiple hats throughout my years. My honourable mentions go to:
Dr. Dean Richert, for being eager to learn and improve his teaching methods constantly, and achieving rewarding administrative positions early in his academic career. A professor with an open door policy that is always supporting students in any way he can.
Dr. Yang Cao, for having a very consistent teaching methodology and endless study resources. The first professor that did not raise ambiguity amongst students about being a good teacher. His efforts do not go unnoticed as he teaches multiple upper level courses while having continuous involvement in the SoE’s Council and Committees.
Dr. Laura Patterson, for being inclusive of students’ needs, holding interesting and engaging lectures. She also has a large engagement with the faculty and is very respected. I can confidently say that this instructor had the best online transition of all second year courses.
And finally, although I did not have Jannik Eikenaar, his involvement with the Engineering Society is very much appreciated, since he is trained in Diversity and Inclusion and provides valuable input in student matters.
What is a fun fact about you?
A fun fact about me: I am from São Paulo, Brazil, but I am a high school graduate from Selkirk, Manitoba, where I graduated at 16 years old.
What does the future hold for you?
Right now I feel that the future is very uncertain for many people in the world. One thing I know for sure is I am constantly going to engage in studies and learning.