Are you passionate about story-telling? Do you have a good pulse on the engineering student community? Do you want to learn new skills, build your professional network and have fun doing it, all while getting paid?
APPLY NOW for one of the two Work Study positions with the School of Engineering:
Student Communications Specialist – Open to engineering students
Web Content & Design Specialist – Open to students in ANY program
November 12 at 11:59pm PST.
The Green Construction Research & Training Center (GCRTC) Seminar Series presents:
Rethinking the Seismic Design of Steel Moment Resisting Frames
Featuring: Dr. Dimitrios Lignos, PEng
Professor & Department Chair, Civil Engineering Institute (IIC)
Director, Resilient Steel Structures Laboratory, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM PDT
Location: Online
Join the Seminar
Meeting ID: 624 3663 8788
Passcode: 577545
Join us for an enlightening seminar as Dr. Dimitrios Lignos, a leading expert in civil engineering, presents innovative insights on the seismic design of steel moment-resisting frames (MRFs). This session will explore groundbreaking approaches to enhance the resilience of structures in seismic regions.
Steel moment-resisting frames (MRFs) are critical for seismic safety, yet existing design rules often lead to inelastic local buckling, resulting in costly repairs and structural damage after earthquakes. Dr. Lignos will introduce a new design philosophy that challenges conventional methods, proposing alternative dissipative mechanisms to reduce earthquake-induced damage while maintaining design simplicity. The seminar will highlight a decade’s worth of research leveraging advanced materials, innovative modeling techniques, and full-scale experiments, all within the framework of performance-based earthquake engineering.
Dr. Dimitrios Lignos is a Full Professor and the Chair of the Civil Engineering Institute at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). With a robust background in structural engineering, Dr. Lignos has contributed significantly to the field through advanced modeling and multi-scale experimentation. His research has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the 2022 Raymond Reese Research Prize and the 2019 Walter L. Huber Civil Engineering Research Prize from the American Society of Civil Engineers. An influential figure in seismic design, he has also played a vital role in revising European and American seismic codes.
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and engage with a leading expert in seismic engineering.
The Green Construction Research & Training Center (GCRTC) is multi-disciplinary research and training hub, which is the results of collaboration between the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Okanagan College (OC). The center enables a multitude of disciplines to work in a symbiotic manner to enrich and broaden all disciplines’ capabilities towards greener construction. Learn more at https://gcrtc.ubc.ca/.
UBC Engineering students, take note: Are you interested in learning more about the Go Global program and enrolling in a new UBC Engineering course to be held in China summer 2025?
Join an info session on Tuesday, October 29 at 5pm, for more information on this exciting course taught by UBC Okanagan School of Engineering Professor of Teaching Dr. Ray Taheri.
“This Global Seminar offers students academic excellence and a unique opportunity to engage with the global impact of engineering challenges while building meaningful connections in one of the world’s most historically significant cities,” says Dr. Taheri.
“Beyond the academic components, students will have the opportunity to explore Xi’an’s dynamic culture, rich history, and unique culinary offerings. The city’s diverse food scene, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural heritage make it one of the most desirable locations in China. Often referred to as the “Blue Diamond of China,” Xi’an offers breathtaking scenery, ancient architecture, and a unique blend of tradition and modernity, providing an unforgettable backdrop for personal and professional growth.”
About the course
The Global Seminar provides an exceptional blend of academic rigour and extracurricular enrichment, allowing students to develop a distinctive international experience. This program goes beyond conventional classroom learning, immersing participants in a vibrant cultural setting while focusing on a critical engineering discipline—corrosion engineering.
The featured course, Corrosion Engineering and Prevention Methods is designed for 3rd- and 4th-year engineering students and is widely taught as a core and technical elective across leading engineering programs in North America.
With corrosion-related damage costing over $2 trillion annually—equivalent to 3.4% of global GDP— this course addresses a crucial challenge facing multiple engineering sectors. Students will understand corrosion mechanisms, prevention strategies, and mitigation techniques applicable to industries such as infrastructure, oil and gas, transportation, and manufacturing.
The seminar takes place in Xi’an, China, the historic capital of Shaanxi Province and the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road. Xi’an’s deep historical significance stems from its role as the political and cultural hub of several prominent dynasties, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang. Today, it remains a top destination for domestic and international travelers, drawing millions of tourists annually to its renowned attractions, including the Terracotta Army, City Wall, and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
Sign up for the info session on Oct. 29
The virtual info session will cover all topics related to the course, including how to apply, how students are selected, the cost breakdown, the coursework, assignments, and life in Xi’an, China.
This session will be recorded and posted here for those that cannot attend. Sign up to receive the Zoom link.
Learn more at https://students.ok.ubc.ca/global-engagement-office/go-global/outbound-short-term-programs/global-seminars/china/.
Engineering students at UBC Okanagan will gather on Sunday, Oct. 20 to put their creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test at the 2024 Okanagan Engineering Competition.
Hosted by the Engineering Society at UBCO, the competition brings students together to showcase their design thinking and technical skills in a fast-paced competition environment with limited time and resources.
Engineering, Management and Education Building (EME), UBC Okanagan Campus, 1137 Alumni Ave., Kelowna, BC
Competitors, please arrive between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM for check-in. It’s important to be punctual as this will allow organizers to start the competition on time. If your team is late, you will have 30 minutes from the competition start time (until 10:00 AM) to check-in. Teams failing to check in by this time will be disqualified.
The event is open to the public and media.
How can we build more resilient communities in the face of climate change? What will the next leaps in solar or battery technology look like? What are the career paths for computer engineers in the age of AI? What are the job prospects like for engineers in Canada and globally?
The University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO) campus invites prospective students and their families to the UBC Engineering Open House on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 10am – 2pm. This event is a unique opportunity to explore the innovative world of engineering and discover the diverse programs offered at UBC.
The UBC Engineering Open House is free and open to all. Pre-registration is required.
Attendees can expect an engaging day filled with interactive displays, hands-on activities, and informative sessions. They will also have the chance to meet faculty and current students, providing insights into the dynamic field of engineering.
Highlights of the event include:
“We are thrilled to welcome future engineers to our campus,” said Marie Reid, Engineering Advisor for the School of Engineering. “This open house provides a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with faculty and current students, see the world-class labs and learning spaces within the School and envision their future in engineering.”
The School of Engineering at UBCO offers five undergraduate programs – civil, computer, electrical, manufacturing and mechanical.
Computer engineering, which blends the disciplines of electrical engineering and computer science, launched this September and offers an exciting – and in-demand – new pathway for students as the advancement of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, security and other fields increasingly require engineers who are highly skilled in both hardware and software.
The 2023 BC Labour Market Outlook reported that 116,900 jobs will need to be filled in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) occupations by 2033 in BC alone.
“The world needs engineers more than ever, and we believe that engineering is for everyone,” said Dr. Will Hughes, Director of the School of Engineering. “We hope prospective students will come away from this event inspired and informed about everything from programs to research opportunities, co-op to career paths.”
Adds Hughes: “If you’re wondering if engineering is right for you, and if you are right for engineering, we want you to know – you belong here.”
The UBC Build Better Cluster and UBC Okanagan School of Engineering welcomes visiting scholar Dr. Ken Elwood on October 21.
Dr. Elwood will deliver a talk “From Ductility to Repairability: Evolution of Building Design in the Wake of the Christchurch Earthquake” on Monday, Oct. 21, from noon – 1:30pm.
Dr. Elwood is a professor at the University of Auckland, New Zealand and Chief Engineer, New Zealand government.
Pre-registration is not required. The talk is free and open to all.
Join via Zoom:
Attendees can join via Zoom: https://ubc.zoom.us/s/6206024162
Abstract:
New Zealand and many other countries around the world adopted ductility-based design concepts in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The adoption of these design concepts are likely the single most important advancement in our design philosophy in terms of protecting life safety in future earthquakes. Ductility, however, cannot be achieved without damage to the structure and its contents. Recent earthquakes have openly challenged the engineering community as to whether our focus on ductility has delivered what society intrinsically expects from its buildings during and after strong earthquakes. Recognizing that building design is best driven by observations from real earthquakes, we will use the 2011 Christchurch Earthquake as a case study to explore if it is time for another fundamental shift in our approach to building design; from ductility to repairability.
How we design and construct buildings will clearly influence building performance in future earthquakes, which will in turn influence outcomes for occupants (injuries and deaths), as well as for the buildings themselves (demolition, repairs, abandonment). But it is the economic, environmental and social impacts resulting (in part) from these human and building outcomes which leave a lasting impression on our communities. Managing these impacts from future earthquakes should be the driver behind future changes to how we design buildings. Eleven years after the Christchurch earthquake we are now in a better position to appreciate such impacts including business losses, insurance costs and delays, environmental impacts, urban blight, and wellbeing. We will review some of these impacts and reconsider if our building design targets are suitable for managing these impacts in future earthquakes. We argue a need to change our focus from just life-safety to serviceability in frequent earthquakes and repairability in design level ground motions. Component deformation limits for concrete buildings which enable structural repair without loss of structural safety will be discussed and the repairability of current structural designs will be assessed.
Sarin Pokhrel (centre) with Kasun Hewage (left) and Rehan Sadiq (right) at Convocation.
Meet Dr. Sarin Raj Pokhrel, UBC Okanagan School of Engineering alumnus (Master of Applied Science (MASc, 2019), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, 2023), Civil Engineering.
Sarin currently works for the Government of Alberta with the Environment and Protected Areas as a Transboundary Water Quantity Specialist – Engineer 2. Read more about his UBC Engineering alumni journey and advice for current and incoming students below!
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am Sarin Pokhrel. I have over seven years of experience working in the water resource engineering sector, wearing different hats as a researcher, consultant, and now a responsible government employee. I enjoy exploring new hiking trails and taking long walks with my wife by the lake or river, always seeking places close to nature.
What drew you to UBC Okanagan and the School of Engineering?
My journey to UBC Okanagan (UBCO) began long before I even knew it would lead me there. It all started with my uncle, a municipal engineer, who would often share stories about his work and his experiences in graduate school in Canada. When I was in Grade 4, he handed me a $20 bill (which I still have) and said, “Take this with you when you come to Canada.” That moment planted the seed of a 9-year-old Nepali boy to fulfill his Canadian dream.
Family encouragement helped inspire Sarin’s childhood dream.
As I grew older, I developed a deep interest in engineering, and when it came time to look at graduate schools, UBC was at the top of my list. Not only is UBC consistently ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide, but its School of Engineering is also among the top 3 in Canada. The combination of its global reputation, the beautiful Okanagan setting, and the chance to study under world-renowned faculty made UBC my first choice.
In 2017, I began my master’s program and was fortunate to work under the supervision of Dr. Rehan Sadiq. I also earned my PhD in 2023 under his guidance. Even today, I receive constant suggestions and feedback from him to enhance my professional growth.
Beyond his research excellence, Dr. Sadiq is a remarkable mentor and kind human being. I still remember him telling me, “The sky is the limit.” His words continue to inspire me to push boundaries and contribute meaningfully to the community. Overall, Dr. Sadiq and School of Engineering have played a significant role in shaping who I am today.
What are some of your fondest memories of / most rewarding experiences from your time at UBCO?
One of my earliest memories was the routine that became a big part of my life: catching the 6:30 am bus to campus and returning home on the 10:19 pm bus. My friends joked that I practically lived on campus—and it felt like I did.
What made the experience truly unforgettable was the people.
I was lucky to be part of an incredible research group and the support, camaraderie, and laughter we shared made even the toughest days enjoyable.
Sarin Pokhrel and friends on campus.
Outside of my research, I also built lasting relationships with people across the university—the School of Engineering (SOE) staff, staff at the Disability Resource Centre where I worked as an invigilator, and the amazing team at the Provost office, where I worked as a Learning Designer.
Leading the Nepalese Scholars’ Association was another highlight. Organizing cultural events on campus and connecting with the Nepalese community across the Okanagan helped me stay rooted in my heritage.
UBCO felt like a family to me. It wasn’t just the work—it was the genuine kindness and care from so many in the community.
When my wife first arrived in Canada in 2022, I still remember how members from the UBCO family, including Shannon Hohl, Cindy Bourne, and colleagues helped me set up our new apartment. Moments like that made me feel not just like a student, but part of something much bigger—a community that truly looked out for each other.
I can’t forget to mention Tracy and her family, who became my “Canadian family” during my five years living with them before my wedding. They embraced me as their own, calling me their “Nepalese son,” which made my time in the Okanagan feel even more like home. Their warmth and kindness made my UBCO journey not only smoother but also more memorable and fun.
How did your time at UBC prepare you for your future?
My time at UBC prepared me for the future in so many ways, and I can break it down into four key areas.
First, collaboration. During my PhD research, I had the chance to work with over nine municipalities across the Okanagan Valley, involving engineers, managers, and operators to assess and benchmark their water systems performance. This experience taught me how to build strong relationships with people outside of my immediate research group, and more importantly, how to communicate effectively with diverse audiences. Leading stakeholder workshops pushed me to articulate complex ideas in a way that everyone could understand.
Second, leadership. As a Learning Designer, one of my primary roles was to help build a TA credential program, organize workshops, assist faculty in creating more engaging syllabi, and suggest student-centered assessment methods. I also took part in cross-campus initiatives like the Academic Integrity Working Group. These roles helped me develop my leadership skills by taking on challenges that were both new and impactful.
Third, mentoring. Being a TA was one of my favorite parts of the UBC experience. I loved helping students with their coursework, from first-year undergraduates to graduate students. I was fortunate to serve as a lead TA for many courses, and working closely with faculty gave me insights into the academic process while allowing me to support students on their learning journeys. This has helped me to guide new aspiring engineers and prospective graduate students.
Lastly, patience. This might be the most important lesson I learned. For example, I remember the disappointment of having my first two journal articles rejected on the same day during my master’s program. It was a tough moment, but I kept pushing forward, and through perseverance, I eventually published eight papers during my six years at UBC (Note: I am using this just an example but not a metric to evaluate one’s graduate academic journey). This experience taught me the value of hard work and resilience, which continues to help me tackle challenges in my career today.
What are you up to today? What is your current role? Tell us a little about your career path and how you got to where you are today.
I am working at the Government of Alberta with the Environment and Protected Areas as a Transboundary Water Quantity Specialist – Engineer 2. My work involves a blend of technical expertise, engineering judgement, and stakeholder collaboration. I am involved in developing a range of models, from simple statistical ones to advanced machine learning and hydrological models. These models evaluate, predict, and compare natural water flows within transboundary basins, involving collaboration across different departments within my branch.
The transboundary nature of this work means I get to build relationships and communicate engineering results to both technical and non-technical audiences across the province and the US, which is a part of the role I really enjoy. I also manage projects by updating trackers to maintain scope, ensuring timely completion of tasks, and preparing technical memorandums to document progress and findings.
A particularly rewarding aspect of my job is the direct impact my work has on people. For example, I am currently working on a predictive model that forecasts water availability in a river basin for a small town, which will help authorities plan necessary interventions in case of low flows. This kind of work has lasting implications for the community, ensuring a reliable water supply to support essential services and irrigation practices.
My career path has not been a straight line—like most of us, I have had to navigate twists and turns. But staying focused, building strong connections, and maintaining the right attitude has been key to my progress.
I have learned to identify what works and what does not. When something does not align with my passion and when I am not contributing much, I do not hesitate to explore new opportunities, and every time I have made a change, the new experience has been more rewarding than the last. Having clarity and surrounding myself with the right people has been crucial in shaping my journey to where I am today.
What are your goals?
My goals have taken on a deeper meaning, especially after the untimely loss of my mother at just 53. She worked tirelessly for our family, always wanting me to excel in my career while emphasizing the importance of being a good human being. Her unwavering support drives me to strive for continuous improvement even despite her physical absence—my biggest goal is to be a better version of myself today than I was yesterday and make my family happy and proud.
As an engineer, I want to contribute more towards community-driven and people-focused decisions that provide equitable and affordable services to the global community. It is crucial to communicate the real issues surrounding water resources, especially the misconception that Canada has unlimited water, which is still prevalent among a lot of Canadians. I believe this perspective needs to change more importantly now than ever as we have been experiencing issues related to floods, drought, wildfire consistently in the last few years. I am committed to being part of that broader conversation, advocating for sustainable practices, and raising awareness about the critical importance of water resources.
How has Engineering changed your view on the world?
As a water resource engineer, my perspective on the world has evolved significantly. I have come to understand the interconnectedness of natural systems and human activities, realizing how water resources impact public health, economic development, and social equity. This awareness has heightened my appreciation for sustainability, emphasizing the need for responsible water management for current and future generations.
My role has also underscored the importance of community engagement, teaching me that effective solutions must consider the needs of those affected – which are people. Additionally, facing challenges like climate change has fostered a mindset of innovation and adaptation. Overall, my engineering experience has transformed my view of the world, motivating me to advocate for sustainable practices and equitable solutions that benefit both people and the planet and making me more responsible citizen.
What advice do you have for future / current engineering students?
My advice to future and current engineering students centers around four key principles that I’ve learned through my own journey.
First, maintain a positive attitude. Engineering is a challenging profession, and there will be struggles along the way. However, a positive mindset can make all the difference. With consistent effort, no goal is unachievable—it’s only a matter of time before you reach the summit. Staying positive keeps you resilient in the face of difficulties.
Second, networking is vital. Building strong relationships is key to success. I encourage students to volunteer, join professional organizations, and actively connect with people in the field. Not only will this help you gain valuable insights and learn from others’ real-world experiences, but it also opens doors to new opportunities. Engineering is a long journey, and the connections you make will support you through the challenges and collaborations that lie ahead.
Third, hone your technical skills. The engineering world is rapidly evolving, so it is important to stay updated with the latest tools and techniques. Build a strong foundation in your area (i.e., clear theoretical concepts), and learn software and programming languages to support your area of engineering. Employers are looking for these skills, and having a solid technical base will make you stand out.
Finally, pursue what excites you. Don’t underestimate your worth or stick with something that doesn’t fulfill you. If you find that you are not enjoying your work (and trust me I have been in this situation)—whether it is a research project or a job—don’t be afraid to move on. You should feel motivated and proud of what you do because it takes up a significant part of your day. There are always opportunities for people who have hunger to learn and improve. Remember, this time, you are not starting over; you are moving forward with all the experience you have gained. Embrace new opportunities, and always seek out work that inspires and excites you.
Anything else you’d like to share about your Alumni story?
As a UBC Okanagan alumnus, I am deeply grateful for the experiences and relationships that shaped my journey.
UBCO was more than an academic institution—it was a community that connected me with mentors, peers, and lifelong friends.
From collaborating on research to leadership roles, my time there prepared me for a fulfilling career in engineering.
In the later stages of my PhD, my wife became my biggest source of strength. She stood by all my decisions, offered guidance whenever needed, and continually motivated me to push forward. Despite her own career ambitions, she made sacrifices when we moved to the U.S. for my first job after completing my PhD. A big shoutout to her, the unsung hero in my journey!
Dr. Sumi Siddiqua, Professor of Civil Engineering and Associate Director of Graduate Studies for UBC Okanagan’s School of Engineering, has been honoured by the Canadian Geotechnical Society (CGS).
Dr. Siddiqua was presented with CGS’s Geoenvironmental Award at the organization’s annual conference (GeoMontréal 2024), held this year from September 15 – 18 in Montréal, Quebec.
“It’s a great feeling to be recognized by our peers. I am humbled and happy. I hope that events like this will motivate women engineering students to take on exciting roles and create opportunities to thrive,” said Dr. Siddiqua.
CGS President Rob Kenyon presents the 2024 Geoenvironmental Award to Dr. Sumi Siddiqua.
“Congratulations Sumi, to you and to your entire research team, on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for modeling the way for us, and for continuing to elevate our School as a leader in research, training and collaboration in geomaterials,” said Dr. Will Hughes, Director of the School of Engineering at UBC Okanagan.
Watch a video about the award.
Further reading:
About the Canadian Geotechnical Society
The Canadian Geotechnical Society is the leading organization for geotechnical engineering and related geoscience in Canada. The CGS is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and the creation of opportunities to exchange information among individuals from academia (both faculty and students), consulting, government, industry, contractors, and various providers of geotechnical-related products and services.
With approximately 1,400 members across Canada and around the world, the CGS is a driving force in the geotechnical profession by providing opportunities for members to upgrade their skills, to present research and case histories, and to connect with other geotechnical professionals locally, nationally, and internationally.
Meet Dahlia Mohammadi, a second-year student in the Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) Computer Engineering program at UBC Okanagan’s School of Engineering.
Read about Dahlia’s experience in first-year and her tips for incoming and current first-year students.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m a second-year Computer Engineering student, and although I’ve lived in different parts of Canada, from Toronto to Calgary, my family and I now call Kelowna home.
My journey into programming started early—I’ve been coding in C and C++ since I was 11, and it’s become a core part of who I am. I’m really passionate about exploring different programming languages and expanding my skills. Outside of coding, I make time for my other interests, like playing golf and tennis, which helps me stay balanced and focused.
What drew you to UBC Okanagan and the School of Engineering?
Since I already live in Kelowna, attending UBC Okanagan felt like a natural choice. Being able to go home after classes adds a level of comfort, and visiting the campus before making my decision really solidified my choice. I appreciate the close-knit environment here, where students like myself have the opportunity to connect with professors and build meaningful relationships.
Initially, I was drawn to the sciences and even considered pursuing pre-med to become a dentist. However, I realized that I had a stronger passion for Computer Science, and I made a last-minute decision to shift my focus. When I applied to UBC, I had already heard about the Computer Engineering program being offered at the Okanagan campus, which made me think, why not pursue Computer Engineering?
Engineering has always been in the back of my mind since both of my parents are Mechanical Engineers, so it felt like a natural direction for me to consider. My experience at the School of Engineering has had its challenges, but overall, I’m happy with my decision and excited about what the future holds.
What were some of the challenges you faced in first-year? How did you overcome them?
I won’t lie and say my first year was perfect. There were many tough moments, both with school and friendships. Finding your community and the right group of friends can have such an impact. During my second semester, I began to build the right friendships and it helped me finish the year strong. I stayed focused on the positives and kept working toward what I’m truly passionate about. First year is challenging, but it’s absolutely doable—never give up! To any first-year students in UBCO Engineering, you’ve got this!
To any first-year students in UBCO Engineering, you’ve got this!
Remember, there are plenty of resources available to support you along the way, such as Academic Advising for course planning, tutoring services for extra help, and the Student Learning Hub for workshops and study strategies. Counselling Services are there to support your mental health, and joining clubs and student groups can help you connect with others and take a break from academics. Make the most of these resources, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it!
What has been the best part about being a UBCO Engineering student so far?
I’ve made friendships that I know will last a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.
As a UBCO Engineering student, there have been two key aspects that I’ve found particularly enjoyable. The first is the coursework. During my first year, I especially enjoyed APSC 178 and COSC 111. In APSC 178, I found the lecture material engaging and looked forward to attending each class—special shoutout to Dr. Loic Markley for making the subject matter so interesting and enjoyable. For COSC 111, I was initially nervous as I had little experience with Java, but I appreciated the opportunity to learn a new programming language and broaden my programming skills.
I’ve made friendships that I know will last a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.
The second highlight has been the connections I’ve made. In my second semester, I met an amazing group of people who have taught me how to embrace my most authentic self. It’s been great to relate to one another over shared experiences with courses, exams, and assignments. I’ve made friendships that I know will last a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.
What inspired you to pursue Computer Engineering? What excites you about this field?
As I mentioned earlier, my passion for programming played a significant role in my decision to pursue Computer Engineering. I wanted to choose a path that I would genuinely enjoy, rather than settling for something that might leave me unfulfilled.
The career opportunities for Computer Engineers were also a big factor in my decision, as they open up exciting possibilities.
The career opportunities for Computer Engineers were also a big factor in my decision, as they open up exciting possibilities. I’m particularly interested in working in the field of AI, which I believe will be a key part of our future as a society. Being a part of that breakthrough is something I’m really excited about.
What are your goals?
After completing my bachelor’s degree, I fully intend to pursue two master’s degrees in the United States—one in Computer Engineering and the other in Business. I’m not entirely sure yet whether I’ll pursue a PhD, as I’m still early in my post-secondary journey, but it’s something I’ll consider down the road.
Another goal of mine is to work for a major tech company in the U.S. It’s been a long-standing dream of mine to gain experience and contribute to companies I’ve admired for years, and I’m excited to see where that path will take me.
How has Engineering changed your view on the world?
After my first year, I came to realize that Engineering is much more than just solving equations and building bridges. There are so many different specializations within the field, and I was fascinated by the wide range of areas where Engineering has a profound impact. It made me truly appreciate how essential Engineering is to the functioning and advancement of society.
In 5 words or less, how would you sum up the UBCO / School of Engineering experience?
Rewarding, Challenging, Busy, Innovative, Dynamic.
What advice do you have for future / current engineering students?
Dahlia Mohammadi, UBCO Computer Engineering student
One: Always manage your time wisely. Keep up with your classes and understand the material as you go. Cramming before a midterm or final doesn’t work and only adds unnecessary stress. Good planning is key, especially when juggling 5 or 6 courses. If you manage your time well, you can finish assignments early in the week and still have time to hang out with friends or pursue other interests outside of school.
Two: Every class matters, even the ones that seem boring or unnecessary. Just because a lecture doesn’t excite you doesn’t mean it lacks value. Often, those less interesting classes hold essential lessons for your overall learning, so it’s best not to disregard them.
Three: You may not find your friends immediately on the first day of university, and that’s okay! I met my close friends in the second semester of my first year, and I couldn’t be happier. If someone you meet at university stops talking to you, don’t blame yourself. Keep moving forward and focus on yourself and your goals. Never take responsibility for others’ actions—you will meet amazing people here. Remember, everything happens for a reason!
Mentors, make your mark! Volunteer as a mentor with the UBC Engineering Mentoring Program.
Submit your application by Sept. 18, 2024.
Share your knowledge and experience with students who are defining their career path, expanding their professional network and developing important professional skills.
Learn more on the Engineering Mentoring Program page and complete the online form to become a mentor.
Are you a student looking for mentorship? Here’s a few reasons why students should participate:
Mentees will engage in a triad-model of mentorship, where they will be matched with another student and an industry professional. Students in the undergrad first-year stream will be matched with an upper-year student as well as an industry mentor. With an emphasis on relationship-based networking, you will engage with your group while exploring themed outcomes designed to support and enhance career development.
Learn more and apply online by Sept. 18.