Experience Western Engineering
Contact
Western Engineering Undergraduate Services Office
Spencer Engineering Building
Room 2097
Western University
Tel: 519-661-2130
Fax: 519-661-3757
Email: futurewe@uwo.ca
Q&A with Maria Paula Garcia Beltran
During my time here I've been impressed time and time again by the culture and environment in this faculty. There is no rivalry or competitiveness between students, there’s always a helping hand extended to you.
Maria Paula Garcia Beltran
Fourth Year Software Engineering and with a Long-term Co-op
Maria is a student ambassador here to answer your questions. Click here to contact Maria.
Why Western Engineering?
Western engineering is unlike any other because of the community we have built. Here, everyone supports each other and the bonds created are closer to family than just friendship. During my time here I've been impressed time and time again by the culture and environment in this faculty. There is no rivalry or competitiveness between students, there’s always a helping hand extended to you. The blend of different backgrounds brought together by shared interests, struggles, and love for the school is what makes engineering at Western truly special.
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to work out and spend time with friends. Life gets busy, but it's so important to make time to take care of yourself. For me, I take care of myself physically by staying active and mentally by spending time with loved ones. Another thing I love to do but admittedly don't always get too much time for is reading. Curling up with a good book and a tea is unmatched.
What was your orientation week experience like as a first-year student?
My orientation week experience as a first-year student was a little different because it was during covid. There were many restrictions in place to keep us safe, but my week was still filled with lots of activities and amazing memories. I remember feeling so excited and hopeful about the next 4 years because of everything I was exposed to. My engineering sophs left a lasting impact on me and it made me want to become a soph myself the following year. It was awesome!
Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?
Honestly, I came to Western thinking I was going to go into something completely different than what I ended up in. During first year, I loved every course I took and it was extremely hard for me to narrow my options down. In the end, it came down to three things: future opportunities, enjoyment, and just my gut-feeling. I think it's okay to not know fully during first year but go with what feels most right to you. That's what I did and I love software!
What is your favourite book, movie, or TV show?
This is a super hard question because I've read a lot of books and I have loved very different books in very different moments of my life. However, I think the first book that comes to mind is 1984 by George Orwell. It's a classic and everyone should read it at some point.
Who do you look up to/admire and why?
Someone I look up to is my dad. He did civil engineering in Colombia and is the person who inspired me to go into engineering. My whole life he instilled a passion for math and problem-solving thinking. Not only in academics, but in life. He was my DIY math teacher as a kid and now my DIY guidance counsellor even in my fourth year. The people who inspire you and support you through your journey are the best kinds of people to look up to.
