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 Braeden Fava
As someone who has always had a curious mind, I love how diverse engineering is. The sector is incredibly broad, and an engineering degree can often open doors to various other industries.
Braeden Fava
Second Year Mechatronic Systems Engineering
Braeden is a student ambassador here to answer your questions. Click here to contact Braeden.
Why Western Engineering?
I chose Western Engineering for the breadth and customizability it offers its students. The common first year gave me the opportunity to explore subjects of interest while surrounded by like-minded peers. My exposure to such a diversity of knowledge and perspectives ultimately guided me to select the right discipline. Western Engineering’s dual degree opportunity was also influential in my program decision. It serves to bolster one’s skillset, opening doors to a multitude of career paths.
What do you do in your spare time?
Outside engineering, I love weight training and cooking. They’re both great ways to take my mind off academics, while still pushing my limits! It feels great to take care of your health both physically and mentally. I also enjoy long walks with friends, volunteering at the hospital, and golfing.
What was your orientation experience like as a first-year student?
My orientation week was chaotic but super rewarding. I met so many people, whether through my faculty, residence or just exploring the campus. Going through the same experiences together is the best recipe for friendship. The university does a great job of organizing fun activities to make it even easier to meet other students. For example, I did a mud run with other first-year engineers and played bubble soccer with my residents! Some of these people I call my best friends today.
Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?
As a high school student, I was drawn to engineering but found it hard to decide which discipline I most aligned with. Western’s general first year helped me answer that question. The mechanics of ES1021 and ES1022 intrigued me. The enthusiasm of my programming professor made me fall in love with the subject just as he had. Electromagnetism in physics and my design project challenged me in the best ways. I chose mechatronics because it allows me to integrate all my interests.
What is your favourite book, movie, or TV show?
My favourite TV show is Avatar: The Last Airbender. Every time I watch it, I get hit with a wave of nostalgia. It makes me think back to my childhood when my dad would rent DVDs from the store next to his office. As a child, I found the action exciting and the dialogue funny. As I’ve grown older, I’ve also come to appreciate the deeper themes contained within the story. Avatar is great on the first binge, and even better on every rewatch!
Who is someone you look up to/admire and why?
My sister may be younger than me, but I definitely look up to her. Growing up together, she has always had a strong sense of potential, both in herself and those around her. She isn’t afraid to push what she is capable of, whether it be in academics or athletics. As a result, she has grown into a talented, intelligent, and strong person. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence motivate me to become the best version of myself.
