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 Kira Allen
I’ve really enjoyed meeting others who are dedicated to their academics and well-rounded at the same time, and I think Western’s extracurricular opportunities and emphasis on student life helps its students to find balance.
Kira Allen
Second Year Mechanical Engineering
Kira is a student ambassador here to answer your questions. Click here to contact Kira.
Why Western Engineering?
When I was choosing a university, Western’s strong sense of community and school spirit stood out to me. I’ve really enjoyed meeting others who are dedicated to their academics and well-rounded at the same time, and I think Western’s extracurricular opportunities and emphasis on student life helps its students to find balance.
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I run for Western’s Cross Country team! Although it takes strong time-management skills, it’s always worth it because my teammates and coaches are incredible and exercise is great for stress relief. I also enjoy going for walks with friends, cooking, reading, and doing escape rooms!
What was your orientation week experience like as a first-year student?
I honestly found orientation week overwhelming! It can take time to adjust to a new environment. Fortunately, plenty of people are looking out for you during orientation and beyond, like the peer leaders known as Sophs and Dons. It was helpful to have time to get used to navigating residence life and Western’s Campus before classes started. There’s no better time to start meeting people than right away, so go to events and introduce yourself to people, especially if it’s out of your comfort zone.
Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?
I plan to take a dual degree in mechatronic systems engineering and physics! My engineering journey is atypical because I started in Western’s Integrated Science program, where I discovered my passion for physics. I decided that physics alone was too theoretical for me, so I switched into engineering in order to apply concepts to the real world. I’m very interested in improving the viability of sustainable energy, which is why I’m drawn to mechatronic systems engineering (often known as ‘Tron’!)
What is your favourite book, movie, or TV show?
My favourite book is Circe by Madeline Miller because of its prose and emotion, and my favourite movie is Inception because it’s the best kind of confusing.
Who do you look up to/admire and why?
I look up to Teresa Purzner, my soph ‘Glizzy,’ Julie-Anne Staehil, and my parents. All of these people inspire me for different reasons, but the qualities they have in common are kindness and incredible dedication to their goals.
