Q&A with Pranav Joshi

To me, success means feeling fulfilled by whatever I’m doing, which also means finding success in the little things.

Pranav Joshi

Third Year Electrical Engineering and Artificial Intelligence Systems Engineering

 

Pranav is a student ambassador here to answer your questions. Click here to contact Pranav.

Do you remember when you decided you wanted to pursue engineering? What sparked your interest?

I decided to pursue engineering about 2 days before the OUAC selection deadline. The reason I chose engineering was because I’ve always enjoyed math and physics, as well as learning about how all the machines around us work. What excited me the most about engineering was the idea that you can create something new and useful with nothing but raw materials and the right knowledge. Looking back, I’m very happy with my decision and I’m enjoying the program a lot.

How do you manage school-related stress?

I usually like to listen to music or take walks outside to help decompress and get some fresh air. But while that is important, I’ve found that the best way to deal with school-related stress is to tackle it head-on. Seeing myself chip away at a project or make progress in an exam review and seeing my workload decrease helps much more than anything else I’ve tried.

What is your favourite quote?

“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”

 – Confucius

 

Favourite study spot on campus?

My favourite study spot on campus is the lower floors of Taylor Library. The endless rows of cubicles aren’t the prettiest thing on campus and the strict silence policy means you can’t talk with your friends, but when it comes down to getting as much work done as possible, it also means that you’ll always find a seat, and you’re much less likely to get distracted, making it ideal during exam season.

Can you talk about your extra-curricular activities at Western (clubs, teams, volunteer work, outreach activities, athletics etc.)? Why would you encourage students to get involved in extra-curricular activities at Western Engineering?

I’ve been involved with Western’s Baja SAE club since my first year, where we got to build an off-road vehicle, and started doing research this summer in areas involving sustainable energy. Joining clubs and doing extracurriculars are a useful way of gaining experience in any topics you might be interested in. They are also a great way of meeting people and making new friends since you share common interests and have something to connect over.

What is success to you?

To me, success means feeling fulfilled by whatever I’m doing, which also means finding success in the little things. It could range from improving myself by learning or going to the gym, supporting my friends and family, or even playing with my dog.