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• Q&A with Rakhee Patel

Q&A with Rakhee Patel

 

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

Why Western Engineering?

I chose Western Engineering for the general first year. In high school, I was interested in engineering, but I had no idea what type of engineering to choose. Unlike other engineering programs, at Western, I didn’t have to decide which discipline I wanted to do right away. The general first year let me sample all the different disciplines and learn which ones I like. A few years later, I am on a very different path than I initially thought I might take, and am loving every minute of it.

What do you do in your spare time?


In my free time, I try to do things that bring me joy. I am part of the Western Engineering Toboggan Team, which allows me to blend my engineering expertise with my passion for design in a creative and fulfilling manner. Additionally, I've embraced rock climbing during my time at Western. Climbing is a fantastic outlet to detach and unwind from my busy engineering schedule while providing a great opportunity to spend time with friends.

What was your orientation week experience like as a first-year student?

My orientation experience was slightly hindered since I started school during the pandemic. As such, I have tried my best to get the orientation experience over the past two years in my role as an orientation leader. As an O-Week leader, I got to participate in amazing events, meet other student leaders, welcome first years to campus, and help new students find their footing. While I didn't get the traditional O-Week experience, being an O-Week leader has allowed me to experience it all.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

I like to say I chose mechanical engineering as my discipline because I “trusted the process” of Western Engineering’s general first year. The opportunity to sample each discipline helped me determine which types of engineering I gravitated toward and could see myself pursuing. After falling in love with my first-year design class, and the computer-aided design aspect of the course, I knew mechanical engineering was my discipline.

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

My favourite book series is Harry Potter. When I was 8 years old, my dad started reading the series to me, and it became a nightly routine. Not only did J.K. Rowling’s world make the magic come to life, but it also became a way for me to spend time with my dad. As I got older, re-reading the books would bring me back to my childhood and reconnect me with these fond memories. I think the Harry Potter series will always hold a special place in my heart as I’m sure it does so many others.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

I greatly admire my parents for their determination and unwavering support. Growing up they instilled in me the importance of hard work and striving to achieve my goals. Having lived by this principle all their lives, I've witnessed their success and dedication. Additionally, they have both consistently prioritized my well-being and dreams, offering support every step of the way. I wouldn't be where I am today without these strong role models cheering me on throughout my journey.