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Q&A with Cameron Brooks

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

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

My path to engineering is not your typical one. I applied to half science and half engineering for my university applications in high school and ultimately decided to go to Western for Medical Sciences. Part way through my first year my career aspirations shifted and I decided to transfer into Electrical Engineering starting in my second year to pursue my love for design and creative thinking. What it came down to was that engineering broadened my potential career paths and gave me the ability to widen my impact on the world.

How do you manage school-related stress?

I manage my stress by staying organized using a calendar and to-do lists so that things don’t pile up on me. This also lets me put aside time for stress-relieving activities like spending time with friends and being active through things like biking and participating in intramurals. Taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep and exercise goes a long way towards managing stress and doing well in school. Everyone is different, so taking the time to find out what helps you manage your stress and wellbeing is ~very~ important.

What is your favourite quote?

In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on. - Robert Frost

You’re going to face setbacks and disappointments in life, especially in engineering, and you just have to learn to pick yourself back up and keep going.

Favourite study spot on campus?

Computer labs in the Amit Chakma building or the tables in the lobby of Thompson Engineering.

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?

At Western I am involved with academic research focused on sustainability and technology, the Sunstang solar car design team as the BMS sub-lead, the Undergraduate Engineering Society as the Wellness Commissioner, the Western Engineering Competition as Senior Design Director, and with student orientation as part of the sophing program. I encourage students to get involved with extracurricular as it helps your career through forming valuable connections and gaining employable skills as well as it allows you to make new friends and take a break from your courses.

What is success to you?

Success to me means being able apply what you’ve learned and experienced to make a meaningful change or to pursue something you’re passionate about. Success to me isn’t just any one thing, but rather a combination of many, including your sense of purpose, monetary earnings, positive relationships, and personal achievements. Success looks very different for different people and figuring out what it means for you is the first step towards a fulfilling career as an engineer.