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Q&A with Shiqu (Sam) Pu

 

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

What inspired you to choose engineering?

When I needed to choose a major for my four-year study, I considered many things like what kind of job I will have, what I am good at, what the content of the job would be. I researched different fields like computer science, chemistry and life science, and engineering. I asked people who are in those industries how they feel about their jobs. After that, I checked the courses and structures of the different majors and found out engineering is a good fit for me as I like the idea of using knowledge to improve human life. Engineering has a design course every year. I thought it can help me gain lots of hands-on experiences during my study. I was inspired by one of my family members, an engineer, who believes I will succeed in this major. So, I decided to choose engineering.

Why did you choose electrical engineering?

I chose electrical engineering as I was interested in many perspectives of this flied. Compared with other programs, electrical engineering includes broader topics like software, electronic, power systems and communications. It gives me a chance to study all of them and I can decide to expand my skills in more specific fields after I have the full picture of each of them.

Why Western Engineering?

I chose Western because of its course structure. Western Engineering has an excellent structure for students who want a dual degree (Ivey HBA and Engineering dual degree). Western Engineering provides opportunities to learn knowledge in different areas and combines them to build a comprehensive skill set. In addition, Western Engineering is one of the universities that provides a common first-year course for students to learn more about engineering before choosing a specific discipline. It includes courses covering all the engineering fundamentals plus an engineering business course. I liked the idea of building a business mindset for an engineering student. Those were the reasons I chose Western.

Tips for international students?

Many international students come from abroad to study, and feel it is hard to deal with the language barrier and culture boundary. At the same time, the workload and studying is also different than in high school. The most important tip from my four-year study at Western is to find people to help and don’t be afraid to ask. Western Engineering has a comprehensive team to help students succeed. When I was looking for a co-op placement, I got lots of help from the Career Services team for improving my resume and cover letter, practicing interviews and providing feedback to make it better.

Western Engineering also has a very good counselors team to help with academic questions. In addition, we have a wonderful mental health support counselor. They provide mental health support for students and organize events that help students relieve stress. Western also offers help like writing support, speaking practice groups, and international student events to help you in many different areas. I got help from the International Student Center for my application of a co-op work permit and social insurance number as well. There is always someone willing to help you at Western.