• Current City: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

• Year arrived in Canada: 2017

• School: University of Saskatchewan

• Academic Program: BSc., Civil Engineering

• Occupation: Geotechnical Engineer in Training (E.I.T)

1. What inspired you to pursue your studies in Civil Engineering of all the academic programs that were available to you? 

My interest in Engineering came about due to the influence I got from my primary school science teacher. He made me fall in love with science and would always tell me that I would make a great engineer. That stuck with me and my interest grew further when I was in high school. When I got the chance to join the university, I couldn’t see myself taking any other program than engineering. Engineering is interesting and requires creative thinking when tackling tasks. Activities aren’t routine and expert judgment is required. Lastly, engineering keeps evolving in terms of technology and discoveries. It is a great field to keep growing through learning new skills.

2. Do you have any advice to new students joining post-secondary institutions on choosing academic programs and careers for success after school?

I encourage them to choose programs they love. Something they would enjoy doing as a career. Most of those who pursue programs due to pressure from family or friends end up struggling and some even drop out. Do what you love!!!!!!!

3. From your experience so far, what does it take to succeed in Canada? (Measuring success in academic and professional terms). 

Being curious and ready to put in the work. Seek for help when you don’t know how to do something. There are no stupid questions and you should never be ashamed to ask. Make friends that you can do school projects and assignments with.

4.  Do you have any ideas on how new students can manage expectations from friends and family back home?

Always remember it is your life and future that you are building and not your family’s. Know your battery limit (capabilities) and walk your journey at your own pace.

5. From your experience transitioning to Canadian life and culture, do you have any advice for new students?

Get out of your comfort zone. Explore and always be eager to learn new ways to live and most importantly, don’t forget your identity and culture.