Amy B.

What drew you to U of T Engineering, and how did you decide on Chemical Engineering?

I was drawn to chemical engineering because it combines two subjects I really enjoyed in high school: physics and chemistry. I ultimately chose U of T’s program because of its strong focus on lab-based work. I loved doing hands-on labs in high school, and I was excited to join a program where they’re integrated into the required courses.

How have you tailored your degree through minors, certificates, or areas of focus to reflect your interests?

When I started chemical engineering, I didn’t have a specific area I wanted to pursue. After completing my second-year core courses, I became interested in sustainable energy and manufacturing principles. I explored the courses required for both the Manufacturing and Sustainable Energy minors and realized they complemented each other well, with some overlapping courses that counted toward both. I decided which courses to take by reviewing past exams and reading through course syllabi to better understand the content and expectations.

Was there a club, design team, or student group that became an important part of your experience?

Every club and design team I’ve been part of has helped me grow outside the classroom and meet people I wouldn’t have otherwise. One that has become especially important to me is Engineers Without Borders (EWB). I’ve taken on a couple of different roles within EWB, and I enjoy being part of a club that runs projects and events that make a tangible difference on campus. From building a community garden to organizing informational events, EWB has pushed me to apply the engineering principles I’ve learned in class to real-world problems.

How did you first get involved in research, and what did you enjoy most about that experience?

I first got involved in research during the summer after my second year. I found a position on a U of T job board, applied, and had the opportunity to work with a master’s student on her project over the summer term.

My favourite part of research was solving and analyzing problems that didn’t have clear answers. I learned a new way of approaching complex, technical problems—especially through systems thinking. The most rewarding part was identifying a gap in the existing research, which opened the door to further exploration into why it occurred and how it could be addressed.

What advice would you share with a future U of T Engineering student or their family?

One piece of advice I would give is to prioritize finding a healthy school–life balance in first year and to focus on building strong friendships. There will be times when coursework feels heavy, stressful, or overwhelming, but having a supportive group of friends makes a big difference. A strong network reminds you that you’re not alone when concepts feel confusing and helps you stay grounded. It also encourages you to take breaks and enjoy life—because you can’t study 24/7, and balance is essential for long-term success.