Q&A with Amelia Korble

Western Engineering became home for me—a place where collaboration, female empowerment, and the freedom to chase every opportunity made crossing the country absolutely worth it.

Amelia Korble

Third Year Mechatronic Systems Engineering and Ivey HBA

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

Why Western Engineering?

There are so many reasons I chose Western Engineering, from the collaborative culture to female empowerment and incredible opportunities. Although it was daunting to leave Alberta and move across the country, I know I made the right decision!

The first reason I chose Western was because I love connecting with others. Western Engineering is about hard work and academics, but the students here value teamwork and connecting with new people. The sense of community makes every challenge exciting and rewarding. When we say eng is a team sport, we mean it! The motto is truly demonstrated at Western.

Another reason I chose Western was because of the Women in Engineering Club. It can be very daunting entering a male-dominated field, but hearing about the Big Sister–Little Sister program in the club motivated me. The club, thoughtfully pairing an upper-year with a first-year, means you have a mentor immediately as you enter the program. Female empowerment is very meaningful to me, being a girls’ soccer coach and growing up with my soccer teammates for years, I know the difference confidence can make for young women just like myself! This will be my second year acting as a Big Sister, and I couldn’t be more excited!

The third reason I came to Western was because of the dual degree opportunity with the Ivey HBA program. Western made it possible for me to pursue both my passion for Mechatronic Systems Engineering and Business. I am

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love hanging out with my friends and roommates. My favorite part of the day, especially after a long or challenging day of classes, is coming home and laughing with them! I also really enjoy playing intramural soccer and going to the Rec Centre. Staying active is important for my mental health, so even on busy days, walking to and from class gives me a chance to move my body and clear my head. When it’s time to truly chill, I love watching reality tv, Survivor and Vanderpump Rules are my favourites.

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

My orientation experience in first year was honestly the best time! It was all about meeting new people, getting into the school spirit, and just taking it all in. A little tip if you want to meet people on your floor right away (if you’re in residence like I was) leave your door open the first couple of move-in days. It invites people in without you having to take that scary first step! Engineering O-Week is really special… you’ll find out soon enough!

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

The great thing about first year is getting to try all the classes and figure out what you enjoy. I realized I loved coding but also physics and circuits. I was drawn to the integrated approach of Mechatronic Systems Engineering, it has incredible applications, and robots are so fascinating. In second year, you get to build your first robot, which is such a cool accomplishment!

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

My favourite TV show is Vanderpump Rules. I love it because the drama is crazy, and my life is pretty chill, so I love the scandals. If you like Vanderpump, PLEASE watch House of Villains! Jax is on it, and it is sooo funny! My roommates will tell you that any chance I get, I am glued to the couch for at least two episodes every day.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

The person I look up to is my big brother! He also goes to Western and studies Mechatronic Systems Engineering and AI. My whole life I wanted to be just like him, we played the same sports, had the same jersey number (6) and are now at the same university... some would say he is copying me ;). I admire him for his drive and ambition. He has started numerous business, some failed and some very successful, and does it all by himself. While he should sometimes ask for help, I admire his attitude of tackling challenges himself and seeing everything as doable. He is also a great communicator and will be a successful leader someday. Lucky to have a big bro like that to mentor me through my life!