Q&A with Arjun Sachdeva

Coming into first year, I was deciding between Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, but courses like Statics and Materials, along with my experience on Baja SAE, confirmed that Mechanical Engineering was the right fit.

Arjun Sachdeva

Second Year Mechanical Engineering

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

Why Western Engineering?

Western Engineering stood out because of its general first year, incredible design teams, and the opportunities that come with a large university. I wasn't sure which discipline I wanted to pursue in high school, so being able to explore different fields before specializing was invaluable. Getting involved with Baja SAE ultimately helped me realize Mechanical Engineering was the right fit for me.

What do you do in your spare time?

During the summer, I spend as much time outdoors as possible, working as a tree planter and leading wilderness canoe trips. I also love travelling, and have recently visited Hawaii, the Cayman Islands, and Spain. This winter I'm looking forward to visiting Indonesia. During the school year, you'll usually find me at the gym, cooking, camping, skiing, or spending time with friends.

Can you talk about your extracurricular activities at Western?

During the first year I wasn't very involved, but joining Baja SAE and WECCA showed me how valuable extracurriculars can be. Going into second year, I'm an Eng Soph, UES Wellness Commissioner, Engineering Ambassador, and Baja SAE member, and I'm hoping to join Rocketry as well. Outside engineering, I'm involved with the Ski & Snowboard Club and Western Outdoors Club. Clubs are the best way to meet people, learn from upper years, and build a real sense of community.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

I've always been interested in cars, planes, and anything mechanical. Coming into first year, I was deciding between Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, but courses like Statics and Materials, along with my experience on Baja SAE, confirmed that Mechanical Engineering was the right fit. I'm especially interested in vehicle design, materials, and fluid systems, and I'm excited to explore those areas further!

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

My favourite book is Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life. It's a memoir that follows a lifelong surfer through adventures across Hawaii, California, the South Pacific, and South Africa. Beyond surfing, it's really about curiosity, travel, and pursuing what you love. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a great adventure story, and I'm always happy to lend out my copy.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

The person I look up to most is my mom. Throughout high school I wasn't sure what I wanted to study, and she encouraged me to pursue engineering. That push led me to Western Engineering, where I've found opportunities, friends, and experiences that have made it one of the best decisions I've made. Her work ethic, optimism, and determination continue to shape how I approach challenges and pursue my own goals.