Q&A with Braeden Fava

Western Engineering gave me the freedom to explore, customize my path, and discover the discipline that truly fit - opening doors to endless possibilities.

Braeden Fava

Fourth Year Mechatronic Systems Engineering and Ivey HBA

 

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

Why Western Engineering?

I chose Western Engineering for the breadth and customizability it offers its students. The common first year gave me the opportunity to explore subjects of interest while surrounded by like-minded peers. My exposure to such a diversity of knowledge and perspectives ultimately guided me to select the right discipline. Western Engineering’s dual degree opportunity was also influential in my program decision. It serves to bolster one’s skillset, opening doors to a multitude of career paths.

What do you do in your spare time?

Outside engineering, I love weight training and cooking. They’re both great ways to take my mind off academics, while still pushing my limits! It feels great to take care of your health both physically and mentally. I also enjoy long walks with friends, volunteering at the hospital, and golfing.

Can you talk about your extracurricular activities at Western?

Balance is truly the recipe for success, and extracurriculars are an excellent way to achieve it. For me, extracurriculars have allowed me to pursue my passions outside the classroom while staying connected with the communities I love most. In Western Engineering, I am the VP Finance for Engineers Without Borders, a club volunteering its time to promoting sustainability, equity, and youth engagement. At Ivey, I am the VP Academics of the student council, and facilitate our school’s clubs, exchange, mentorship, careers, tutoring, and dual-degree programs.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

As a high school student, I was drawn to engineering but found it hard to decide which discipline I most aligned with. Western’s general first year helped me answer that question. The mechanics of ES1021 and ES1022 intrigued me. The enthusiasm of my programming professor made me fall in love with the subject just as he had. Electromagnetism in physics and my design project challenged me in the best ways. I chose mechatronics because it allows me to integrate all my interests.

What is your favourite book, movie, or TV show?

My favourite TV show is Avatar: The Last Airbender. Every time I watch it, I get hit with a wave of nostalgia. It makes me think back to my childhood when my dad would rent DVDs from the store next to his office. As a child, I found the action exciting and the dialogue funny. As I’ve grown older, I’ve also come to appreciate the deeper themes contained within the story. Avatar is great on the first binge, and even better on every rewatch!

Who is someone you look up to/admire and why?

My sister may be younger than me, but I definitely look up to her. Growing up together, she has always had a strong sense of potential, both in herself and those around her. She isn’t afraid to push what she is capable of, whether it be in academics or athletics. As a result, she has grown into a talented, intelligent, and strong person. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence motivate me to become the best version of myself.