Q&A with Jordan Toutrakanov

I chose Western Engineering because it strikes the perfect balance of strong academics, vibrant community life, and a campus environment that immediately felt like home.

Jordan Toutrakanov

Third Year Mechanical Engineering with a Short Term Co-op

 

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

Why Western Engineering?

When I was looking at all the different universities I wanted to find a balance between strong academics, good extra curriculars, and opportunities for a good social life. Western was one of the few places that was able to provide a great balance of all these factors. I also love our campus and its layout, I was definitely swayed by it.

What do you do in your spare time?

Most of the time homework :( . Other than that, I think it's important to stay active, so I swim, run, and play basketball. It's also important to make sure you take some time away from studying to go out and enjoy yourself every once in a while to balance out the work with play, so I make sure I spend time with friends as well.

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

I had an amazing time during my orientation and it was largely due to forcing myself to go to more of the events than I usually would have wanted. This made it so I met so many more people and got settled into my university life a lot quicker and easier. Even so, I wish I went to even more, o-week was one of my favorite university memories. I also took the opportunity to explore London which was very helpful for later in the year when I needed something and already knew where it was.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

I was always interested in things like cars, rockets, and planes. This led me down the path of mechanical/aerospace engineering and that became a tough choice when applying to universities. Ultimately, I based my decision off my father, who himself is a mechanical engineer where I have been able to see how useful that degree has been for him. I was given another opportunity to switch during 1st year ITR, but throughout 1st year I was only further convinced that my initial commitment to mechanical engineering was the correct one.

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

My favorite film is Pacific Rim, for obvious reasons, but I can never say no to a marathon of all the rush hour movies. I also love watching Formula 1, football, basketball, and tons of other sports.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

I look up to many people that invent/discover new technologies. People like Geoffery De Havilland, the designer of the world’s first jet liner, who modernized global travel into what we know it as today and brought on a new age of technology and transport.