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

Fourth 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.

Can you talk about your extracurricular activities at Western?

I am a part of the Western Baja Racing team where we design, manufacture, test, and race an offroad baja car all across Canada and US. This club has been such an important part of my experience at Western and I recommend every engineer find a way to join a build team during their time here. I am also a writer for the engineering newspaper and volunteer as a student ambassador. All of these have allowed me to connect with my classmates and help others throughout my time at Western.

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?

As an aspiring engineer I look up to all kinds of people. Namely those closest to me that I can have a direct connection to. At this stage I mostly look up to those ahead of me such as upper year students, alumni, coworkers at my internship, and people who have already become practicing engineers. These people are who I strive to become in the near future and am able to speak with on a frequent basis in order to seek help or advice.