Q&A with Julia Martin

My fascination with science - and a push to make a medical impact - led me from ‘mad scientist’ dreams to pursuing biomedical engineering.

Julia Martin

Second Year Chemical Engineering and Biomedical Engineering

 

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

Why Western Engineering?

I am to the strong belief that Engineering is a team sport of a program-whether that be in classes, clubs, or outside of school. Western engineering ensures that every student belongs from day one; the community that surrounds Western is something like no other. There’s something truly special about this program that goes beyond the academics and allows you to grow personally and professionally from the very start- If I was back in senior year tasked with picking a university again, I wouldn’t have chosen any different.

What do you do in your spare time?

If I’m not in class or labs, I can usually be found at the rec center, riding my bike around campus, or working on my astronomy research, something I’ve been passionate about since I was a kid. Anyone who’s ever said balance isn’t possible in Engineering has never met the power of Excel spreadsheets and Google Calendar!

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

As an out of province student, moving across the country was one of the most daunting experiences I’ve ever had to face; I wouldn’t change it for the world. From moving into my dorm, with a roommate who is now my best friend to feeling like part of something greater on faculty day, orientation week is 100% something I recommend enjoying to the fullest; you only get to be a first year once!

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

If you asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, chances are I’d probably say mad scientist, aka, a chemical engineer. I’ve always been fascinated by the science of what’s around us, especially heat transfer and chemical reactions. However, after taking the first-year design class, I challenged myself to think about how I could apply something I’m passionate about in a way that could have an impact in the medical world-pushing me to apply for biomed. And while I haven’t found a co-op posting for “Mad Scientist”, a career in pharmaceuticals and bio scaffolding is looking pretty good.

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

My favourite movie is without a doubt Oppenheimer-not only does it have the best scored soundtrack I’ve ever heard but does such and incredible job about telling the story of such a pivotal event within the intersection of physics, engineering and chemistry. After a long week of classes, it’s one of my go-to watches.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

I look up to a lot of my friends within the program. Everyone comes with a different background and life experience, and watching everyone learn and find their place within the school and beyond has truly been a privilege. I always love hearing about what they’re learning about in their own classes and trying out new intramurals and clubs together! One of my favourite things about Western is having opportunity to meet so many people from so many backgrounds, who are just as excited about Engineering as I am.