Q&A with Natalie Chernysheva

Western Engineering’s supportive, team-oriented culture made me feel included from day one and motivated to grow academically and personally.

Natalie Chernysheva

Second Year Chemical Engineering

 

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

Why Western Engineering?

Western Engineering stood out because of how strong the community is here, it never feels like you're doing this alone. From the moment I stepped on campus I fell in love with it. Engineering here feels like a team sport, not a solo grind. Being far from home also pushed me to figure out who I am and where I belong in engineering, and that mix of community and growth made this the right place for me.

What do you do in your spare time?

I edit videos, for clubs like WSUA and Baja Racing, and sometimes just for myself. When I get the chance I like to read a good book, and I've been trying to learn a few languages just for fun. Most of my time honestly goes toward studying for exams, but I always make time for my pets and family, and for grabbing good food with friends whenever our schedules line up.

Can you talk about your extracurricular activities at Western?

I founded and lead the Western Slavic Unity Association, spent two years on the Baja Racing media team, and I'm in my second year as Video Commissioner for UES, with Merchandise Commissioner coming next. I'm on the Chem-E-Car stopping mechanism subteam, played intramural volleyball, and next year I'll be VP of Communications for the ChemEng Club. Each taught me something different about leadership and teamwork. I'd tell any student to get involved early, it shapes your whole experience here.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

I've loved being in a lab since middle school, and chemistry always fascinated me, I actually almost went into the science program before choosing engineering. Chemical Engineering opened my eyes to how working with chemicals can help solve real problems and help society thrive. It wasn't until second year that it really clicked and I knew I'd picked the right discipline. What I love most is how versatile the degree is, there's so much room to grow into different paths from here.

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

Hands down, The Hunger Games, both the books and the movies. I relate a lot to Katniss and the values she holds onto even when everything is working against her. Suzanne Collins did such a good job building that whole world and making it feel real. Honestly, the dystopian themes are part of what pushed me to want to go out and make some kind of positive impact in the world, even in a small way.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

Honestly this one's hard, I don't think there's one specific person I look up to. But I really admire my parents for immigrating and making so many sacrifices to give me and my sisters better opportunities in life. I also look up to the upperclassmen at Western Engineering who show what hard work and passion can actually build over time. And I guess, in a way, I look up to my future self too, if I keep pushing through the hard parts, hopefully one day I become her.