Q&A with Scarlett Wu

O-Week was super high-energy and made me so excited for my time at Western.

Scarlett Wu

Fifth Year Software Engineering and Ivey HBA

 

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

Why Western Engineering?

When I was in grade 12, I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to study. I applied to a couple of schools for architecture, and to Western for engineering because I really liked the idea of combining engineering with business. Over time, I realized that architecture wasn’t the right fit for me, and Western ended up being exactly where I belonged. Looking back, I know I made the right choice — Western has given me the chance to explore my interests and be part of a really supportive community.

What do you do in your spare time?

Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time with friends I’ve met across engineering, student clubs, and elective courses. I make time to recharge personally, but I also find it meaningful to reach out and connect with others — whether that’s studying together, attending a dance session downtown, or sharing a meal. These experiences keep me grounded, provide a nice balance with school, and have made my time at Western especially memorable.

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

O-Week was super high-energy and made me so excited for my time at Western. The Sophs created an environment where it was easy to feel at home within engineering, residence, and the wider Western community. With so many fun events and opportunities to connect, O-Week helped me feel supported from the very beginning. If I could go back, I’d tell my first-year self not to stress about those first few days of classes and to just enjoy O-Week to the fullest.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

I initially applied to Integrated Engineering because I found the idea of learning across multiple disciplines — civil, chemical, electrical, and mechanical — really exciting. However, by the end of my first year, I realized how much I enjoyed and excelled in programming, which made me consider Software Engineering as well. Ultimately, it was conversations with upper-year students that helped me understand what each stream offered, and those insights guided me toward my decision.

What is your favourite book, movie or TV show?

I recently watched K-Pop Demon Hunters and honestly enjoyed it a lot more than I expected! The soundtrack really added to the experience and made the movie so much better. The plot was fun, though I think a few parts could’ve been fleshed out a bit more. Overall, it’s such a entertaining movie, and I’d definitely recommend it.