Q&A with Kian Paliani

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

Why did you choose Software Engineering?
I chose Software Engineering because I have always been interested in understanding how computers work and the software that runs on them. From a very early age, I was interested in computers and when I took Computer Science in high school, I loved it because it required thinking and problem solving and it was always so thrilling when your software finally worked! I believe that the best part about being in Software Engineering is that you can make some pretty cool stuff that may eventually have millions of users! Truly everything around us has been affected by technology, in one way or another, and I am excited to be part of this technological industry. 

Why Western Engineering?
The main reason I chose Western Engineering is because of the Software Engineering program. Software Engineering is a unique discipline in Engineering and is not part of all Engineering programs. Western Engineering provides me with a program that allows me to explore a variety of specific areas within Software Engineering and in my 4th Year, I have the opportunity to create a capstone project in an area of my choice.

Although I chose Western Engineering to be part of the Software program, I love Western Engineering because of the small community feel and how all the students are so close to each other and are very supportive of one another. Western Engineering students work together to help one another succeed and it may be cliché, but we really are a family and want the best for each other. As well, Western Engineering offers students many opportunities where they can meet new people and explore different activities. There are numerous student Engineering clubs and events, so that no matter what your interests may be, you will definitely find something to do from social events (e.g. Engineering Formal) to athletic events (e.g. Engineering Intramurals) to academic events (e.g. conferences).

What is so great about Western Engineering is how easy it is to get involved in clubs and teams. This is a great way to meet people and learn at the same time. Indeed, Western Engineering is a place where you can not only pursue academic excellence, but also place where you can explore your other interests and meet incredible life-long friends.

Can you talk about your extracurricular activities at Western?
During my time at Western, I have had the incredible opportunity to take on a variety of leadership roles including: Western Engineering Competition (WEC) Co-Software Coordinator, 2nd Yr. & 4th Yr. Software Engineering Class Rep. and Frosty Leader during Frost Week. As well, I have been an Engineering Student Ambassador, Engineering Team Leader & Panelist where I have helped future students during Fall Preview Day, March Break Open House, Summer Academic Orientation (SAO) and Intent to Register for 1st Year Students. I have also been involved with numerous Engineering clubs and events including: Aero Design Team Member, Engineering Store Volunteer, Terry Fox Run, Run to End Poverty, Western-Hack-a-thon, Engineering Formal and the Engineering musical. Each club has been fun and exciting in its own way. I love being on the UES because it gives me a chance to meet people outside Software Engineering and to see what is going on within the Engineering Faculty. I highly recommend going to the general meetings of a few clubs and then picking one that seems the most interesting to you. I recommend getting involved in extra-curricular activities because it gives you opportunities to take your mind off school and is something fun you can do with friends. The experiences you will gain by being part of these amazing clubs, will be memories that you will cherish forever.

Favourite study spot on campus?
My favourite study spot is the Software Engineering Lab because my friends will often be in there and we can help each other. 

What is success to you?
Success to me is doing something you love and being happy doing it!

What is a fun fact about yourself?
A fun fact about me is that I was a competitive Irish dancer for over 10 years. As well, I am a 5-time Eastern Canadian Irish Dancing Champion and I still love to Irish Dance when no one is looking!

Quick Links