Q&A with Nicole Martensson

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

Why did you choose engineering?
I chose to study engineering because I love to solve problems. I want to improve people’s lives and help make the world a better place. I love math and science and I wanted to learn how to apply my knowledge to real world issues. A degree in engineering is also very versatile. The skills you learn can be adapted to so many things.

Why Western Engineering?
I chose Western Engineering for a few reasons. The campus has always felt like home to me. The buildings are beautiful and all the people are so friendly and welcoming. I also really liked how Western has a common first year for Engineering, meaning that you take general courses with all of the other first year Engineering students and decide at the end of the year what specific discipline you want to go into. This allows you to explore all of your options and it’s helpful for people like me who aren’t sure what they want to do yet. I also chose Western Engineering because a lot of the students seemed to have balanced lives. Many of them were involved in several extracurricular activities, such as Western Engineering clubs or intramural sports. Being involved in my community has always been important to me, and I felt like I could do that at Western.

Can you talk about your extracurricular activities at Western? 
Since I’m in first year, a lot of the activities I joined are still a little new to me, but I’m already really enjoying them. I joined Engineers Without Borders, a non-profit organization that brings awareness to global issues and helps make a difference. I’m also the First Year Social Director on the Undergraduate Engineering Society, which is our student government. My position helps plan events for our faculty. I’m also part of Women in Engineering and recently volunteered at the Go ENG Girl event. I think it’s incredibly important to get involved. It helps you feel like a part of the Engineering family and lets you explore your interests.

How do you manage school-related stress? 
I like to manage stress by participating in school clubs and teams. It gives me a chance to take my mind off of school work, meet new people, and see my friends.

Favourite study spot on campus?
I like Weldon because there are spaces where I can work with my friends and spaces that are silent for when I need to get a lot of studying done.

Who do you look up/admire to and why?
Lindsey Stirling, who’s an electric violinist, has always been a huge role model for me. She isn’t afraid to be different and works extremely hard. She inspired me to start playing the violin.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to snowboard, play violin and piano, and go out with my friends.

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