November 10, 2021
Meet Andrea!
Hi everyone! My name is Andrea Chakma! I will be finishing my third year of Mechatronics in January 2021. I'm currently working as a software developer consultant at a consulting firm. Within engineering I am a part of our Engineering Society, Women In Engineering Undergraduate Committee and Engineering Ambassadors. Outside of school I volunteer locally and internationally with Girl Guides and enjoy reading, running, and travelling!
Why did you choose your specific program?
I chose Mechatronics Engineering because I didn't know what I wanted to choose. I knew I liked math and science but I didn't know what specific type of engineering would best fit me so I chose a program that had a little bit of everything. In Mechatronics engineering you get a mix of Systems Design, Mechanical, and Electrical and Computer Engineering which is perfect to explore and keep a broad range of opportunities open! Plus, you get to do some cool projects like the Lego Robot I created in first year.
What do you do as an ambassador? Why did you become an ambassador? How can someone become an ambassador?
As a Waterloo Engineering Ambassador, I am a volunteer that speaks at various events and panels about my experience with Engineering at Waterloo. I've also been the lead for Eng Chats which is a virtual opportunity where prospective students can sign up to speak to a current engineering student from their preferred program. It's a great way to get to know more about our engineering programs on a personal level. I became an ambassador because I really enjoyed getting to talk to students and provide them a real perspective as to what it's like as an engineering student. If you're interested in becoming an ambassador, check out @uwengambassadors and there's a link to sign up!
Favourite Waterloo memory (events, workshops, etc)?
My favorite Waterloo memory is not a specific memory with a date or time but it's rather a series of memories studying with my friends and working on projects together. I've had the opportunity to meet so many inspiring and passionate individuals through engineering, which has really been a great source of motivation throughout the program.
