2020 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT OF THE DAY SERIES

What Waterloo volunteer opportunities have you participated in?

• 50th and 60th anniversary celebration dinner (Hong Kong) - Committee Member
• of Mathematics Dean's Lecture in HK (2019) - Chair
• UWaterloo Alumni Hong Kong Chapter - VP of Engagement

Get to know Mei...

1. Why did you choose Waterloo and the Faculty of Math?

Waterloo has the best co-op program which allows for students to gain valuable work experience during their studies. At the time of applying for university, I had set my mind on becoming an accounting professional. And this unique offer (at that time) was the key reason I had chosen Waterloo, as it provided a huge advantage for me to obtain my accountancy qualification after graduation, as well as an opportunity to earn money to support my study. Comparing to the accounting program by Faculty of Math and Faculty of Arts, which was both excellent; I was more drawn to the opportunity to learn about computer science, a trending field at my time!

2. Did you participate in campus and extracurricular activities? If so, which ones?

As a Chinese ethnic, I joined the UW Chinese Student Association where I met many of my life-long friends. While it's great to take part in the co-op program, the nature of the program (on and off-campus for every 4 months) also made it difficult to be committed to any organization. I made much efforts to contribute to the association and helped out in every event and activity being organized while I was on campus. I also took part of the Saturday Chinese program at the student radio station for a few terms and helped editing stories for the Chinese student newspaper.

3. What’s your favourite Waterloo memory?

My fond memory of Waterloo always started at DC library, where many of us just studied and hung out together. We never planned anything in advance and the days always ended exceeding my expectation. We practiced work hard and play hard to the most, especially on Wednesday, when we would go for beers and 10 cents chicken wings.

4. How did your experience at Waterloo help you find your first position after graduation?

Graduating from co-op program gave me a head start on my career and I landed my first job from a connection I made during my last work term. To explore other career opportunities outside of Canada, I worked in a large consultancy firm for my last work term in Hong Kong. I worked with an expert team on a financial system project which I found very interesting as I could utilize both of my accountancy and computer science knowledge. Best of all, that experience had landed me a job offer upon my graduation.

5. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done professionally since leaving Waterloo?

I was fortunate to have many great mentors and coaches throughout my career and I'm passionate about developing others. Though there isn't many disadvantages to female career development in Hong Kong, women always encounter more stress to have to balance their roles at home and at work. Feeling the urge to contribute back to society, I founded (together with a few female colleagues) the Women Network in my company five years ago with an objective to offer both personal and professional development opportunities to our female colleagues. The network has organized numerous interesting events and I had even took on the role as the Chair lady to further devote my time and passion to the topic.

6. What motivates you to volunteer?

My pride to be a Waterloo graduate is the key driver for me to volunteer. I was also touched by the group of passionate UWaterloo alumni who work so hard for the alumni association. Their commitment motivated me to volunteer.

7. Why do you choose to donate your time to Waterloo?

I believe that Waterloo deserves a lot more credit than it currently is given, especially in Hong Kong. Majority of people in Hong Kong are not aware of the outstanding achievements of UWaterloo, which has limited the number of university applicants from Hong Kong. The reputation of UWaterloo is under-recognized in Hong Kong, which also poses a potential disadvantage to UWaterloo graduates on job hunting. By volunteering my time to Waterloo's activities, I hope to contribute my marketing expertise, to help build the UWaterloo brand, and take it to the next level. I want to ensure that people recognize how great an establishment UWaterloo is.

8. What would you tell others about the positive benefits of volunteering?

Having the opportunity to meet so many interesting and renowned UWaterloo staff, faculty, and alumni is one great benefits of volunteering. Working with such a passionate group of alumni, volunteering becomes a fun time, spent with friends who share the same value as you!

9. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Would like to encourage all UW alumni in Hong Kong to join the UW alumni chapter and be proud of being an UWaterloo graduate!

From L to R Mei Ng, Alan Fok, Chef and Server, Stephen M. Watt, Raine Pan and Terence Ip

What Waterloo volunteer opportunities have you participated in?

• J. W. Graham Medal (Selection Committee Member)
• Technovation (mentor)
• #WeBelongInTech – Saluting the Female Trailblazer (speaker)
• professional mentorship
• also volunteers time with groups such as Microsoft Youthspark, TECDE, and the Founder Institute
• She is a strong advocate for women in technology and actively encourages youth to pursue careers in STEM.

Get to know Vicki...

1. Why did you choose Waterloo and the Faculty of Math?

My family actually has a history in computer science, with my grandfather being a pioneer in the industry and my father, aunt and uncle spending time in the industry as well. Despite this, I wasn't sure I wanted anything to do with computers! Luckily in high school I took a programming course and fell in love with it.

Coming out of high school, I knew for sure that I wanted to study computer science in university. So I looked around at Canadian universities, at who had the best program and best reputation, and Waterloo was the hands-down winner. I was also very interested in the co-op program, which turned out to be a great choice.

2. Did you participate in campus and extracurricular activities? If so, which ones?

I didn't participate too much, although I have fond memories of all of the frosh activities! I really wish there had been a group like Women in Computer Science (WiCS) when I was there.

3. What’s your favourite Waterloo memory?

I'm not sure I could pick just one. I loved the classes (I'm a nerd!) and had some great profs, amazing friends. If I had to pick one, reading outdoors on campus during the summer term was one of my favourites.

4. How did your experience at Waterloo help you find your first position after graduation?

Waterloo absolutely helped me, in a number of ways. The co-op program gave me an amazing resume (and some full-time job offers!), the school work and on-the-job training gave me an excellent background to perform on the job and adapt to any situation. And of course, just the fact of listing Waterloo Mathematics on my resume gave me a leg up. I still proudly wear my waterloo hoodie and brag about the program.

5. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done professionally since leaving Waterloo?

Honestly, anything I've done in the last 10 years co-founding and building Iversoft has been interesting. We started out with humble beginnings in our dining room, figuring out how to build iPhone apps just after the app store launched, and have built Iversoft into a thriving 40-person tech consultancy, with an amazing portfolio of clients.

6. What motivates you to volunteer?

One of my main inspirations for volunteering is to help people see some of the joy that I've gotten out of my career as a computer scientist and an entrepreneur, in the hopes that they will love it as much as I do. I especially like volunteering my time to teaching young females to code, or pursue studies in STEM, as well as coaching aspiring entrepreneurs.

7. Why do you choose to donate your time to Waterloo?

I've volunteered my time to speak at Waterloo events a number of times, discussing my experiences as a female entrepreneur and computer scientist, in the hopes of inspiring others. I especially like some of the initiatives that Waterloo has for getting young females involved in computer science, math, and other STEM fields.

I am also a member of the JW Graham Medal selection committee, of which I was a recipient in 2016 (don't worry, I joined the selection committee AFTER winning!) I love the spirit of this award, in celebrating the characteristics of Wes Graham, including entrepreneurship, leadership and innovation. It's fantastic seeing and celebrating Waterloo graduates who are truly amazing in their field.

8. What would you tell others about the positive benefits of volunteering?

Volunteering your time is not a selfless act! By that I mean, yes you are giving your time to benefit others, but what you get in return, the feeling of making a difference and helping people pays back dividends that far exceed the effort you put in. Pro tip: I also secretly use it as a networking opportunity with other business owners and people in a position to give back!

What Waterloo volunteer opportunities have you participated in?:

• Hack the North - Logistics Backend
• StarterHacks - Logistics
• Mathsoc - First Year Rep Council
• Math Orientation - Devisor Orientation Leader
• UW Hip Hop
• Queer++ - Founder
• Tech+ - Mentor

Get to know Kristy...

1. Why did you choose Waterloo and the Faculty of Math?

Like many Computer Science students, in high school, I took programming class thinking it had something to do with video games. I got hooked on the interesting and unique challenges that can be overcome with technology, and luckily had older friends who went to Waterloo for Math and Computer Science. Learning about the innovation-driven, competitive atmosphere at the Faculty of Math got me so excited, and the course offerings were so interesting. It is a great pleasure to learn unique subjects from such talented faculty.

2. What campus and extracurricular activities do you participate in?

Queer++ has been my main focus as of late. Queer++ is an organization aiming to empower LGBTQ+ students in the Faculty of Math, and introduce a discourse on campus of the intersection of queer issues and tech. I also enjoy UW Hip Hop when I get the chance to!

3. What’s your favourite Waterloo memory so far?

There are so many great memories! It's hard to choose a favourite, but the first one at the top of mind was after Math Orientation week. At our last event, we had many trays of cupcakes and cookies untouched, and some friends and I wandered around campus handing out the snacks. It was so fun, and really brightened up people's day.

4. What motivates you to volunteer?

It warms my heart when my hard work pays off and helps someone in my community. I was quite a slacker in highschool and didn't do much volunteering until I decided to start a Hackathon. Planning and executing the event was so much work, but really paid off when I saw the participants live the joy of learning and building something new. Ever since then, volunteering became addicting for me. My favorite part is seeing the positive improvements I can make in my community.

5. Why do you choose to donate your time to Waterloo?

Waterloo is a special place for the students who inhabit it - as it should be. It is an amazing testing ground for new ideas and projects that students want to see changes happen in their community. I want to test run ideas and projects to see how they impact their communities - through both compartmentalized projects in large organizations like Hack the North, and brand new organizations like Queer++. I'm also motivated to volunteer to grow Waterloo's community, and to pay it forward to the school and students that have given me so much.

6. What would you tell others about the positive benefits of volunteering?

If you want to see a change in your community or start something new, now is always the time! The barriers to accomplishing any fleeting goal are thin. And forgive my cheesiness, but there's no feeling better than giving back to your community.

7. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just because the world is standing still with the COVID19 situation, doesn't mean you can't volunteer! Many school organizations, especially tech related organizations like Blueprint or Hack the North, can operate remotely. It's also a great way to stay connected during these potentially lonely times.

What Waterloo volunteer opportunities have you participated in?

• Inaugural FIRST Robotics Waterloo Fundraising Committee
• 2003-2008 Advisory Committee Member for Wireless Research Chair (Faculty of Engineering)
• 2014-present Board of Governors

Get to know Dave...

1.Why did you choose Waterloo and the Faculty of Math?

My high school math teachers made math fun, and I participated in the Waterloo math contests. In Grade 12, my school received a few Radio Shack TRS-80 computers so I played around with Basic computer language. Mathematics was my favourite subject, and these home computers seemed to show promise, and in Grade 13, I applied to Math, and was happy to get offered a scholarship and get into my first-choice residence at St. Jerome’s.

2. Did you participate in campus and extracurricular activities? If so, which ones?

Pack-Move-Unpack (co-op)

Unpack, School, Pack-Move-Unpack, Work, Pack-Move-Unpack, School (repeat 5 more times)

3. What’s your favourite Waterloo memory?

My roommates—both at school and on work terms. I remember moving into St. Jerome’s residence. I was in Basement Room 6. We were all in the same boat, and we all bonded. My first roommate was Alfred Menezes, who is now a professor of cryptography in the Faculty of Mathematics. Every so often, I will see him out on walks in Uptown Waterloo.

After my first work term at IBM, I ended up sharing a townhouse with electrical engineers who I met during the term. I mention that they are Engineers, as I recall being awoken around 2 AM one morning to dozens of people shouting with glee on the main floor. As I walked downstairs, I discovered the three-storey tall pink tie had been claimed from the Math building! I was sworn to secrecy but I figure the statute of limitations is now over.

4. How did your experience at Waterloo help you find your first position after graduation?

After six work terms at IBM, I readily accepted a role with IBM in 1988. However, my partner Jan (also BMath ’88) had over a dozen job offers, including one at one of Waterloo’s first tech startups, WATCOM (now SAP) founded by Professor Wes Graham. We were engaged a few months later, so we had three choices: commute; Toronto; or Waterloo. Waterloo was the obvious choice so a job search ensued for me and I was proud to join Software AG in Cambridge, a great family-run company.

5. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done professionally since leaving Waterloo?

There is never a dull moment as mayor. After many great years at Research In Motion after the launch of the BlackBerry, I became Mayor of the City of Waterloo in 2014 just as we were about the break ground on our largest infrastructure project ever, the construction of the ION light rail transit system. The 19km of construction was a massive disruption for three years. Every week presented something new, including the discovery of a timber “corduroy road” dating back to 1850 in Uptown Waterloo when our village population would have been around 200 citizens!

6. What motivates you to volunteer?

I believe that everyone should help out in a way that is meaningful to them. Volunteering makes you part of the team. In my thirties, I started helping out as team manager for our boys’ hockey teams. Volunteering is an eye-opening learning experience. In 2003 I joined the KW Community Foundation’s Grants Committee. Over the years I was able to review about 200 requests from local non-profits that demonstrate the need, and opportunity, in our barn-raising community. Volunteering hones your leadership skills and builds your network. Serving on the Boards of KW Community Foundation, Communitech, KW Chamber of Commerce was an immersive experience with hundreds of local executives over more than a decade.

7. Why do you choose to donate your time to Waterloo?

Waterloo has been a leading-edge university since opening in 1957. (On a side note: my brother started in Biology at UW in 1964, six weeks after I was born, and he carved my name in a desk during a lecture, later telling me to go to UW and find that desk!)

However, Waterloo did not get there by resting on its laurels. It stays leading-edge by never standing still. I am proud to be part of the Board of Governors to play a part and work with the great leadership at the university.

8. Is there anything else you would like to add?

I fully credit my volunteerism for giving me the community understanding and background that is essential in my role as mayor. I encourage students to befriend me on LinkedIn, as they’ll instantly have over 5000 ‘2^nd connections’.

What Waterloo volunteer opportunities have you participated in?

• International Women's Day Pacesetters Forum
• Speed mentoring
• Technovation
• Women in STEM panel

Get to know Sasha...

1. Why did you choose Waterloo and the Faculty of Math?

It’s funny to think back on this! My last years of high school in Trinidad were focused on my one goal of getting into the University of Waterloo’s Math program! Waterloo’s reputation precedes itself, even in my small Caribbean country. I always knew that I wanted to be in Math, it is what comes naturally to me and even today I cannot see myself in another field! I live the saying that you don't work a day in your life if you enjoy what you do. I thank my father for this, as he always encouraged me to go where my passion lies. He even helped me fill out my application to Waterloo!

2. Did you participate in campus and extracurricular activities? If so, which ones?

I was a part of the Lego Initiative Club and enjoyed building to-scale replicas of our campus buildings out of Lego. Building E5 was especially difficult, there was a lot of glass panes!

3. What’s your favourite Waterloo memory?

Moving into MKV in my first year. My roommate, Katy, was randomly assigned to me and I can only thank Waterloo for giving me a lifetime friend. We are friends today, and Katy even flew to Chicago for my wedding!

It was inspiring seeing so many students getting dropped off by their families, and being introduced to a diverse crowd from all over the world. I remember the feeling of anxiety mixed with happiness to kick off my next few years as a Waterloo student.

4. How did your experience at Waterloo help you find your first position after graduation?

I started my first position in May right after graduating. The co-op program taught me how to be professional and a hard worker, and prepared me for challenges in the workplace. I interviewed with confidence, and was excited to start putting what I learned in action.

5. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done professionally since leaving Waterloo?

My data science team recently built an algorithm that switches out products in our Cineplex theatre’s menu boards to products that are more relevant to the demographic in front of it. We target and trigger content intelligently with machine learning, to ultimately lead to high spend by the consumer. I always remember my Waterloo days as I find myself reverting to my statistics background to ensure we design our experiment appropriately.

6. What motivates you to volunteer?

I want to be for young women, what I needed when I was younger.

7. Why do you choose to donate your time to Waterloo?

I didn’t grow up with a lot of technology and having a female mentor in data science was not possible in Trinidad when I was younger. Now, I want to make sure that young women who come from a similar background, can ask me the personal questions they have to align their career. I also use this time to amplify young women who show a strong interest in data science and help them get started.

8. What would you tell others about the positive benefits of volunteering?

Meeting young women who have a drive to succeed only inspires you more. Now, meeting young women from Waterloo’s Math Faculty is a wonderful experience. You will be challenged, inspired and leave a better person than you came in!

Kevin Hare, Interim Dean, Faculty of Mathematics, with the Mathematics Advancement team.

L to R, back row: Jen Arseneault, Alexandra Lippert, Katie McMullen, Dean Hare, Chef Nicole, Christina Young, Lauren Hartman, Kristine McGlynn
L to R, front row: Pratyusha Varma, Candace Harrington, Melissa McNaughton, Crystal Cooper

What Waterloo volunteer opportunities have you participated in?

• Math Endowment Fund
• President of the Pure Math Club (twice)
• Mathletics Directors for MATHSOC (only once, because I was too good at my job and spent too much money)
• President of the Slavic Society (long and not very interesting story)

Get to know Kevin...

1. Why did you choose Waterloo and the Faculty of Math?

When I was in high school, I was writing all the math competitions, so I knew about Waterloo. I have no idea what my second and third choice were. I just sort of picked them randomly because I had already decided I wanted to go to Waterloo. My parents informed me that I wasn't allowed to go to Toronto. We lived Mississauga and they wanted me out of the house.

2. What’s your favourite Waterloo memory?

I was on the University’s ultimate frisbee team. One year, we got Nortel to fund our tournament. Nortel sent us a box of 100 promotional frisbees, but they didn’t arrive until a week after the tournament, so we couldn't give them out. We wanted to do something with them, so we set up in the hallway outside the comfy lounge and the CnD and started a frisbee fight. In retrospect, it probably wasn't a good idea, but it was certainly memorable.

3. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done professionally since leaving Waterloo?

When I was a grad student at Simon Fraser, I became the chief negotiator for my TA union. I took over the role after the previous one had a nervous breakdown. We went right into mediation. The experience actually made the PhD defense much easier, because your committee, unlike the administration’s bargaining team, actually wants you to succeed.

4. What motivates you to be a volunteer?

I have the time and energy—and I can't say no, as well as I should.

5. What would you tell others about the positive benefits of volunteering?

You meet a lot of awesome, like-minded people and it is very fun and rewarding. Not everyone has the time and energy for it. Some would rather just donate. That’s fine—everyone has to choose their own way.