Second-year ChemE student Angela Ye (ChemE 2T6) has been awarded one of two C.D. Howe Endowment Fund National Engineering Scholarships, which are bestowed annually to undergraduate students enrolled in a bachelor of engineering program in a Canadian university. The scholarships, valued at $7,500 Canadian per year, are awarded based on criteria such as academic performance, volunteer/community involvement, and/or extracurricular activities.
Ye channeled her childhood fascination with inventing and her high school lab experiences into her academic and career ambitions. Inspired by her mechanical engineer father and her quirky desire to look like a mad scientist, Ye is eager to apply her skills in biomedical and pharmaceutical engineering while exploring innovative solutions in her future career.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue chemical engineering?
My name is Angela and I was born and raised in Canada. I have a mechanical engineer father who showed me a lot of drawings and photos from work that got me interested in ‘inventing’ as a kid. As a result, I set my mind on becoming an engineer (modern-day inventors). I was inspired to pursue chemical engineering because of a pretty silly reason: during my first and only high school lab experience, I put on a lab coat, saw that I looked like a mad scientist and decided I wanted to keep looking like a mad scientist.
What motivated you to apply for this particular scholarship, and how do you think it will impact your academic and professional goals?
It was finals season when I received an email about this scholarship. As someone who doesn’t pass up an opportunity to alleviate my family’s financial burdens, I wrote up an application. When I was notified that I was selected for the scholarship, my goals shifted to become a little more ambitious. Instead of aiming to be average in my classes, I’m now going to aim to be above average. Instead of aiming to get a job after graduating, I’m now going to aim to get a job that I’ll enjoy. I believe self-confidence should not be founded on other’s opinions, but sometimes a little (slightly materialistic) nudge of encouragement can really push you to believe in yourself more.
What specific areas within chemical engineering are you most passionate about, and why?
I think I have a lot more to learn before I can truly determine what areas of chemical engineering I truly love but from previous experience, I know I like biology and organic chemistry. So I can see myself being really passionate about biomedical and pharmacy things.
Can you share a significant project or research experience you’ve had in your studies so far?
In high school, I was in a program that required students to write quite a few research reports. Those reports were not significant to society per se, as it was just a high school research project. However the experience of completing those reports definitely contributed to my ability to research, communicate professionally, and manage my time.
How do you balance your academic responsibilities with other aspects of your life, such as extracurricular activities or part-time work?
During my first year, I had minor roles in three student clubs. This year, I’ve taken on a couple of leadership positions within those clubs. For example, I’m one of the Community Projects Directors for Engineers Without Borders and the Advertising Director for Chem Club. I’ve learned that I can balance school, extracurriculars and my personal life if I work hard, play hard. I try to get most of my academic responsibilities done while I’m on campus to avoid distractions at home. I dedicate a couple of hours a week to get club stuff done (otherwise, I will procrastinate). I leave Sundays to clean my apartment and meal prep. All of this makes it possible for me to join my friends in spontaneous outings whenever I need a break!
Have you been involved in any organizations or groups related to chemical engineering, and if so, what roles have you taken on?
I was introduced to Chem Club through the mentorship program during my first year and learned more about what they do during the year through my class rep. This year, I’ve taken on the Advertising Director role where I market all of Chem Club’s events. This kind of ties back to the previous question: I consider the work I do for Chem Club as a break. I enjoy doing graphic design and making pretty posters. Whenever I’m feeling too stressed and need a breather, I just open Canva or Procreate and make a few sketches.
What challenges have you faced in your academic journey, and how have you overcome them?
A lot of the stress I’ve experienced during my academic journey stemmed from the fact that I was a perfectionist. I frequently felt like I was ‘overcommitting’ because I’d try to pursue everything to perfection. I’ve since learned (mostly from my mom) that it’s ok to deliver something that isn’t perfect as long as you try your best. That mindset has saved me a lot of stress, time and tears.
Do you have any mentors or professors who have significantly influenced your path in chemical engineering? If so, how?
My grade 12 English teacher was amazing and encouraged me to always aim high. My English teacher taught me that it’s ok to not follow the ‘traditional’ way of things. If you need to take a gap year, that’s ok. If you don’t go to post-secondary, that’s ok. Knowing that has allowed me to approach things more positively and less anxious. My CIV100 professor was also very cool. He showed me that being an engineering student isn’t just studying and school clubs. I showed him my classroom doodles and he showed a lot of support for my artistic endeavors.
What are your career aspirations after graduation, and how do you plan to use the knowledge and skills you’re gaining in chemical engineering?
My current plan is to work in industry. I like the idea of working with people from diverse educational backgrounds and the potential for that is higher in industry. I hope to use the knowledge and skills I gain in chemical engineering at UofT to a) contribute to meaningful advancements in whatever field I end up in, b) be part of an effective team environment, and c) enjoy career-related curveballs life decides to throw at me.