I grew up surrounded by technology. It kept me entertained and productive. I became amused by how technology largely influenced my life by making it more convenient. I adapted a mindset to question how things work.

I decided to enroll in the Computer Engineering Technology program at Seneca because I wanted to further my interest in technology related to computers. People largely depend on computers to do a number of things such as communicating with others, entertainment, managing work, shopping, sending money and so on.

I yearned to gain an understanding on how technology works through my Seneca program so I can help facilitate this exciting technological revolution.

My experience at Seneca was unforgettable and phenomenal. At the college, class sizes were smaller, which allowed for more interaction between classmates and professors. My professors were readily available to answer my questions or give me feedback on my work.

The class environment was respectful as my professors encouraged my classmates to freely share their ideas without being put down. My learning experience was enhanced when there was a meaningful discussion of ideas happening in class.

There were moments where an amazing idea was brought up by one of my classmates that I had never thought of. Seneca provided a respectful and safe environment for everyone.

Proudly representing Seneca for provincial and national competitions was my most memorable experience. I had the opportunity to compete in a skilled trades competition in the electronics category. I spent many months outside of class training one-on-one with my professor for the competition.

As a result, I was placed in the top three spots for every competition I competed in! I won bronze in 2019 and silver in 2021 for provincials in the Skills Ontario Competition, and gold in 2021 for nationals in the Skills Canada Competition.

Being able to share my achievement and spread Seneca’s name all over Ontario and Canada made me proud. I want to tell everyone that Seneca is a wonderful school, and you will regret not joining it.

I joined a variety of extracurriculars such as running in the cross-country varsity team, training for the skilled trades competition in electronics, working as a peer tutor for students and working as a student lab assistant to maintain and repair any issues in the computer, electronic and motor labs.

I gained many life skills that I can take with me for my future, such as persevering when I encountered challenges, taking the time to recognize small achievements as I accomplish larger goals, understanding people’s needs and being responsible for tasks I was assigned for.  

These skills made me a better person as I learned to tackle challenges without giving up, and formed meaningful relationships with others, while being accountable for my actions.

I wanted to further my education in what I am passionate about. I gained practical knowledge from my Computer Engineering Technology diploma, but I wanted to gain the theoretical knowledge required to understand what happens behind the scenes or how technology operates with a degree.

Before I enrolled in my Seneca program, I checked the program webpage on the Seneca website for details. While visiting the program webpage, I learned about the pathways available from my program to different colleges and universities.

My Seneca diploma gave me the practical skills that I could build on when I decided to pursue my degree program at McMaster. I learned to code, set up computers and troubleshoot issues. My degree program builds on these concepts and goes more in-depth on the theoretical skills.

I also learned to manage responsibilities as a post-secondary student. After completing my three-year advanced diploma, I was already familiar with the process of applying for a post-secondary program, planning and enrolling in my courses, paying school fees and managing school deadlines. I felt I was well prepared in my degree program as there were no surprises.

The transition from a diploma to a degree was smooth. The diploma gave me the necessary skills that served as a prerequisite when I moved on to a degree. I was able to transfer two years’ worth of college credits toward my current degree program.

Since my degree program is four years, I had the first two years waived and have two more years to complete. Seneca and McMaster’s pathway programs are already established, so transferring my credits was not an issue.

The main difference between a diploma and a degree is that my degree program is completely virtual. Even though this gave me the flexibility to study anywhere and save time commuting, it is also challenging. I am unable to collaborate with classmates and professors in-person.

However, as a solution, I participated in group work and set up virtual meetings outside of class hours to better know my classmates and professors.

The advantage of having both a diploma and a degree is to gain theoretical knowledge on top of practical knowledge and open more doors for future career opportunities. My resumé will stand out in terms of the variety of skills and qualifications I have obtained from my education.

When you choose a degree, choose a program that you are passionate about. Research what the degree offers on the school webpage. Once you have chosen your degree, ensure that you choose the prerequisite courses first, so you do not encounter scheduling conflicts in later semesters.

Moreover, do not feel pressured to take all six courses in one semester. There is nothing wrong with taking less than six courses and learning at your own pace. When you do so, you can fully learn the course concepts and make extra time for part-time work and personal life.

Stay on top of due dates for quizzes, tests, exams, assignments, and projects. School is the utmost priority to learn and get things done. Especially when you are studying as a full-time student, assessments can pile up quickly from multiple courses. Always have an agenda ready so you can organize deadlines and set reminders, so you do not forget them.

Also, do not forget to make time for some fun in your life by spending time with your family and friends and pursuing your hobbies. Prioritizing your personal life is a good way to recharge. A balanced life is important for mental health. Set priorities and boundaries between school, work and life to maintain that balance.

I am currently a full-time student studying Software Engineering Technology at McMaster University. During my free time, I go for a walk or a bike ride, take pictures and repair any broken electronics.

My plan for the short-term is to focus on completing my degree.

My plan for the long-term is to pursue a career that is valuable to me and where I can enjoy working and making meaningful contributions. I would like to find a career where I can utilize what I have learned and empower society.

I am open to pursuing any career in information technology where I can manage computers, networks and cybersecurity policies. It is exciting to be a part of the technological revolution and introduce life-changing technologies to society.

Perhaps one day, I can return to Seneca and work for the Information Technology Services department, or work as a lab technician or a professor for the School of Electronics & Mechanical Engineering Technology.

The possibilities are limitless. It would a great honour to help empower students and offer society the skills to advance further in life.