Final thoughts and advice

Wow, are we really getting to our last blog post? Time really flew by, didn't it! Thank you so much for reading and (hopefully) enjoying my blogs.  I’ve decided to save my two most important pieces of advice for those who have made it through.

It’s ok not to feel ok.  Pursuing an Engineering Degree is one of the most difficult degrees to obtain, and it takes up more credits than an average program to complete. Being here is meant to challenge you and test your perseverance. It’s normal for you to feel overwhelmed, confused, and/or stressed! And I guarantee you won't be the first or the last person to feel this way. It’s ok if you cry about your courses. It’s ok if you’re just plain frustrated with your professors or if you don’t like your classes. The best way to get through these is to communicate. Vent to your friends, or share your concerns with a professor, TA, or counselor.  When I was taking six courses, I’ve been through all of the above emotions and more. Expressing my frame of mind towards others didn’t completely solve all my problems, but it did feel like a weight off my back. If you are having trouble with any of your courses, try to follow my previous blogs below, and if your budget allows, I would recommend also finding a tutor (either from SFU or externally) outside office hours.  

Most importantly, this is your time to shine! Choosing to go into SEE is a great choice because it is a newer accredited engineering program at SFU and in Canada with only two undergraduates graduating thus far. You will be part of a large group of passionate and motivated students that will carve out the capabilities of this program, and because of that, the faculty here wants you to succeed. Being in a smaller program, and therefore a smaller class, will help foster a good relationship with your professors and peers while getting more personalized help in your classes. In addition, having a close relationship to the faculty as a result of having smaller classes can open up to many different opportunities you may not see at bigger schools. 

All in all, you’ve got this! I have a feeling that you will have a bright and successful future in SEE, and if not SEE, wherever you go next. I wish you the very best in your next/current steps as a university student!