Thursday, October 20, 2011

Making the Right Transition (Daniela)

Hello there!

About two years ago, I was looking to the future. It was time to figure out my post-secondary life. And let me tell you, it is definitely not an easy task.

This past weekend, I was representing McMaster at the Ontario University Fair, and it definitely brought me back to the times of university applications.

Seeing all the exhibitions from Ontario universities and some schools outside the province as well, really puts into perspective that each school has a different atmosphere and is right for someone. So here it is. Some advice from someone who’s been through the gruelling process:

Pick the program and the school that is right for you! Don’t worry about university rankings, or what your parents say you should get into. University is expensive… why would you want to pay so much for something you’re not really interested in?

For example, Mac Eng is the PERFECT place for me because I am able to take technical engineering courses as well as other courses that peak my interest and I’m part of an awesome community with helpful people and a tonne of opportunities!

Good luck with your final year of high school!
Later days,

Daniela

Monday, October 3, 2011

And we're back! (Daniela)

Hello there!

Welcome to Hear it from Her! I bet you're wondering, "Who's the 'her'? My name is Daniela and I'm in my second year of Chemical Engineering and Society at McMaster University, and I have the honour and pleasure of writing for you this year. I like to do a lot of things in and around campus, and I hope to bring you some insights about life in Mac Eng!

Now that introductions are complete, I'd like to talk about one of my favourite times of the year: Back-to-School.

I know what you're thinking; "This girl is either insane or really enjoys buying stacks of paper and arrays of different coloured pens". But, there is a particular event, which concluded about a month ago, that combines different coloured coveralls, music, inflatables, and cheering to turn thousands of individuals into a family that deserves mention: Welcome Week.

I have been lucky enough to participate in Welcome Week two years in a row, once as a first year, and this time as a Frosh Controller, a representative for Engineering.

Coming in as a first year, it was an opportunity to get to know my school and faculty in the most exciting and engaging way possible! Cheering, games, meeting and building relationships with some amazing people! (I've been a camp counsellor for two summers, so naturally the outgoing nature of Welcome Week is right up my alley.) I know that Mac does welcomes well because I felt like I became a part of a new family. In fact, I didn't want Welcome Week to end.

This year, I was on the other side, trying to make sure that the new students coming in would start their University career feeling as comfortable as I did. I gotta say that I did not realize how much time and effort has to go into making a week awesome. Seriously, if you decide to come to Mac next Fall, you will not realize how much behind-the-scenes stuff goes on! But I digress. Although being a rep is totally different from being a first year, it was just as fun and just a rewarding. Indicators include: lost voice, sleep deprivation, new friends, and a constant smile on my face.

Here's some of my favourite stuff from Welcome Week 2011:

Favourite event:
GEK - Gulliver's Engineering Kickback
BBQ, music, swimming, rock wall, inflatables. 'Nuff said.

Memorable Moment:
Engineering students, new and old reciting the Oath at Faculty Fusion

Favourite Game:
Prom Date

Favourite Cheer(s):
McMaster Cheer: Maroon and Grey
Eng Cheer: Godiva


Anyways, I better cut myself off now! If you have any questions about Welcome Week or about Mac Eng, feel free to hit me up with a comment or an e-mail!

Later days,
Daniela