PART A: Class Lecture on GPA: A lecture topic covered in our Engg100 course was the concept of GPA. Tyson Lazaruk, our instructor, imparted vital information pertaining to the Grade Point Average (GPA). The lesson started off with a hands-on demonstration of how to calculate GPA, which helped to clarify the intricacy of this numerical measure. My comprehension of the mechanics of grading, particularly the subtle effects of pass/fail classifications, has deepened. The impact of class curves on grades was also covered in the lecture. I found that the lecture's subject about dropping a course struck a particular chord with me. Our lecturer talked about situations in which giving up could be a wise move while separating it from the consequences of giving up. This useful information transcends the traditional interpretation of GPA and gives me the ability to make well-informed judgments on my academic path. All things considered, the talk improved my understanding of the GPA system and offered valuable perspectives for overcoming the obstacles associated with pursuing higher education. As I continue my study, the useful insights I've received will be extremely beneficial in ensuring that I approach both my schoolwork and the larger picture of higher education with a clear and educated attitude. Workshop on Selecting Discipline: I vividly recall the intriguing debate on the many engineering disciplines and their career prospects in the online lecture titled "How Does Getting into a Discipline Work?" centered on joining the engineering sector . My understanding of the many engineering specialties has increased as a result of the seminar, which also gave me insightful knowledge about the unique career possibilities connected to each field. The inclusion of guest speakers from various technical specialties who discussed their own experiences and travels struck a chord with me. Getting personal stories from experts in different technical fields made the theoretical idea of selecting a specialization tangible. The visitors related personal stories on how they made decisions, the difficulties they encountered, and the satisfaction they had from pursuing their chosen fields of study. This personalized story approach struck a deep chord with me because it gave a human perspective on a decision that may sometimes feel overwhelming. My personal goals have been greatly influenced by my understanding of the various experiences and career opportunities within each engineering specialty. I am now more enthusiastic about pursuing a career in engineering due to the seminar's emphasis on real-world experiences, the presenters' candid sharing of their daily work, and the broader significance of their chosen technical professions. It has given me more purpose and direction as I navigate the complex world of engineering and has made it easier for me to recognize that picking a certain area isn't as strange as it may appear. PART B One thing that I am exceptionally proud of this semester is my capacity to acclimatise and surmount obstacles in my capacity as an international student. Despite the initial challenges of adjusting to university life and the rigorous engineering programme, I eventually regained my composure. In group assignments where effective collaboration was critical, I performed exceptionally well. By sharing my expertise and gaining knowledge from my peers, I have not only improved my academic performance but also developed a more comprehensive understanding of engineering principles. Furthermore, I effectively managed an assortment of extracurricular engagements, thereby showcasing my dedication to comprehensive individual growth. If I had the opportunity to offer guidance to my past self at the start of the semester, I would strongly recommend prioritising the cultivation of skills right from the outset. Although coursework is undeniably significant, cultivating a comprehensive range of abilities is as vital for achieving success in the engineering programme and beyond. Initially, I would motivate myself to ascertain the essential technical proficiencies needed for my area of study and actively work towards refining them. Regularly allocating time each week to practise and use various skills, such as programming languages, CAD software, or laboratory methods, is crucial. Exploring supplementary online courses, workshops, or extracurricular projects that are in line with these abilities can offer significant practical experience. Furthermore, I would underscore the importance of soft skills, such as effective communication, collaborative cooperation, and efficient time management. These abilities are frequently undervalued yet are crucial for achieving success in both academic and professional contexts. Engaging in group projects, joining groups or organisations, and assuming leadership positions may greatly enhance the acquisition of these crucial interpersonal skills. I would also recommend myself to actively seek out possibilities for multidisciplinary study. Engineering is a dynamic domain that frequently necessitates collaboration across other disciplines. Participating in projects or activities beyond the confines of my degree can expand my repertoire of skills and improve my aptitude for problem-solving. Finally, I want to emphasise the significance of continuous learning throughout one's life. The initial semester marks the start of a voyage that necessitates ongoing adjustment to novel technology. Developing a mentality characterised by curiosity and actively keeping abreast of industry trends will guarantee my ability to adapt and maintain a competitive edge in the always changing area of engineering. Essentially, my recommendation is to see the first semester not only as an academic test but also as a chance to deliberately cultivate a wide range of skills that will be beneficial for my engineering profession.
