What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

Although my roots are in Edo State, Nigeria, I was born and raised in Port Harcourt, a city that played a significant role in shaping my upbringing and perspective. I decided to continue my post-secondary sducation in Canada but what brought me specifically to UPEI was the unique engineering program offered here. Fresh out of high school, the only thing I was sure of was that I wanted to study engineering but I had no idea what aspect of engineering I would like to focus on. The program offered at UPEI had just the right blend of what I had been looking for and didn’t know existed until I came here. 

What do you find unique and interesting about the Sustainable Design Engineering program?

What drew me to this program is its strong focus on designing solutions that are not only technically sound, but also socially and environmentally responsible. One of the things I find most unique about the program is how early we are exposed to hands-on, project-based learning. We don’t just learn theory; we apply it to real-world problems while considering sustainability, ethics, and community impact. Amongst all this, I treasure most of all the Independence we are given in design. I can vividly remember how in my first year we weren’t treated like fresh high school graduates but as of engineers of the future who had no limitations to what they could achieve.

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and UPEI faculty members?

I have received strong academic and personal support from faculty members who are approachable and genuinely invested in student success. UPEI wasn’t what I expected of a University but it was what I needed. Professors are open to questions, offer guidance beyond the classroom, and encourage growth rather than perfection alongside the students at the success center who are always willing to lend a hand and make each day just a bit easier for engineering students.

What opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

Being at UPEI gave me the confidence and space to step out of my comfort zone. I was able to join the Engineers Without Borders (EWB) UPEI Chapter and contribute in a meaningful way. Because of its supportive community, I didn’t feel intimidated to get involved or to lead. Instead, I felt encouraged to show up, share ideas, and grow. Through EWB, I found a community where my values around community impact were taken seriously, and where I felt like my voice mattered.

"I treasure most of all the Independence we are given in design. I can vividly remember how in my first year we weren’t treated like fresh high school graduates but as of engineers of the future who had no limitations to what they could achieve."

Alongside this, being part of the close-knit community at the Chaplaincy Centre as a member of the Canadian Catholic Students Association provided a strong sense of belonging. That welcoming environment offered connection, support, and balance, reinforcing the importance of community in my personal and leadership journey at UPEI.

What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

What makes UPEI unique is the community itself. The ability to sit in a class and ask a question and be heard easily; the ability to build relationships meaning full relationships that fosters growth. 

What would you tell a student considering UPEI and the Sustainable Design Engineering program?

I would tell them that UPEI is a great choice if they want more than just a degree. The Sustainable Design Engineering program challenges you to think critically, work collaboratively, and design with purpose. 

How do you feel UPEI is preparing you for your future?

UPEI has helped me in developing both social and leadership skips which would be an asset in any career path. Not only that but also in terms of connections and the people I have met here. UPEI has gone a long way in terms for helping me to build a network with people both off and on the Island. From the people I met at welcome week to Career fairs and conferences.