Welcome to Indigenous Futures in Engineering, Queen's University
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Brielle Thorsen
Nation:
Saddle Lake Cree Nation
School attending:
Graduation:
2020
When I first heard about engineering:
My father is an engineer, so from a young age I always had an idea of what engineering was and was interested in pursuing it as a career path!
Why I chose my school and program:
Since a young age, I have always loved science and mathematics, so engineering was a natural fit for me. I chose Queen's for many reasons; they have a strong engineering program, great resources for Indigenous students and amazing school spirit.
I chose applied mathematics and mechanical engineering because I really enjoyed the mathematics courses in first year, and was not really interested in teh materials side of mechanical engineering.
What I like most about engineering:
I love engineering for many reasons! Studying engineering has given me the confidence to tackle challenging problems. It is really awesome to be able to design and create solutions for issues you are passionate about.
Where you will find me outside of classes:
When I am not in the classroom you probably will not be able to find me... I like to keep busy whether it is coaching Special Olympics swim club, on a conference call with the American Indian Science and Engineering Society or working with Queen's Engineers Without Borders Reconcili-ACTION team. I also try to make time to get to yoga or Crossfit a few times a week!
My inspiration:
My biggest source of inspiration is my family. I am so grateful to have such amazing mentors; my dad graduated with his MBA when I was nine after a period of working full time and taking night classes while also raising my sister and I! I hope to be half the person (and engineer) he is one day. My grandpa is also a great source of inspiration to me, his positivity and perserverance is unparalled. I also have so many strong women in my life, my mother whom was the first generation in her family to get a post-secondary education, my aunt Chantelle who does amazing work for our people, my fisty little sister and my amazing grandmothers and kokums who continue to break barriers in every space they walk in to.