Growing up I was always curious about my father’s work and the ways in which he was making a difference with his projects. It inspired me to be more diligent in my math and science classes, and I quickly developed a deeper interest in engineering and problem solving.

 My path to engineering started earlier than I thought. I took a robotics summer course when I was a child, and it fueled my curiosity and my desire to explore programming and computer science. So, my interest for this subject was not made on a whim, it has been a slow burning process, one where a wide variety of events and many different people have been influential. But I can vividly think back to my lessons in that robotics course, and how that moment planted the seed that has been growing in me since then and is about to take shape in ways I could have never imagined as a child. 

My interest in engineering may have started when I was young, and my IGCSEs and IB courses sealed my choice. But my Extended Essay and the subject I picked to research has shed new light on how I feel about research and finding solutions to real problems. I chose a topic in Geography, and in just a few words I decided to explore light levels in Panama City and Barcelona and how they affect flight patterns of birds in the different regions. Researching and writing that particular paper has truly inspired me to pursue investigation, and to see the value of immersing myself in research. I now think of the research completed by others and ways in which I can improve upon it. Working on my Extended Essay has been one of the hardest projects I have had to complete thus far. There were many endless nights, and doubts about my ability to meet the high standards I set for myself, but it was all worth it. In the end, it confirmed my decision to pursue mechanical engineering and to engage in research opportunities when I eventually travel to Canada. So, hard as it may seem, my love for Geography and my experience in my Geography lessons is what ultimately solidified my passion for engineering. Thank you, Mr. Moore!

I am not sure what I will do after I graduate from university, but what excites me the most is the idea of all the options ahead of me. I know I will continue to be engaged, because I am not one to depend on external motivation to do my work, I know the value of dedication and the importance of pushing myself to do the work. There have been days when I lacked motivation, but luckily, I have taught myself the intricacies of dedication. Over the years, I have trained myself to appreciate the fact that I can do hard things. My parents have been an amazing source of inspiration; they have and continue to take risks and do courageous things. My mother’s passion for medicine is contagious and my father’s commitment to his team and his company are some of the many reasons I know I can be better. I admire, appreciate, and am forever grateful to my parents for the many sacrifices they have made to support me and my brother. 

I am most proud of my commitment to my extra-curricular activities, because the values they have instilled in me are what make me the person I am today. I know that what I have achieved in the classroom is important, but I value more what I have achieved outside the classroom. I am proud to see that my service efforts and my commitment to others have permeated my work in school. The CAS projects have been much more than a required portion of my IB Diploma, they are the reason I am a better friend, classmate, brother and son. I am proud to have been elected Head Prefect, and honored that my peers saw in me a role model for our school.  Looking back, I’m grateful for how my role as Head Prefect made me hone unique skills and build confidence in my ability as a leader. I certainly feel ready to face new challenges and to keep leading and learning with purpose.

I would not be the person I am today without my friends, they have molded me and I am grateful for their encouragement and support. This community has inspired me to be kind and giving, to know when to step up and when to step back. I hope to be remembered as someone who was always willing to help others and empower others to be their best. I leave you with this quote that has guided me throughout my life. 
“Motivation sets you up to launch, but dedication keeps you travelling.”

Alexey Takaev, deciding between University of British Columbia and University of Toronto in Mechanical Engineering