In high school, I was given the task of creating a battery-operated race car. Our first hurdle was learning how to use the modelling program SolidWorks, as well as a milling machine, a 3D printer and a welding machine. I did so by watching videos online and through trial-and-error. Our main obstacle was keeping in mind the aerodynamics and stress analysis of the car. Our first prototype did not withstand the pressure of the speed at which it was propelled, notably at the main pressure points of the chassis. After researching the assembly of race cars and the way each part is linked, I made the decision to reinforce these vulnerable areas by adding an additional block to the car, which after multiple trials was able to maintain the structure of the car while conserving its flexibility. I gained insight into the world of engineering and all its complexities, in which an initial concept goes through a process of designing, manufacturing, assembling, and testing to fi
nally get an end product.
I also carried out an internship at the sustainable architecture company GreenA Consultants. An aspect that intrigued me was the ability of these architectural engineers to design the structure of a building while simultaneously keeping in mind the aesthetic and sustainable aspects. I looked into one of their biggest projects, SingaporeΒs Changi Airport Terminal 4. I was fascinated by their ability to design an avant-garde building based fully on sustainable construction methodologies, notably the use of shaded double-glazed glass to reduce artificial lighting by allowing natural light and by limiting thermal transfers resulting in minimized air conditioning. This experience taught me to work with others while autonomously organizing myself in terms of a schedule, and improved my research, organization and presentation skills. I also deepened my knowledge on different aspects of construction and design which will be helpful in my studies.