Name: Kimberley Paradis
Program: Computer Engineering
Degree you are studying toward: BASc in Computer Engineering, Engineering Management Option
Expected year of graduation: 2021
Institution: University of Ottawa
Email: Send Email
Fun Facts About Me
If your best friend had to describe you in 10 words or less, what would they say?:“Knowledgeable, Driven, Accommodating, Versatile, Understanding, Experienced, Resilient, Dedicated, Pleasant, Powerful”
Share one fun fact about yourself: My first job in University was teaching mermaid lessons!
What do you want to accomplish in the next 10 years?: I’d love to start using my engineering knowledge to increase accessibility in the legal field.
Profile Questions
Why did you choose your program of study?: I started university in an Honors Physics program. In my first semester, I was required to take a programming course and I immediately fell in love. I didn’t decide whether I wanted to transfer into Computer Science or Computer Engineering until a few months later, when I worked at a STEM outreach program. I realized I loved robotics just as much as programming - so I chose to transfer into Computer Engineering where I could study both hardware and software.
What has been your favourite course (in Engineering) and why?: My favorite course was Design of User Interfaces. It introduced me to the creative side of my degree, where I was able to utilize graphic design skills I had developed over the years. It also helped shape my understanding of the ways in which psychology impacts our use of technology. This course was an elective for me so I am very glad that I branched out and decided to take it!
What has been the best part of your Engineering education to date?: In my first year of engineering, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. There is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental illnesses and it made me doubt myself a lot. Over the years, I developed the proper tools to succeed in school and at work and I have spent the last year advocating for accessibility in the field of engineering. I consider that to be the best part of my engineering education because it allowed me to learn so many things about myself. I believe I will be a more caring and empathetic engineer because of it.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?: After graduation, I hope to pursue a law degree. In the future, I would love to work at the intersection of law and technology.