SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
McMaster University is located in Hamilton, and comprises 57 buildings, 122 programs, and over 21 500 students [1]. It was first established in the year 1887 and is split into six different academic facilities: Degroote School of Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science [2] . They’re known as the McMaster Marauders with their mascot named “Mac the Marauder.” The institution is home to over 300 student organizations and clubs, however, they do not recognize any fraternities or sororities [2]. Their main academic policy is known as the “McMaster Model,” which focuses on a student-centred, problem-based, interdisciplinary approach to learning which has been used since the 1960s [2]. Only 3700 students live in twelve on-campus residences with a range of building sizes and dormitory styles [1]. Finally, McMaster University is a member of a group of research intensive Canadian universities known as the U15 [2].
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
McMaster University is located in Hamilton, and comprises 57 buildings, 122 programs, and over 21 500 students [1]. It was first established in the year 1887 and is split into six different academic facilities: Degroote School of Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science [2] . They’re known as the McMaster Marauders with their mascot named “Mac the Marauder.” The institution is home to over 300 student organizations and clubs, however, they do not recognize any fraternities or sororities [2]. Their main academic policy is known as the “McMaster Model,” which focuses on a student-centred, problem-based, interdisciplinary approach to learning which has been used since the 1960s [2]. Only 3700 students live in twelve on-campus residences with a range of building sizes and dormitory styles [1]. Finally, McMaster University is a member of a group of research intensive Canadian universities known as the U15 [2].
Check out McMaster's official socials...
RA
NK
IN
GS
#
72
72
IN THE WORLD
#
4
4
IN CANADA
According to the 2020 Times Higher Education World University Rankings
Check out McMaster's official socials...
RA
NK
IN
GS
#
72
72
IN THE WORLD
#
4
4
IN CANADA
According to the 2020 Times Higher Education World University Rankings
1
Why did you choose your program? What makes it unique to you?
I am currently doing a double major in Statistics and Mathematics at the University of Toronto. The main reason why I am choosing this program is that I have a genuine interest in analyzing data, gaining insights from the data while predicting the future from the results. When I was in high school, I was curious about how videos from YouTube and Instagram tailored towards my interest based on content I viewed. Through research, I found that by using the apps, the data is collected, and algorithms process these data to enrich user experience. In addition to this, the
University of Toronto has a high rank of Statistic and Mathematics with a great global reputation, by locating at Toronto, it also provides us with a great opportunity of networking and other social events.
3
JUICY
QUESTIONS
For a Statistics & Mathematics Double Major Student...
4
How would you describe the workload and work-life balance?
Here is a breakdown analogy of a typical university student life, which divided a student's university life into three parts: “Grades”, “Sleep”, and “Social life”. you always need to choose two out of three to show a good performance. I would say This pattern perfectly describes my
uni life. I would say the workload is under moderation. Instead of going to lectures, I usually spend roughly 3-4 hours per day on doing homework or assignments. However, when it comes
to the week of tests or exams, I definitely have to give up some sleeping or social time to get more work done. You will see that during the midterm or final period, the library is usually packed. On the other hand, GPA is not the only thing we should focus on during university, it is also crucial to explore the community. It is always a good idea to join a couple of student clubs or sports teams. Last but not least, it is totally doable if you want to work part-time. Just one thing to keep in mind, the cost of failing a course is way higher than the profit of working part-time a week, so maybe consider taking a week off before the test to get good preparation of it.
How would you describe your first year at UofT?
In my perspective, my first-year experience is much more colourful than I expected. Starting with Frosh before school starts (which is the welcome orientation for all incoming first-year students), it was a great time to meet new faces and make friends with classmates. Since I was living in the residence, there were dozens of interesting events such as Karaoke Night, movie night and so on. In terms of the academic part, fortunately, all the professors I came across are all very nice, questions were the most welcomed and they answered very patiently. There were also study groups run by senior students that made my life easier. There was also one thing that was challenging for me in my first year, which would be the alternation of the mindset, It is vital to change your mindset quickly from enjoying the summer vacation to school ready in order to
follow along with the schoolwork. I personally believe School work is still at the primary place, so don’t let other things district you too much.
2
What is some advice you would give high school students when applying to your program?
I will share two pieces of advice that I wish someone would have told me when I was in High school. Firstly, actively particpate in extracurricular events. Though academics is important,
universities also see extracurricular activities as a deciding factor upon your application. Participating in events that either show your strengths or demonstrate your leadership will strengthen your personal profile or video interviews. Secondly, getting first-hand insight is always important, try your best to know your target programs and schools as detailed as possible. Furthermore, build connections and share information with students who are going to the same program as you, and attend school fairs for future students. Last but not least, have a good understanding of the program and correlated courses that you will be taking. Think twice before applying.
A very special thank you to our interviewee...
ANDREW CHEN
Hey guys! My name is Andrew Chen, and I am currently third year student double majoring in
Statistics and Mathematics at University of Toronto. I am willing to help other students about
any questions regarding to UofT/Programme/UniLife. Please feel free to reach out to me
through LinkedIn if you have any inquiries. Good luck on the application!