In Query
By PTC Podcast
In QueryMar 18, 2022
EP 0: Season 4 Kickoff w/ Sarmini, Shreeya, Lucy and Tianshu
Welcome to Season 4 of In Query. In this episode, our co-hosts Sarmini and Shreeya interview two members of Project Tech Careers: Head of Publications Lucy Hur and Tianshu Dai, our podcast Executive Producer.
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Careers
Website: https://www.projecttechcareers.com/
EP 3: Tech Entrepreneur at UofT
In episode 3 of season 3, our hosts talk with Vaib Logar(https://ca.linkedin.com/in/vaibhav-logar-197243200?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F), an entrepreneur who founded a tech startup called HypeAI, an AI platform meant to connect students connect with companies.
HypeAI: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/hype-innovate
Website: IG @projecttechconferences
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
Website: https://www.projecttechconferences.com/
EP 2: First Year Computer Science at UofT
In episode 2 of season 3, we hold an interview with a first-year computer science student at the University of Toronto.
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Careers
Website: https://www.projecttechcareers.com/
EP 1: Future of Business and Digitalization in the Workforce w/ Christopher and Jonathan
In episode 1 of Season 3, we discuss various topics in the field of business, accounting, and economics and dive deeper on the impact of technology in the industry. We are joined by Jonathan, a first-year student at Toronto Metropolitan University in the accounting and finance program, and Christopher, a first-year student at Wilfred Laurier University studying economics and finance.
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Careers
Website: https://www.projecttechcareers.com/
EP 0: Season 3 Trailer w/ Samskrithi and Shreeya
Welcome to Season 3 of In Query. In this episode, we discuss various topics with two leaders of PTC, Apollo Lin and Harry Qu.
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Careers
Website: https://www.projecttechcareers.com/
EP 10: SE @ UOttawa, High School Coops w/ Sean D'Souza
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss high school coops and the University of Ottawa with Sean D’Souza.
Sean is a Software Engineering Intern at Rippling, currently pursuing a BASc in Software Engineering with the Engineering Management and Entrepreneurship Option at the University of Ottawa. He grew up in Ottawa and went to Colonel By Secondary School where he completed the IB program. He has previously worked all across the software stack for a variety of companies such as CENX, Ericsson, and reNFT. In his spare time, he plays a variety of instruments and video games.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seendsouza/
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EP 8: Tips for Tech Interviews & PM @ Ericsson w/ Lewis Yu
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss Tech Interviews and Project Management.
Lewis is a developer at Ericsson Canada, focusing on cloud technologies and performance metric observability. He grew up in Ottawa and was admitted into UofT after high school for social sciences before he decided that that path was not for him and ended up transferring to Carleton's computer science co-op program which he graduated from in 2020. Although he's experienced a lot of roadblocks on his way to landing his first full-time job at Ericsson, he has found great joy in his work, especially when it comes to seeking student talent and hiring co-ops for his own team and being able to work alongside them while gaining fresh perspectives.
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EP 9: Recruiting, Dual Degree, and Case Competitions w/ Justin Zhang
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss Recruiting, Dual Degree, and Case Competitions.
Hey 👋, I’m a Computer Science and Business student at Western University/Ivey Business School going into my 5th and final year in September. Outside of my studies, I also have a background in design and videography. If there’s one word to describe me, I’d say it's “builder”. Through software engineering, business strategy, and design, I love bringing new things to life!
Professionally, I’ve had the opportunity to intern and wear many hats across Marketing, Software Engineering, and Product Management at firms including RBC, Shopify, and Meta/Facebook. For the rest of the summer, I’ll be moving out to Seattle and experiencing the West Coast for the first time!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinzhang000
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
EP 7: Machine Learning and Science Academy w/ Jessica Tang #TechDuringHighSchool
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss Machine Learning and Science Academy.
Jessica is a grade 12 student at Fraser Heights Secondary, concurrently taking computer science courses at a local university. Her passion for programming and artificial intelligence started growing when she started coding in grade 10. Jessica likes to channel her passion into projects, research, and contributions to the community! Outside of STEM, she loves songwriting, reading, and learning new musical instruments. Since today's youth makes up our future leaders, she believes it is crucial to encourage and nurture interest in computer science and AI. Jessica is always excited to work with teams towards amazing causes through experiences and collective visions for the field of AI and technology.
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
3:16 - Information about High School Program
5:06 - What does your schedule look like?
6:49 - Do you get to socialize and work with university students?
7:34 - Is the program challenging?
8:35 - Are there any admission requirements?
9:52 - Is this program offered at other schools in your city?
10:16 - How can students be admitted to the Science Academy?
10:52 - Do you have a favourite course?
11:47 - What are some extracurriculars that you partake in?
14:24 - What was your favourite event planned with the student council?
17:09 - How did you discover your interest in technology?
21:03 - Do you have any memorable projects?
24:41 - What was the favourite part of the project?
26:10 - What was the most challenging part of the project?
27:21 - What is A.I.?
30:18 - Is it difficult to find internships as a high school student?
34:50 - What type of project was it and how did you incorporate tech?
37:22 - What are neural networks?
38:43 - What were your biggest takeaways from this project?
40:23 - Do you have any plans to further your education?
41:32 - Would you say AI is something you would pursue in your professional career?
42:36 - What is your favourite thing about AI and machine learning?
44:22 - What is one piece of advice you would give to any student interested in tech?
45:51 - Conclusion & Outro
EP 6: Entrepreneurship, Telehealth Services and MBET at University of Waterloo w/ Rashi Jaising #TechFromSquareOne
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss entrepreneurship, healthcare technology and the Telehealth Industry.
Rashi is a master’s candidate at the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business at the University of Waterloo. Her research interests include social entrepreneurship and innovation, and strategy. She’s interested in people and organizations colliding to form new ideas and ways of thinking to drive social change. She is the founder of Bebaha Virtual HealthCare, a healthcare tech start-up focusing on women’s healthcare.
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Rashi’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashi-jaising/
Bebaha Website: https://bebaha.net/
Bebaha Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bebahavirtualhealthcare/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
1:24 - Could you tell us a little more about Bebaha Virtual HealthCare?
4:43 - Benefits of operating a business virtually
9:43 - What is Preventive Healthcare?
11:35 - Starting a business during COVID and telehealth services
16:50 - Tech Operations and at Bebaha and Business Timelines
19:10 - What are some struggles you have faced in your career so far?
21:17 - What first got you interested in tech?
26:01 - How do you balance being an entrepreneur and a masters student?
21:20 - Future Plans for the Business
37:25 - What are some up & coming trends in the health tech industry?
39:24 - What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
40:15 - Do you have any advice for students who are interested in pursuing entrepreneurship in the tech space?
44:56 - Conclusion and Outro
EP 5: Chemical Engineering @ The University of Waterloo w/ Lucig Aroyan #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss the Chemical Engineering program at the University of Waterloo with Lucig Aroyan. Lucig is going into her 3rd year as a chemical engineering student at the University of Waterloo. She just completed her third coop at Hatch in Control and Automation.
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Lucig’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucig-aroyan/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
1:51 - What is Chemical Engineering?
2:15 - Can you tell us more about the Chemical Engineering program at Waterloo?
6:27 - Why did you choose this program?
7:38 - How have you found your experience at University of Waterloo?
9:49 - What clubs are there and what are you part of?
20:03 - Do you have any advice for students?
20: 53 - How has the experience with finding coops been through your program?
25:44 - What sort of co-op experiences have you had?
48:47 - Where are you headed after graduation?
50:58 - What kind of student is fit for Chemical Engineering at Waterloo?
52:18 - How is Chemical Engineering at Waterloo different from other schools?
53:45 - Do you have any advice for students coming into the program?
54:30 - Conclusion and Outro
EP 4: Holiday Special on Tech Recruiting and Internships For Undergrads w/ Annie Zhang and Harry Qu
In this special episode of the In Query, we discuss all things tech recruiting and internships for undergraduate students. We dive into the process of applying to internships from selected companies, making a resume and completing the interview.
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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PTC Membership Program (Discord): https://projecttechconferences.com/member
Notion: https://notion.so
LeetCode: https://leetcode.com/
HackerRank: https://www.hackerrank.com/
Bootstrap: https://getbootstrap.com/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
0:52 - What is CO-OP?
5:53 - Process of applying to internships
10:39 - Identifying companies and roles you want to apply for
12:26 - Applying on job boards and Linkedin networking
19:48 - How to make a resume stand out?
32:30 - Other parts of the job application
34:41 - How to write a cover letter?
38:10 - Completing a profile or online assessment
45:25 - The interview process - behavioural and technical questions
1:02:46 - Virtual, in-person and phone call interviews
1:11:26 - Timeframe for applying to internships
1:15:20 - Dealing with Rejection and Final Thoughts
EP 3: Starting Clubs, Winning Hackathons, and Finding High School Internships w/ Sohil Athare #TechDuringHighSchool
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss starting clubs, winning hackathons and finding high school internships with Sohil Athare. Sohil is a student, full-stack developer, and designer with a passion for tech! He loves innovating on complex websites and apps and specializes in responsive design, user experience, and interface design. He is also a passionate hackathon enthusiast and leader. Moreover, he aims to use technology to create positive, impactful changes all over the world.
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This episode is the second in our #TechDuringHighSchool series. Each episode will give insight into getting involved in the tech industry during high school. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
IG @projecttechconferences
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Sohil's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sohil-athare-450a9a1a9/
Sololearn: https://www.sololearn.com/home
EP 2: Industrial Engineering at Dalhousie University w/ Warren Todd #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss the Industrial Engineering program at Dalhousie University with Warren Todd.
Warren is currently a 4th-year industrial engineering student at Dalhousie University. He grew up in Ottawa and decided to head to the east coast to pursue his education. During his free time, he enjoys playing intramural/pick-up sports and exploring the east coast with his roommates.
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Warren’s Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-todd-003981160/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
1:53 - Can you tell us a little more about Industrial Engineering at Dalhousie University?
2:20 - What is Industrial Engineering?
2:17 - Why did you choose your program?
7:10 - What are the requirements in the application?
7:48 - What sort of grades are needed to have a competitive application?
8:33 - Do you have any advice for students who are applying for the program?
9:33 - How have you found your experience at Dalhousie University?
14:02 - What clubs are you part of?
15:19 - How would you describe the academics? Is your program challenging?
17:35 - Do you have any advice for students hoping to go to Dalhousie University?
22:42 - How has the experience with finding coops been through your program?
24:27 - What sort of co-op experiences have you had?
29:07 - What sort of jobs do grads typically go for in your program?
36:47 - Where are you headed after graduation?
38:13 - Conclusion and Outro
EP 1: High School Internships and Side Projects w/ Hannah Du #TechDuringHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss high school internships, Technovation Girls and side projects with Hannah Du. Hannah is a Grade 12 student at Colonel By Secondary School in the IB Program. Tune in to hear her experience finding internships at Nokia Tech Labs and IIeTTonna as a high school student.
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This episode is the first in our #TechDuringHighSchool series. Each episode will give insight on getting involved in the tech industry during high school. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
IG @projecttechconferences
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Hannah’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahdu/
Technovation: https://technovationchallenge.org/
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0:00 - Intro
High School
3:32 - What is the IB program?
5:28 - What sort of extracurricular activities do you partake in?
7:42 - What does your day-to-day schedule look like?
9:06 - Do you have any tips for other students?
Journey into Technology
10:36 - How did you discover your interest in tech?
13:06 - How did you put together your project at Technovation?
18:02 - Roles of the mentors at Technovation.
19:29 - How did you get involved at IIeTTonna?
Nokia Tech Labs
20:18 - What was the application process for Nokia?
23:35 - What did you do at Nokia?
25:12 - What was your technical toolkit?
25:53 - Did you learn these skills on the job?
27:01 - Do you have any advice for high school students looking to find part time jobs in tech?
28:04 - Any advice for students who are looking to take the tech route?
29:16 - Conclusion
EP 0: Season 2 Trailer w/ Apollo, Annie, Harry and Niharika
Welcome to Season 2 of In Query. In this episode, we introduce our hosts for the season, Annie Zhang, Harry Qu and Apollo Lin and talk about what to look forward to in season 2.
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Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
Website: https://www.projecttechconferences.com/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro
0:20 - Introductions
2:46 - What are your academic backgrounds?
6:39 - Why did you want to join In Query?
8:58 - What tech trends are you hoping to cover this season?
11:25 - Types of series’ on In Query
12:00 - What is something you are looking forward to in Season 2?
14:34 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 18: Season 1 Finale w/ Apollo, Annie, and Daniel
In this final episode of In Query S1, we invited our co-hosts to chat about their journey since launch till now. Together, Apollo and the co-hosts reviewed some of their favourite highlights from the season, their podcast recommendations, and where In Query is headed for S2.
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Podcast Recommendations:
Philosophize This https://www.philosophizethis.org/
Working Hard, Hardly Working https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uh7KMBji1BptMsUS4tNNM?si=gRDy2kb0RqKXlTn_81TOng&dl_branch=1
In the Dark https://open.spotify.com/show/1aFyRYDJ1pHEaPMnZAGaOr?si=MRsDzuTwRUGb3ZTwSRwCNw&dl_branch=1
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PTC Membership Program https://www.projecttechconferences.com/member
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Chapters
0:00 - Intro & Background
0:34 - Daniel’s introduction
1:03 - What made us want to start a podcast?
1:51 - Why did you guys want to join as hosts?
2:51 - How is it like working behind the scenes on the podcast?
4:41 - What was the most memorable moment from Season 1 of our podcast?
6:02 - What is one thing you guys learned about the tech industry?
7:57 - Favourite podcasts?
9:25 - Are there any trends in tech that you have been following?
11:15 - How did PTC adapt to the COVID world?
12:24 - What is in store for PTC next year?
13:39 - Do you have any messages to pass on?
14:52 - What do you see in the future for In Query?
15:42 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 17: Biomedical Engineering @ University Waterloo w/ Sana Allana #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss the Biomedical Engineering program at the University of Waterloo with Sana Allana.
Sana is a 4th-year biomedical engineering student at the University of Waterloo. She is currently completing a co-op term at J&J. During Sana's free time, she enjoys acting and watching the office as well as Grey's Anatomy.
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Sana's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanaallana/?miniProfileUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_miniProfile%3AACoAACcrl6ABE1bV1lsF2RNYtHSdavvSFXB2f00
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
2:08 - What is Biomedical Engineering?
3:11 - What makes this program special and why did you choose it?
4:18 - How are coops structured within your program?
5:40 - What are some requirements for the application?
7:53 - Did you have to submit any supplementals?
8:24 - Advice for students looking to apply to this program?
Campus Life
10:41 - How have you found your experience at the University of Waterloo?
12:57 - Favourite aspect of the Waterloo campus?
14:55 - Are you part of any clubs?
16:30 - Is the program challenging?
19:14 - Favourite and least favourite classes?
Job Prospects
23:14 - How has the experience of finding coops been?
27:34 - What co-op experiences have you had?
28:53 - What sort of jobs do graduates go for?
31:43 - Where do you see yourself headed after graduation?
32:54 - What are your top three interests, career-wise?
34:37 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 16: Event Hosting, Engineering Physics and Software w/ Francesco Virga #TechFromSquareOne
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss event hosting, engineering physics and software with Francesco Virga. Francesco is a graduate of Queens University where he completed a degree in Engineering Physics. He has acquired an extensive amount of work experience during his university years ranging from freelance work to software development internships, as well as involvement in startups. After noticing many issues in the event and payment space, he co-founded Bounce, a startup located in Toronto.
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This episode is part of our #TechFromSquareOne focus series where we interview people from various startups around the country.
Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Francesco's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francescovirga/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
3:05 - What were your original interests and how did that lead you to where you are now?
Starting a Tech Startup in University
5:31 - What made you decide to take the startup route?
7:48 - What impact did your engineering and physics degree have on your career?
11:43 - How did you balance work and university?
Bounce
13:45 - What is Bounce?
18:04 - Where did you originally see the need for this medium in the payment and event industry?
19:41 - When was the moment you decided to try to fix this problem?
21:43 - How would you describe the makings of the company?
23:23 - What is your role in Bounce and what are your day to day responsibilities?
24:30 - What is your favourite part of your day to day?
25:58 - What is the commitment needed to start a tech startup?
29:58 - What was the biggest challenge Bounce had faced as of right now?
34:02 - What is the biggest difference between working in a big tech company compared to an entrepreneur in the tech space?
36:09 - Do you have a typical week, or is each week different from the other?
37:48 - Do you see any upcoming trends in the payment and event industry that you think are here to stay?
39:41 - What are some struggles you have faced in your career so far?
42:34 - What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
47:21 - “When people are asked what they regret, they usually regret things that they haven’t done”
48:26 - What are the next steps for Bounce and what are you most excited for?
49:58 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 15: Windsurfing, engineering and autonomous vehicles w/ David Hayes #TechFromSquareOne
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss windsurfing, engineering and autonomous vehicles with David Hayes. David is the CEO and founder of AVO, the autonomous vehicle organization, a Toronto-based startup. AVO is building the world's first fully connected and autonomous construction site. David competed in the world cup in the Olympic windsurfing discipline for 8 years, he placed top 5 at the Miami World Cup and won a world championship in 2005. Additionally, he built an international team of elite athletes, trainers, and coaches who pushed the limits for sports science and performance on the water. Currently based in Toronto, David and his team at AVO are building a truly innovative technology company with a focus on the autonomous vehicle industry, specifically in the vehicle-to-pedestrian segment. AVO intends to increase security and safety within the industry by developing reliable, intuitive, and scalable V2P technology.
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This episode is part of our new #TechFromSquareOne focus series where we interview people from various startups around the country.
Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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David's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-k-hayes/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
AVO - Autonomous Vehicle Organization
2:40 - About the company
4:21 - What was the first thing that got you interested in technology?
5:56 - Out of everything you have done, what interests you the most?
University at Queens
7:05 - Experience at Queens University
14:29 - How did windsurfing and being an engineer affect your career?
18:34 - Where did you head after graduation?
Career
24:10 - Where did you head after working for Cisco?
31:30 - What were some initial failures you faced when starting AVO?
35:57 - How did you find others who were interested in autonomous vehicles?
38:17 - Where are you now with AVO?
41:09 - How did the pandemic impact AVO?
45:40 - What is it like in the autonomous vehicle industry?
47:55 - Any other trends in the technology industry?
50:02 - What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
52:59 - Any advice for upcoming entrepreneurs who are looking to start in the tech space?
54:21 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 14: CS @ UCLA w/ Bill Liu #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss the CS program at UCLA with Bill Liu. Bill is a 3rd-year Computer Science student at the University of California, Los Angeles. Last summer, Bill was a Software Engineering Intern at Facebook, where he worked on Facebook for iOS, and Bill is currently taking a quarter off school to return to Facebook, where he’s currently working on Instagram for iOS. He will also be working as a Software Engineering Intern at TikTok this upcoming summer. Outside of school and work, Bill enjoys painting, fencing, and playing chess.
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This episode is part of our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series where we showcase different tech programs from around the country.
Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Bill's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-liu-profile/
Leetcode: https://leetcode.com/
Facebook University: https://www.facebook.com/careers/students-and-grads/students
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
University Degree and Life
2:27 - Why did you decide to make the switch to computer science?
6:08 - Are you still looking to go to law school after CS?
6:35 - How can you transfer programs at UCLA?
8:12 - How would you describe the application process as an international student?
9:27 - How were the SATs, ACTs for you and any advice for students?
11:00 - What are the grades that are needed to have a competitive application?
12:28 - Were there any supplementals that helped your application aside from grades?
13:12 - What was the biggest benefit from the IB program?
Would you have any advice for students who are applying to a university abroad?
18:06 - How was your experience at UCLA so far?
20:20 - How would you compare American college life to a Canadian university?
Career
21:45 - How did you get interested in tech?
24:42 - What kind of projects do you enjoy taking on?
28:06 - Are you more interested in a particular sector of the tech industry?
Internships
31:55 - Could you tell us about some of your past internships?
37:01 - How would you describe a typical day for an intern?
41:03 - Which past project did you enjoy the most?
42:09 - Do you have advice for students looking to secure a tech internship?
Day to Day as a Product Manager
47:23 - What are some activities outside of school that you enjoy doing?
50:06 - What is a piece of advice that you would give to aspiring youth looking to go into the tech industry?
52:26 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 13: Business, technology, and becoming a CTO w/ Nastaran Bisheban
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss business, technology, and becoming a CTO with Nastaran Bisheban. Nastaran is a passionate, energetic and seasoned Technology leader. A software engineer and computer scientist by education, a certified Project Manager that holds an MBA in Leadership with Honors and Distinction from the University of Liverpool. A public speaker on various disciplines of technology strategy with a Harvard Business School executive leadership program training to round it all.
Challenges status quo and conventional practices, a risk-taker and an alert decision-maker with a proven “Make It Happen” and “keep all happy” personality.
With multiple computer software and project management publications, she is a strategic mentor on various non-profit organizations and is the former Chair of Canadian Women in Technology South Western Ontario
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LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Nastaran's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nastaranb/
1Q84 (Book): https://www.amazon.ca/1Q84-Haruki-Murakami/dp/0385678029
Connectome (Book): https://www.amazon.ca/Connectome-How-Brains-Wiring-Makes/dp/0547678592
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
7:20 - What got you into technology?
Career as a Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
15:32 - What were some of the struggles you faced?
19:38 - What does your job entail?
22:33 - Have you ever experienced imposter syndrome?
Women in Tech
24:48 - What are some of the initiatives you are in?
28:31 - What is the best way to get a young woman into tech?
31:05 - Do you have any tips on how to hone your skills?
35:56 - Where do you see the future of tech going?
38:06 - What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
40:03 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 12: Product Management, Conquering Self Doubt, Thoughtfully Shaping Your Career w/ Amy Zhou
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss product management, conquering self-doubt and thoughtfully shaping your career with Amy Zhou. Amy is a Senior Associate in Capital One’s Process Manager Development Program. Amy (who graduated from Queen’s Commerce in 2019) leads the digital channels product roadmap for the Hudson’s Bay Canada Partnership. In human talk, that means she manages the online banking and digital alerts products and she spends her days championing the best possible user experience on her products.
Outside of work, Amy is an adventurer by nature and she’s travelled to & studied in 20+ countries across Europe, Asia and Africa, (though these days she’s staying safely at home wondering whether her passport feels lonely). She loves to continuously grow and help others in their development journeys so you’ll often find her trying new things (most recently, calligraphy) and working with her mentees and buddies.
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Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Amy's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyzhou4/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
University Degree
3:20 - As you started out pursuing a business degree, what made you change your mind to transition towards a math degree?
4:40 - When did you first become interested in tech?
5:54 - With tech in mind, did you try to participate in any tech-related clubs or activities in university?
7:56 - What is the impact that your commerce degree had on your career right now?
Career - Product Management
- When and how did you decide to pursue product management?
10:20 - As a product manager, how do you decide on which features to prioritize?
13:50 - How long does a new feature usually take, from brainstorming to integration?
15:49 - Agile vs waterfall methodology
17:15 - As time goes on, users will want change so how do product managers stay on top of the changes?
19:00 - What do you think is the most efficient way to gather the users’ opinions?
21:16 - What are some traits that a good Product Manager should have?
25:00- How important is having technical knowledge for product management?
Day to Day as a Product Manager
25:56 - Did coming from a business background help you?
27:40 - What are some technical skills that you think are the most critical for your role?
29:40 - What are some struggles you faced throughout your career?
32:33 - Imposter Syndrome
37:20 - Are product managers the CEO of their project?
40:40 - What is the favourite feature/project you have rolled out so far?
47:20 - What is your favourite part of the workday?
52:19 - What are some trends that are happening in the Project Management industry?
57:16 - Did you enjoy any aspects of working from home?
59:55 - Do you have any further advice for students looking to go into product management?
1:06:24 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 11: Management, IT and Cybersecurity w/ Chris Whalen
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss management, IT and cybersecurity with Chris Whalen. Chris is an experienced technology professional with a passion for cybersecurity and is currently the Director of IT and Cybersecurity at Solace, a Canadian high-tech company. His experience includes leading various cybersecurity programs, mentoring colleagues, performing deep technical analysis, and adopting new technologies that have consistently been proven a success.
Chris has a degree in Mathematics from the University of Ottawa and is involved in recreational hockey both as a player and a coach.
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Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Chris's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswhalen7/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
2:00 - How did you first become interested in the field?
University Degree
10:02 - Why did you choose math over all the other stem programs available in university?
13:46 - What was the impact of a math degree on your career?
14:56 - Would you recommend someone interested in a role in IT to take on a math degree?
15:46 - Where did you head after graduating from university?
Career
17:53 - Did you ever consider going into video game creation?
19:38 - What were some struggles you faced throughout your career?
24:56 - Why did you choose to transition into leadership and managing roles as to software?
28:41 - What are some skills that are crucial to be successful in the tech industry?
32:08 - Why did you get interested in cybersecurity?
34:06 - What was the biggest change in the cybersecurity industry since you started?
Day to Day as the Director of Cyber Security
38:50 - How would you describe the day-to-day of a director of cybersecurity?
39:43 - What is the most rewarding part of your job?
40:36 - What advice would you give to a student that is looking to pursue a career in cybersecurity?
45:19 - What do you think is the next big thing for the technology industry?
47:00 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 10: Engineering Management, Creating Opportunities, and the Secret to Coops w/ Ania Halliop
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss software development, engineering, and leadership development. Ania Halliop is a technical senior leader with expertise in driving engineering and data strategy and organizational change. Recently she has been working as a senior Engineering Manager at Uber ATG R&D Engineering, leading teams for the productization of deep-learning algorithms for self-driving vehicles. Prior to that, she was a Senior Director of Engineering at FreshBooks where she led data engineering and infrastructure. A graduate of Queen’s University, Ania has been working in software for almost 20 years, first as a software developer and then as a technical leader. Throughout her career, Ania has made contributions to networking, security, and web development, and has helped develop new leaders, grow software development teams, and drive technical and organizational change at companies such as Siemens, Blackberry, and FreshBooks. Over the past 5 years, Ania has been involved in the Toronto tech scene to provide opportunities and mentorship to new speakers with the goal of encouraging more women to speak at technical events and conferences.
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Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Ania's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ania-halliop/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
University Degree
6:24 - Which program did you end up in?
8:40 - What impact did your program have on your career?
11:43 - Where did you head after graduation?
Career
14:56 - What were some of the biggest struggles you have faced in your career?
18:25 - From software to management, what was your transition like?
22:31 - What is the biggest difference between a software developer and a manager?
24:38 - To get into a manager role, would you have to start as a software developer?
26:54 - On the software side, what are skills that would be required to be successful?
29:35 - How easy would it be to switch roles in the tech industry?
32:10 - How could you display your adaptability on a resume?
34:34 - As a student, how would you find which area you are more inclined to work in (frontend/backend)?
Students
37:05 - Do you have any advice for students that are looking to go into university?
38:24 - Do you have advice for students who are looking to find their first co-op position?
40:40 - What are some things a high school student can do from an early age to test out the tech industry?
Day to Day as a Senior Developer
48:48 - What is the main difference between a junior and a senior developer, how do you transition?
50:48 - What is your day-to-day as a senior leader?
54:48 - Do you have any general advice for students who are looking to pursue a career in the tech industry?
56:27 - Do you have any advice for people who are looking for mentors?
57:30 - What would you say is the most rewarding part of your job?
59:31 - Outro & Ending Remarks
EP 9: Project Management, Failure, & Making an Impact w/ Sana Abou-Shaaban
In this episode of the In Query, we discuss project management, failure and, making an impact with Sana Abou-Shaaban. Sana is currently an IT Project Manager for the Federal Government of Canada and strives for diversity and inclusion for Women in Tech. For many years, Sana has been recognized for her initiatives, extensive volunteering and extracurricular work, and her passion for making a difference in society. She is the co-founder of the very first Woman in Tech/IT network at her department, the Secretary for North America Board of ComSoc, the Treasurer of IEEE Ottawa Section, a director of the Professional Engineers of Ontario, and a board member of many other engineering associations and organizations. In her spare time, she also teaches coding for girls that come from underserved families and mentors girls in Technovations – where they create phone apps that are aimed to make a difference in society.
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Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
--
Sana’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanaaboushaaban/
Technovation: https://technovationchallenge.org/
IEEE Ottawa: https://www.ieeeottawa.ca/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
4:38 - University Life and Degree
13:00 - Woman in Tech (Technovation)
31:04 - Day to Day as a Project Manager
48:05 - Outro & Final advice
EP 8: Shopify Dev Degree @ Carleton University w/ William Wang #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Shopify Dev Degree Program at Carleton University with William Wang. Will is currently a back-end developer at Shopify and a part of the Dev Degree Intern Program with Carleton. In his spare time, he likes to partake in competitive math and compete in hackathons.
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This episode is the eighth in our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series. Each episode in this 8 episode series will showcase a different tech program in a Canadian university. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Dev Degree https://devdegree.ca/
Dev Degree Admission Dates https://devdegree.ca/pages/admissions
Carleton's Application Dates https://admissions.carleton.ca/deadlines/
CS Internship at Carleton https://carleton.ca/scs/future-students/bcs-internship/
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
University Degree
2:02 - Could you tell us a bit more about the program?
2:57 - Why did you pick this program?
Application Process
4:27 - What are the requirements of the application?
5:43 - Why Carlton over York?
6:57 - What grades do you need?
9:01 - What are the supplementals that are needed?
10:31 - Advice for students looking to apply to this program.
Campus Life @ Carleton
11:57 - How have you found your experience on campus?
15:05 - How did you balance studies and work at Shopify?
16:53 - What does a typical day look like?
18:28 - Is your program challenging?
Shopify Intern
19:32 - Placements at Shopify
22:13 - Do most students in the Dev Degree program work full-time at Shopify?
22:59 - What topics in Computer Science interest you the most?
24:06 - Outro & Final advice
EP 7: Computer Engineering @ University of Waterloo w/ Keith Choa #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Computer Engineering program at the University of Waterloo with Keith Choa.
Keith is currently a second-year Computer Engineering student at the University of Waterloo. He recently moved here from the Philippines and he has long-term career goals of working in tech.
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This episode is the seventh in our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series. Each episode in this 8 episode series will showcase a different tech program in a Canadian university. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Waterloo Co-op Dates https://uwaterloo.ca/co-operative-education/important-dates
CE at Waterloo https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/programs/computer-engineering
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
University Degree
1:39 - What is Computer Engineering?
2:12 - How is Computer Engineering at the University of Waterloo?
4:27 - Why did you choose Computer Engineering at Waterloo?
5:45 - What type of student would you recommend this program to?
6:39 - How can students learn the difference between Computer Engineering and Computer Science?
Campus Life at Waterloo
7:51 - How has your experience been at the University of Waterloo?
9:19 - How does staying at a university college work?
11:08 - Do you recommend incoming students to live on campus?
12:34 - How was living in university college compared to living off-campus?
13:33 - Would you have any advice for students who are looking to live off-campus?
14:43 - What sort of clubs are you currently involved in?
17:06 - What are the requirements for someone who is looking to join these design teams?
17:19 - Are these teams limited to students in engineering?
Academics at Waterloo
18:11 - How would you describe the academics at Waterloo?
19:12 - Does the IB program help in university?
20:57 - Were there any other benefits of the IB program?
21:37 - How was the transition from high school to university?
22:19 - What kind of courses did you do in the first year?
24:41 - Do you have any general advice for students who are looking to get into this program?
Co-op Education at Waterloo
26:11 - How would you describe finding co-ops through the university?
27:44 - Did the University of Waterloo provide you with resources and help?
28:44 - What is the typical timeline for applying to coop in your program?
29:42 - With a co-op, are you limited to just applying through the school's portal?
30:13 - What were some of your co-op experiences?
31:50 - Do you have any advice for students going into their first co-op term?
32:35 - What sort of jobs do students from the Computer Engineering program typically go for?
33:31 - Do you know where you want to head after graduation?
34:05 - Do you have any general advice for students going into a co-op?
34:21 - Given that everything shifted, are you currently completing your co-op online?
34:47 - What are the biggest differences between working in person and remotely?
35:28 - Do you have any tips on how to get over that struggle?
35:50 - Outro & Final advice
EP 6: Business and CS Double Degree @ UW/WLU w/ Shi Han Qin #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Business and Computer Science Double Degree program at the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University with Shi Han Qin.
Shi Han is currently a second-year Business and Computer Science student at the University of Waterloo. Currently, she is looking for a job to complete her internship next term in January.
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This episode is the sixth in our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series. Each episode in this 8 episode series will showcase a different tech program in a Canadian university. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
--
Waterloo Applications dates https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/applicants/important-dates
CS/BBA at Waterloo https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/programs/business-administration-computer-science-double-degree
CS/BBA at Laurier https://www.wlu.ca/programs/business-and-economics/undergraduate/business-bba-and-computer-science-bsc/index.html
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro & Background
University Degree
2:35 - Could you tell us more about your program?
4:28 - Why did you choose this program?
5:44 - Is your coursework already established?
6:47 - What classes you had to take in your first year?
7:22 - Which classes did you find the most challenging?
8:54 - Since you are at the University of Waterloo and Wilfred Laurier, do you have two university portals to choose your courses from?
10:11 - What would you say are the pros and cons of a double degree?
Application Process
12:59 - What are some requirements for the application?
14:57 - Did you have to write any essays for the application?
15:21 - What are the grades to have a competitive application?
16:16 - Would you say extracurriculars are also important?
16:42 - Would you have any advice for students who are interested in applying for this program?
17:26 - How have you found your experience at Waterloo and Laurier?
Experience attending Waterloo and Laurier
18:36 - What would the daily life of a student on res look like?
20:21 - Were you a part of any clubs at Waterloo?
22:30 - How would you describe the academic portion of your program?
Co-op Program
24:30 - How has your experience been with finding coops through your program?
27:27 - Do you feel supported by Waterloo and did it help you find your summer jobs?
28:58 - What sort of co-op experiences have you had in the past?
30:50 - Where do the graduates from your program typically head?
31:36 - Where are you headed after graduation?
32:07 - For your upcoming co-op, do you have any ideas of what you would like to try out?
33:16 - Do you think you still have the opportunity to go into business and tech?
34:14 - Outro & Final advice
EP 5: Commerce and CS Dual Degree @ Queen's w/ Alice Qi #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Commerce and Computer Science Dual Degree program at Queen's University with Alice Qi.
Alice is currently a third-year Commerce and Computer Science student at Queen's University. Next summer she will be completing a summer internship in consulting and has long-term career goals of working in tech.
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This episode is the fifth in our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series. Each episode in this 8 episode series will showcase a different tech program in a Canadian university. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
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Queen's Applications dates https://www.queensu.ca/admission/about-applying/dates
Queen's Commerce https://www.queensu.ca/admission/programs/commerce
CS at Queen's https://www.cs.queensu.ca/
EP 4: Computer Science @ University of Ottawa w/ Shkula Wardak #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Computer Science program at the University of Ottawa with Shkula Wardak.
Shkula is a 3rd year Computer Science student at the University of Ottawa. Over the summer she worked at Health Canada as a CO-OP student. When she’s not studying, she's spending time outside in nature, tending to her numerous plants, or discovering new parts of the city on her bike.
EP 3: Aeronautical Engineering @ Royal Military College of Canada w/ Ayush Gupta #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Aeronautical Engineering program at the Royal Military College of Canada with Officer Cadet Ayush Gupta.
Officer Cadet Ayush Gupta is a Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP) student at the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston, ON undertaking a Bachelor’s of Aeronautical Engineering. He enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in 2019 for the Pilot trade which includes his training and studies at RMC. During his free time, OCdt Gupta enjoys travelling, video games, instructing, and hiking. He also takes opportunities to fly single-engine aircraft and high-performance sailplanes for fun.
EP 2: Biomedical Engineering @ University of Waterloo w/ Aryan Singh #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Biomedical Engineering program at the University of Waterloo with Aryan Singh.
Aryan Singh is a highly-motivated second-year student pursuing an undergraduate degree (BASc) in biomedical engineering at the University of Waterloo. He has significant interests in the fields of point-of-care medical device development and tissue engineering. Tune in to learn more about this program, student life at UW, and see if biomed engineering is for you!
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This episode is the second in our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series. Each episode in this 8 episode series will showcase a different tech program in a Canadian university. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
--
Contact Aryan:
IG: @aryansingh16_
Check out Beyond the Books
https://anchor.fm/beyond-the-books/
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Additional Resources:
https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/programs/biomedical-engineering
EP 1: Biotechnology @ University of Ottawa w/ Stephanie Sibbald #TechAfterHighSchool
In this episode of In Query, we discuss the Honours BSc in Biochemistry/ BASc in Chemical Engineering (Biotechnology) program at the University of Ottawa with Stephanie Sibbald.
Stephanie is a 4th Biotechnology student at the University of Ottawa. She would describe her program as being challenging, yet rewarding. Tune in to learn more about this program, student life at uOttawa, and see if biotech is for you!
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This episode is the first in our #TechAfterHighSchool focus series. Each episode in this 8 episode series will showcase a different tech program in a Canadian university. Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop!
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
--
Contact Steph:
Email: sibb030@uottawa.ca
IG: @steph_sibbald
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Additional Resources:
uO Program guide 2021: https://www.uottawa.ca/undergraduate-admissions/sites/www.uottawa.ca.undergraduate-admissions/files/recr-20-brochure_programmes_en_final_web.pdf
How to apply to uOttawa: https://www.uottawa.ca/undergraduate-admissions/
Science Programs and suggested courses sequences: https://science.uottawa.ca/en/programs-of-study/undergraduate-studies
Future Science Gee-Gee: https://science.uottawa.ca/en/future-science-gee-gee
Biotechnology: https://science.uottawa.ca/en/future-science-gee-gee/CHM#BCH
uO Future students: https://www.uottawa.ca/en/future-students
Reasons to choose uOttawa: https://www.uottawa.ca/this-is-uottawa/
French immersion: https://immersion.uottawa.ca/en
EP 0: Internships, Gap Years, and Entrepreneurship w/ Annie Zhang
In this episode of In Query, we discuss internships, gap years, and entrepreneurship with Annie Zhang.
Annie is a current undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo and a Bachelor of Business Administration at Wilfrid Laurier University. Tune in to hear about her experience finding her first internship, taking a gap year, and founding Project Tech Conferences.
Make sure to follow us to stay in the loop:
LinkedIn @ Project Tech Conferences
Contact Annie:
In Query: Trailer
Welcome to In Query! In Query is a PTC podcast geared towards students where we will be discussing all things related to tech from school to industry. We are looking forward to have you join us on this journey!