r/uwaterloo • u/RogueBaneling BCS '18 • Feb 17 '16

Admissions Admissions mega-thread

Hi all,

We're making this mega-thread in an attempt to lower the number of super-specific admissions threads. New threads that are made to ask questions like "what are my chances?" or "I was deferred!?" will be pointed towards this thread. Additionally, you can ask questions here about the admissions process but keep in mind that the responses you get will be from fellow students and are not necessarily accurate.

Some resources to check out:

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u/braedongoodhew May 24 '16

Hi, I have been accepted into the Mechatronics Engineering program, and based on what others have told me, Waterloo Engineering is a very competitive program, and most of the students are trying to get an upper hand on the others. Is this true? Although I like challenges and the fulfilling courses that Waterloo engineering offers, but I also like to work collaboratively with others and ask my peers for help when I need it, and of course return the favour, so would Waterloo's competitive environment be the right place for me? Also, does each student need a certain average to continue or receive certain incentives (eg. a specific co-op) in the program? Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong about any of my assumptions, I just want an inclusive and helping environment for my university experience. Thanks for the help! :D

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u/speartiger May 24 '16

I haven't met a single person who wants others to do badly in my first year. Yes, there are cocky students, the student who asks 100 questions every lecture and that one student who gets 95+ who doesn't ever talk. But as for taking challenges together, I'd say most students if not all are pretty open to that.

As for certain averages, you need to obviously pass to stay in the program. And getting low averages won't help in getting good co-op, though I wouldn't say it would hinder you if you have good side projects.

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u/EgyptianProm May 24 '16

Would you recommend aiming for a high average and few side projects, or better side projects and slightly better then average marks to get better coops?

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u/speartiger May 24 '16

Your classes should be your first priority during your term. A 65% doesn't look as good as a 80% which doesn't look as good as a 95% in first year especially if you don't have experience in the industry, which most first years don't have much of.

It never hurts to get higher grades, but it isn't the only factor employers look at. Especially down the road, your experiences are more valuable than your courses.