Issue link: https://publications.tfs.ca/i/1531851
THOM F. DESTINATION CentraleSupélec (France) / McGill University PROGRAM Global Engineering As a Peer Mentor Head, Thom managed the primary one-on-one tutoring program at TFS and worked directly with four students over a two-year period. Dedicated to the program, he passed along his love of learning to the students with whom he worked. "I commit myself to my work, and in turn it ends up being a system of efficiency," Thom says, reinforcing how he uses analytical thinking to achieve success in his classes and beyond. Thom is a global citizen who has always maintained an international perspective while also pursuing his STEM-oriented goals. Having been born in France, he is eager to reconnect with his roots during his post-secondary studies. His goal, beyond university, is to live in different countries and travel as much as possible and he hopes to find a career that will allow him to do so. Embracing his love of problem solving, Thom enrolled in the month-long Shad Canada program at Dalhousie University in the summer of 2023, where he immersed himself in a STEM and entrepreneurial focused environment. This experience not only sharpened his analytical skills but also helped guide him towards his future educational path. Thom's proficiency in mathematics ignited his interest in physics, and his travels around the world deepened his fascination with space and aviation. At TFS, he developed a solutions- oriented attitude that aligns perfectly with his STEM ambitions and has set his sights on a career as a consultant. "You learn a lot about problem solving, which is essential for a consultant," Thom explains. "Engineering programs are challenging, so when consulting firms hire, they assume engineers know what they're doing." This perspective highlights his readiness to tackle the challenges in this field. Currently Thom is pursuing a dual engineering program at CentraleSupélec in France and McGill University that allows him to explore various pathways in the industry. He is also interested in business and entrepreneurship, laying the groundwork for consulting. He appreciates the flexibility of a generalized engineering program, which provides a solid foundation rather than committing directly to aviation or aerospace engineering. Thom's aspirations are to enter consulting, pursue aerospace engineering or eventually start his own company after gaining more experience. He also plans to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle, something he learned during his time at TFS. With his international mindset, Thom believes he will create numerous opportunities and connections in his future endeavours. WILLIAM L. DESTINATION Rhode Island School of Design PROGRAM Industrial Design William is an artist at heart, excited to tackle the next design-related challenge. He also has an entrepreneurial mindset, constantly seeking creative solutions to all kinds of problems. Drawing on his family's background in clothing manufacturing, he is able to blend innovative thinking with practical experience. During his years at TFS, William says he was motivated to pursue his passions and hone his expertise, taking advantage of a wide variety of co- curricular and academic opportunities. He nurtured his interest in business by founding the Investing 101 Club. During a DECA competition, William and his team pitched an innovative shoe design featuring swappable outsoles, allowing for customization while also circumventing fast fashion and reducing waste. While the connection between economics, physics and art may not be immediately apparent to everyone, William was able to combine insights from his three favourite subjects to cultivate the entrepreneurial and artistic outlook he personifies today. Exhibiting at TFS' IB art show also helped boost his confidence and, thanks to the support he received, encouraged him to pursue his talents further. Combining his knowledge and experiences, William has become a versatile innovator, taking his interests and passion in new directions. Fascinated by engineering, William selected a university program he describes as "engineering art." At the Rhode Island School of Design, he will study industrial design with the option to pursue architectural studies as well. His ultimate goal? To pioneer design solutions aimed at addressing pressing global problems, such as environmental pollution. This creative engineer is also a highly skilled golfer who has competed at the Canadian Junior Golf Championship and often placed in the top 10 of tournaments in which he participated. Through golf William has learned patience and discipline and come to understand the importance of precision. At university, William still wants to make time for golf and learn more about investing. And he's looking forward to delving into how to start his own business and perhaps following a path that will lead to an MBA. In the meantime, William has his eyes set on an internship at a design house. 34 ENTRE NOUS