In June of 2020, Annie Wei walked across the stage as the only graduate from Urban Academy that year, a unique event that she was able to experience amidst the challenges of the pandemic when graduation ceremonies were sidelined. Now, as she nears graduation from the University of British Columbia’s Mechatronics Program (a blend of mechanical, electrical and computer engineering), Annie reflects on the lasting impact of her time at UA, where she started as a Grade 2 student and grew into a confident, accomplished young woman.
Annie’s memories of Urban Academy are filled with moments of connection—whether through the arts, close-knit community events, or cross-grade friendships. “One of my most memorable experiences was the show choir trip to Disneyland,” she recalls. “It gave me the chance to connect with students from other grades, and I still talk about it with my university friends.” The trip, which happened just before the COVID-19 pandemic, has become one of her cherished memories, allowing her opportunities to foster bonds across ages and beyond academics.
UA’s small-school environment gave her the flexibility and support to excel. Though classes were small, she never felt alone in her journey, crediting teachers like Ms. Herman for her readiness in challenging subjects like calculus. “The strong foundation I built at UA prepared me for university-level courses,” she explains, noting how her understanding of complex math concepts made the transition to UBC smoother.
Reflecting on the teachers and mentors who shaped her path, Annie recalls Ms. Brooke and Ms. Kilpatrick, who encouraged her to explore behind-the-scenes roles in both theatre production and music. “I’m not huge on getting on stage, but I loved being a stage manager,” Annie says. “Ms. Brooke gave me many opportunities to manage productions, and that’s where I found joy in putting everything together.” These experiences taught her the value of collaboration, a skill that has proven essential in her current work with the UBC Thunderbots, a robotics competition team.
As part of the UBC Thunderbots, Annie applied her knowledge in mechatronics to help the team place 4th in Division B of the Small Size League at the 2023 RoboCup competition in France. She sees direct connections between the collaborative spirit at UA and the teamwork required in her university projects. “I was always encouraged to push beyond my comfort zone, whether in theatre or Model UN. That spirit of trying something new has stuck with me throughout university.”
Annie’s career path in mechatronics has her working at the intersection of innovation and practicality. Having always felt like she was able to try new things and connect her learning, she has had the confidence to pursue this multidisciplinary field. “At school, if there was something you wanted to try, you’d get the chance,” she reflects, noting the variety of experiences in which she was able to participate.
While her academics catapulted her down the path of a successful engineering degree, she credits many of the ‘extras’ she was exposed to—stage management, show choir, volleyball, MUN and learning to conduct the Junior Band as a Grade 12 student— for fuelling her current passions. “I love musicals, because of the musical theatre I got to do—that’s my side hobby. I started a group chat with some friends I took to see some musicals so now, even if I can’t go to a production, my friends might get a group together to go—I feel like I did that, my impact on my friend group is to get them exposed to and excited about the arts!” She also credits those extras with her ability to feel comfortable public speaking, working with a diverse group of students, and building her very valuable transferable skills.
A valuable lesson that she still carries with her is the value of mentorship and cross-grade connections. “The mentorship and companionship I received from older students is something I want to pay forward.” She fondly remembers being supported and encouraged by older peers and now offers guidance to younger UBC students in her program, helping them navigate the challenges of university—paying it forward.
Having completed two Co-Op terms—and gaining experience in mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as project management—Annie is excited to enter the workforce upon graduating in Spring 2025. Ultimately, she defines a successful career as one that is meaningful to her, where she enjoys the work and can build positive relationships with colleagues. Hearing Annie speak about her experiences, I have no doubt that she will find the success she is seeking.
As Annie Wei looks to the future, she embodies the core of Urban Academy’s vision of educating for tomorrow. Whether through her work in robotics, her commitment to mentorship, or her dedication to finding meaningful and innovative ways to apply her engineering skills, Annie is a true testament to the lasting impact of a well-rounded educational program.
Her advice to current students? “Look ahead and think about what you want from your future. It doesn’t have to be scary—try everything, even the things that seem daunting. You might find you love it, and those experiences will shape who you become.”
