More than 300 students graduated from U of T Engineering on November 10 in a ceremony held at Convocation Hall.

At a reception held prior to convocation, Dean Cristina Amon congratulated graduates and their families on their accomplishment.

“The practice of engineering takes place in a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment,” Dean Amon told the assembled guests in the East Common Room of Hart House. “We are proud that your time here at U of T Engineering has prepared you for all of the challenges that lie ahead.”

Among the graduates was James Chong, who earned a Master of Applied Science degree from the Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, where he studied under Professor Ridha Ben Mrad (MIE). Chong’s research focused on micro-electrical systems, which are very small devices that are used in a variety of electrical devices, including inkjet printers or automobiles.

Chong had completed his undergraduate degree at Ryerson University and was drawn to U of T Engineering by the calibre of the faculty he would have the opportunity to work with.

“There was a lot of independence, and I did learn a lot,” said Chong reflecting on his experience. Currently Chong is working as a researcher in Professor Ben Mrad’s lab while deciding whether to pursue further studies.

Those graduating included 24 undergraduates and 291 graduate students, including 99 who received MEng/MHSc degrees, 141 obtained MASc degrees and 51 earned PhD degrees.

At the ceremony, University Professor Michael Collins (CivE) served as the Convocation Speaker. In his remarks Professor Collins stated, the U of T “is a university to be proud of, to be proud to be part of. But it’s not just very great, it’s very good. This University has a strong heart, and it has been a very pleasant place in which to work.”