As a child, Samara Ocansey loved playing with LEGOs.

She would spend countless hours playing with the little blocks as she built houses and structures. Even at that young age, Ocansey knew she wanted to be working in the design and construction of buildings.

Fast forward to today and Ocansey is a third-year student in Humber Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Engineering - Sustainable Building Engineering program.  

Ocansey credits her Humber education for showing her that she had a strong passion for designing energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable buildings. That passion is being further explored through her program, which is helping give her the knowledge and skills to succeed in the career she wants.

“When I saw this program, I thought it was the best of both worlds by combining engineering and sustainability,” said Ocansey. “Humber made me realize that I want to do more than just design and that I really like the engineering part of it. I feel that the program is setting me up for success in my future career.”

Ocansey, an international student from Ghana, came to Humber after time spent at university. The smaller class sizes and the connections she formed with her professors surprised her after the university experience.

“What I really liked is that the professors got to know me personally and they were always willing to help if I had a question,” she said. “It’s been a very positive learning experience at Humber.”

The mix of theory and practical learning is something Ocansey has greatly enjoyed during her time here. She spoke fondly of one project that had students build a track for racing marbles that had a working elevator in it.

“One thing that really stood out to me at Humber was the excellent balance of theory and hands-on learning,” she said. “I’m a hands-on learner so projects like the marble track makes the learning come to life.”

Humber has also been a place where Ocansey has tapped into the leader she always knew was inside her. When she arrived at Humber, she established the Women in Engineering Club where she still serves as the founder and president. It’s a safe space for women to come together to discuss topics of importance while fostering a collaborative environment.  

“Humber gave me the opportunity to create this club and that’s something I’m extremely grateful for,” she said.

Outside of the Women in Engineering Club, Ocansey gives back to the Humber community by serving as a Peer Tutor with the Black Student Support and Engagement. She also volunteers as a sustainability ambassador with the Office of Sustainability.

“I really like helping and supporting my fellow students and I also find, when you teach someone something, you understand that subject even better.”

So, what does the future hold for Ocansey? Potentially more post-secondary education as she considers pursuing her Masters. For the moment, she’s focused on landing her dream career – designing energy efficient and environmentally sustainable buildings that are relevant to the communities in which they are built.

Humber Polytechnic is more than just a place for higher education. It's a place where students come to reach their full potential; where they can find the person they knew was in them all along. In this Spotlight Series, part of Humber's The You You Knew Was In You campaign, we're highlighting current students and alumni who found the you that was in them, and gained their edge at Humber. Learn more by visiting humber.ca/you.