Meet Ehsan

Instructor, UBC Future Global Leaders

Ehsan Banayan Esfahani is a postdoctoral fellow at UBC. He teaches Introduction to Engineering for UBC Future Global Leaders on-campus and online.

What motivated you to join Future Global Leaders as an instructor?

I am deeply passionate about teaching because it allows me not only to share my knowledge but also to learn from my students. The classroom environment is a space where I feel comfortable and inspired, and teaching is something I want to continue throughout my career.

My motivation to join Future Global Leaders is rooted from the program's mission to introduce young students to the fundamentals of engineering. Working with students who are just beginning to explore this field challenges me to view engineering concepts from fresh perspectives. Additionally, I understand their position, as I remember the challenges of making career decisions at their age. I want to help ease that process for them and their families by providing guidance and insight into what a future in engineering could look like.

What is Introduction to Engineering designed to teach?

My course, “Introduction to Engineering” is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in engineering principles. It covers key topics such as the application of mathematics, physics and chemistry in engineering, as well as fundamental concepts relevant to various engineering disciplines. These include statistical analysis, statics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, chemical reactions, reactor design, the theory of matter and gases, circuit analysis and the basics of machine learning in engineering.

The course is highly interactive, with students engaging in activities like group projects, in-class activities, a final presentation and homework assignments, all aimed at reinforcing their understanding of these fundamental topics.

What is the most valuable aspect of the program, for you and the students?

For me, the most valuable aspect is the opportunity to work with young, inquisitive minds and help them build a foundation for their future careers in engineering. The program is designed to give them a comprehensive understanding of what engineering entails, which I believe is crucial in helping them make informed decisions about their academic and professional paths.

How have you seen students transform during their time in the program?

During their time in the course, I have witnessed remarkable transformations in students, both in their understanding of engineering principles and their confidence in applying these concepts. At the start, students knew engineering involves math and science, but they needed a clear understanding of how these fields integrate into solving real-world problems.

As the course progresses, students begin to see the connections between abstract concepts and practical applications. For instance, when we cover topics like fluid dynamics or thermodynamics, they start to understand how these principles apply to everyday situations, like the design of heating systems or the aerodynamics of vehicles. The interactive nature of the course, with group projects and in-class exercises, allows them to collaborate, think critically, and apply what they have learned in meaningful ways.

By the end of the course, I see students not only understand the fundamentals of engineering but also develop a genuine interest and excitement for the field. They become more confident in their problem-solving abilities and are better equipped to tackle complex challenges. This transformation is evident in their final projects, where they show their ability to integrate specific fundamental concepts to various engineering principles.

What would you say to someone thinking about taking Introduction to Engineering?

To anyone considering  taking Introduction to Engineering, I would say that this is a fantastic opportunity to explore the world of engineering in a supportive and inspiring environment. The program is designed to challenge you, spark your curiosity and provide you with a strong foundation that will help you succeed in future studies and career choices. If you are passionate about learning and ready to explore new possibilities, this program is the perfect place to start.

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