Meet Manpreet Saini
Manpreet Saini
Program
Fourth-year Faculty of Science (Honours Specialization in Computer Science)
Home Country
India
Involvement with Western International
Global Café Activities Coordinator
My research focus
My academic research and honours thesis focus on understanding institutions and career pathways within public-sector organizations using large-scale datasets. Through my thesis, I analyzed administrative data and external registries to identify patterns in organizational movement, decision-making, and professional networks. I’ve always been curious about the stories hidden in data. What began as an interest in coding quickly evolved into a passion for using data to understand people, systems, and real-world outcomes. Seeing how analytical insights can inform policy, business decisions, and social impact is what ultimately drew me to this field.
Why I chose Western
I chose Western because it offered the best of both worlds: a strong Computer Science program, meaningful co-op and experiential learning opportunities, and a campus culture full of purple pride and Mustang spirit. What really stood out to me was how supported I felt by faculty and mentors who genuinely care about student growth, both inside and outside the classroom. Western gave me the space to challenge myself academically while still feeling connected to a community that celebrates learning, leadership, and balance.
Highlights of my Western experience so far
Being a Residence Don has been one of the most meaningful highlights of my Western experience. It felt incredibly rewarding to support first-year students, both domestic and international, who were new to campus life and often feeling overwhelmed, lost, or far from home (just as I once was). Another unforgettable highlight was performing at the International Week Cultural Showcase, where I had the opportunity to celebrate my culture on stage alongside my close friend. Being part of a performance that brought people together through music and movement was empowering and joyful, and it reminded me how Western creates space for students to feel seen, represented, and proud of who they are. I’ve been actively involved with Western International through roles such as Launch Peer Mentor and Global Café Activities Coordinator, where I help create welcoming spaces for international students to connect, share cultures, and feel supported during their transition to Western.
My experience abroad
One experience I love to talk about is my exchange semester at the Australian National University in Fall 2023. Being an international student in Canada was already a transformative experience, but living and studying a semester abroad pushed me even further outside my comfort zone. It challenged me to adapt to a new academic culture, build friendships with people from all over the world, and embrace unfamiliar environments. Australia taught me lessons in independence and perspective that I continue to carry with me at Western.
My goals for the future
In the next five years, I see myself working at the intersection of data, technology, and impact: whether in analytics, research, or graduate studies. My goal is to use data-driven insights to solve meaningful problems while continuing to learn and grow in dynamic environments.
My advice for new students
Say yes to opportunities! Even the ones that feel a little intimidating at first. Get involved early, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Your university experience is as much about growth and connection as it is about academics.
Final thoughts
Being an international student has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of community. I’m incredibly grateful for the mentors, friends, and experiences at Western that have shaped who I am today, and I hope to give back by helping others feel just as at home.
