Sina Ahmadi Malayeri is working to complete his Master of Engineering (MEng) in Civil & Mineral Engineering at the University of Toronto, specializing in Construction Management and the ELITE emphasis. Originally from Iran, Sina joined the program in September 2024 and about to conclude his academic program. We spoke with him about his academic journey, student life, and reflections on graduate studies.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Sina Ahmadi Malayeri. I’ll soon be completing my studies as an MEng student in Civil & Mineral Engineering, with emphases in Construction Management and Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Innovation and Technology in Engineering (ELITE). I’ve completed my coursework and am currently waiting for my convocation in June.
Why did you choose the Department of Civil and Mineral Engineering, and why U of T?
When I was exploring options for graduate studies, I was looking for a university with a strong global reputation and a solid foundation in engineering. Beyond that, I wanted a place that helped bridge industry and academia. Engineering, for me, has always been more than technical problem-solving. The human side is often overlooked.
U of T stood out because it gave me the opportunity to focus on leadership, communication, conflict resolution and the human dimension of engineering. The ELITE emphasis is a great example of this. The flexibility of the MEng program also played a major role. I had the autonomy to choose courses aligned with my academic and professional journey rather than following a rigid path. Among seven other offers, U of T checked all the boxes.
You mentioned having several other offers. Where were they, and why did you choose Canada?
I had offers from universities in the United States, Netherlands and Canada. What drew me to Canada, and specifically U of T, was the multicultural environment. Being in classrooms with students from different academic backgrounds and cultures creates diverse perspectives and ways of thinking. That diversity inevitably shapes how you grow as an engineer. Learning the same topic through multiple global and disciplinary lenses is incredibly enriching.
Where did you move from, and how has your experience in Toronto been?
I’m Iranian. I moved to Canada in September 2024 and currently live in Toronto.
I love Toronto, especially its cultural diversity. There’s always something happening, including festivals, food, events and people from all over the world. The winters can be harsh, but I enjoy them. The city offers a vibrant experience, both socially and culturally, which has made my time here very rewarding.
How was your transition to Canada and settling into the program?
The transition wasn’t easy. The immigration process for Iranians can be quite challenging, but academically, U of T offered a lot of support. I was already familiar with the university from a visit in 2018, and when I decided to pursue graduate studies, I spent time researching rankings and program details.
The information sessions and detailed course descriptions on the U of T website were especially helpful. By the start of my first semester, I already had a strong sense of the courses I wanted to take. While plans evolved once I arrived, those resources gave me clarity and confidence going in.
What have been your favourite courses?
Since I pursued both Construction Management and ELITE, my favourite courses came from both areas.
In Construction Management, I especially enjoyed Engineering Management of Large Projects by Professor Daeho Kim and The Business of Knowledge in Civil Engineering by Professor Tamer E. El-Diraby.These courses provided a broader perspective on how large-scale civil engineering projects impact society, industries, and the economy. This is something we often overlook when focusing heavily on technical design.
In ELITE, Cognitive and Psychological Foundations of Effective Leadership by Robin Sacks was outstanding. I’ve recommended it to more than 20 people. Another favourite was The Science of Emotional Intelligence and Its Application to Leadership by Danny Cushing. These courses were transformative and helped me explore strengths I hadn’t fully recognized before.
Do you have any favourite places on campus?
I’m a big fan of gothic architecture, and U of T’s St. George campus feels like Hogwarts. Some of my favourite spots include Knox Library, University College, Hart House, and Trinity College. Each has a different atmosphere and offers a great study environment.
How has your student life been outside of academics?
Very active and colorful. Beyond academics, I wanted to contribute to the community. I volunteered on several committees, including student advisory groups, and served as a director on the board of the University of Toronto Graduate Students’ Union.
I’m also involved in mentorship programs and student clubs. I founded and ran the University of Toronto chapter of Startup Ecosystem Canada, a national organization focused on entrepreneurship and innovation. I am also a part of the AI Collective hosting events that explore the real-world applications of AI in civil engineering and real estate. I also worked as a peer leadership facilitator while completing my studies.
My days often included classes, workshops, social activities, and meetings, all in one day. U of T offers countless opportunities if you’re willing to ask the right questions and get involved.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m currently in a transition phase, exploring opportunities that align with my values and interests. I’m looking to move into industry to apply what I’ve learned and see real-world outcomes. After years in academia, it’s time to put theory into action and continue learning through experience.
Do you have any advice for prospective or incoming students?
If you’re thinking about applying, just do it. U of T’s academic reputation is well known, but beyond that, it offers incredible opportunities through events, alumni networks, and industry engagement.
My biggest advice is be open to things beyond academics alone. It is very common to get buried in academics; it happens, and it is completely normal. If you can, explore activities outside the classroom. Personally, I would rather graduate with a strong GPA and a rich, balanced experience than focus solely on grades. University is not just about studying. It’s about building, testing, connecting and growing. If you’re not enjoying the journey, something needs to change.
I remember days when I had classes in the morning, workshops at noon, played hide and seek in University College in this very building [Galbraith Building], and ended the night with a board meeting or a similar commitment.
It is a colorful experience, with so many things to explore. If you ask the right questions, there is so much the university has to offer. I remember the very first day I came to U of T and saw the campus. I thought, “I put in the effort to get here. Now it’s your turn. Show me what you’ve got.” So far, it has not disappointed.
Watch Sina’s video: