Master of Engineering Systems and Technology student Shiyu (Shannon) Chen has turned challenges as an international student into a mission to help others undertaking similar journeys
When Shiyu (Shannon) Chen left her six-year career as a software engineer in China to pursue graduate studies at McMaster University in 2023, she knew the transition wouldn’t be easy. What she didn’t anticipate was how her personal struggles would inspire her to become an advocate for international students across campus.
In the past year, Chen’s dedication has paid off, remarkably. She’s won three major awards: McMaster Co-op Student of the Year, Engineering Graduate Co-op Student of the Year and more recently, the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Leadership — a recognition that reflects both her academic excellence and commitment to supporting her peers.
“These are more than awards; they represent a long journey of adapting, struggling and growing as an international student,” Chen reflects. “There were moments I doubted whether I belonged, especially when navigating cultural differences and job applications in a new country. These recognitions reassured me that I do belong, that I can contribute, lead and give back.”
Inspired by AI innovation
Chen’s journey to McMaster was driven by her passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and her recognition of AI’s impact across industries. “Over the years, I witnessed how quickly AI was transforming industries like transportation, healthcare and entertainment,” she explains. “Seeing its potential unfold around me made me realize how important it was to keep learning and growing.”
McMaster’s Master of Engineering Systems and Technology proved to be the perfect program choice, aligning with Chen’s goals of combining technical expertise with real-world applications.
Chen’s co-op experience at Alectra Utilities also proved to be a defining period. After taking the initiative to master new technologies like Power BI and Power Automate, she independently built an issue logging and backup system that remains active today. “My manager later told me he was impressed by my organizational skills, reliability and how quickly I picked things up,” Chen recalls. “Hearing that made me realize how much I had grown and that I was truly making a meaningful contribution.”
Finding and creating a community
Perhaps Chen’s most impactful work has been supporting fellow international students. Drawing from her own initial confusion about course selection, co-op applications and adjusting to life in Hamilton, she created a social group in the fall of 2024 to guide incoming international students.
“When I arrived at McMaster, I had a long list of questions and often felt unsure,” Chen explains. “I wished there was someone a little ahead of me who could guide me through it. That’s what inspired me to step up.”
Her support extends beyond formal programs. Chen provides one-on-one assistance with resumes, connects job-seeking students with referrals and shares practical resources she discovered through trial and error.
“You don’t need to have it all figured out on day one. You bring something unique — your background, your resilience, your way of thinking.”
Throughout her journey, Chen has been supported by key faculty mentors. She credits Moein Mehrtash, Program Chair, Automotive and Vehicle Engineering Technology, who supervised her eight-month Autonomous Side-Walk Robot project, with giving her first real experience in robotics and AI hardware applications. “Dr. Mehrtash gave us a lot of freedom to explore and try our ideas, but more importantly, he was always there when we needed help,” Chen notes. “He often stayed in the lab with us, helping debug problems and offering guidance.”
She also expresses gratitude to Zhen Gao, Associate Director of Graduate Studies at the W Booth School, describing him as “the kind of professor who really listens to students,” and recalls his encouraging words after receiving her awards: “Shiyu, what you’re doing is truly meaningful.”
Chen faced emotional challenges during a 10-month visa delay that kept her and her spouse apart, all while managing coursework and applying for co-op positions. She also struggled with confidence in her English during interviews, which led to missed opportunities. Eventually, she sought support from the Centre for Career Growth and Experience consultations and the MODEL English Development Program.
Looking ahead, Chen hopes to work in fields where technology directly benefits people, such as smart cities or public infrastructure. Her long-term vision includes creating sustainable mentorship platforms for international students.
“You don’t need to have it all figured out on day one,” she advises fellow and future international students. “Don’t compare your journey to others. You bring something unique — your background, your resilience, your way of thinking. You’re not here just to catch up, you’re here to contribute, lead and thrive in your own way.”
