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EMBER

Engineering Mentorship & Bridging Education Resources: August 8th to 26th, 2022 

 
 
 
 

Registration Closed

 

Get a head start on your university career through our flexible, optional pre-University program designed to suit your needs.

EMBER prepares students who are entering their first year of Engineering, the Bachelor of Technology program, Computer Science, and Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences (iBioMed) for academic and social success. Mix and match courses and other opportunities to create your own unique, customized EMBER experience. This program is offered at no additional cost to students. 

 

What is EMBER?

JULY & AUGUST

Prepare for September through online learning modules in Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Computing designed to help you learn at your own pace. Videos will be available starting in July. 

The Avenue to Learn page for Ember is now available! Log into Avenue to Learn through https://avenue.mcmaster.ca/ 

WEEK OF AUGUST 8th to 19th, 2022

Live courses in math, chemistry, physics and computing will be offered from August 8th to 19th, 2022. As well, get to know your Fireball Family through a series of information sessions covering topics ranging from academic advising to identity-based clubs and teams.

Learn more

 Date: Week of August 22nd, 2022 

CONNECT with classmates and professors virtually in your specific program and get a taste of  McMaster's hands-on approach to education. Unique and customized workshops will be offered for Engineering, iBioMed, Computer Science and Bachelor of Technology students. These will include a range of experiences from hack-a-thons to other projects, giving you the opportunity to make new friends and learn how to work in teams.

Learn more

Learn more about EMBER

Video: 
Mac Eng’s first-year preparatory program prioritizes student wellness 

July 5, 2022

Mac Eng’s first-year preparatory program prioritizes student wellness 

McMaster Engineering’s EMBER program will help incoming students not only brush up on material, but also prepare student wellness strategies and gain confidence to make their first year a great one.

Our Goals 

Academic Success

To prepare students entering into Level 1 Faculty of Engineering programs for academic success by teaching and reinforcing foundational concepts in Math, Physics, Chemistry and Computing. 

Social Success

To prepare students entering into Level 1 Faculty of Engineering programs for social success by introducing and connecting the students to each other, upper-year students, staff, faculty member, and clubs in engineering. Get to know the #FireballFamily!

A letter from the Dean to incoming students

A letter from the Dean to incoming students

“This program is designed to ease your worries. It will support you, help you make the transition to university a smooth one and will welcome you a little early to the Fireball Family.” 

 - Heather Sheardown, Dean, Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University  

Courses

Learn the foundational concepts of engineering with courses on Math, Physics, and Chemistry. You are encouraged to customize your learning experience. Courses are offered in two formats: real-time and pre-recorded. You can also register for one, two, three or all four courses. Courses will be taken through Avenue to Learn. 

Each course will include online modules featuring videos, quizzes and interactive activities & opportunity to interact with upper-year engineering students through live online tutorials.

Mathematics 

From Functions to Limits and Derivatives. 

 

Functions

  • Evaluate and solve various types of functions: logarithmic, exponential, polynomial, rational
  • Connect equations of functions to graphs
  • Evaluate and solve inequalities
  • Using functions to solve problems

 Trigonometry

  • Determine and apply trigonometric ratios
  • Understand and apply radian measures
  • Connect equations to graphs of trigonometric functions
  • Solve problems involving trigonometric functions

Limits and Derivatives

  • Understand rate of change at a point
  • Understand the concept and properties of limits and derivatives
  • Connect equations of functions and their derivatives to graphs
  • Solve problems using derivatives

Geometry and Vectors

  • Represent vectors algebraically and geometrically
  • Perform operations with vectors
  • Describe lines and planes using linear, scalar, vector, and parametric equations
 

Physics 

From Kinematics to Gravitational, Electric and Magnetic Fields.

Kinematics

  • Understand and solve problems relating to uniform and non-uniform linear motion in one and two dimensions
  • Apply concepts related to kinematics to analyze real-life technologies

Dynamics

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the forces involved in uniform circular motion and motion in a plane
  • Solve problems related to forces involved in uniform circular motion and motion in a plane

Forces

  • Understand and apply concepts related to Newton’s laws, net force, acceleration, and mass to solve problems
  • Understand the relationship between velocity and unbalanced forces

 Energy and Momentum

  • Demonstrate an understanding of and solve problems relating to work, energy, momentum, and the laws of conservation of energy and conservation of momentum, in one and two dimensions.

Gravitational, Electric and Magnetic Fields

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts, properties, principles, and laws related to gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields and their interactions with matter
  • Solve problems related to gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields

Chemistry

From Ideal Gas Law to Thermochemistry.

 

Ideal Gas Law

  • Demonstrate understanding of the laws that explain the behavior of gases
  • Investigate and solve problems relating to gas laws and behavior of gases 

Acid and Bases

  • Understand the Arrenhenius theory of acid and bases
  • Understand and solve problems related to degree of ionization, strong and weak acids/bases
  • Understand and perform calculations related to buffer solutions

 Structure and Properties of Matter

  • Investigate the molecular shapes and physical properties of various types of matter
  • Demonstrate an understanding of atomic structure and chemical bonding, and how they relate to the physical properties of ionic, molecular, covalent network, and metallic substances.

Chemical Reactions

  • Investigate and solve problems related to energy changes and rates of reactions in physics and chemical processes

Chemical Equilibrium

  • Understand concepts relating to chemical systems at equilibrium and variables that cause shifts in equilibrium
  • Solve problems related to chemical systems and dynamic equilibrium using the Le Chatelier’s principle, equilibrium constants, pH, and ionization constant of water

Electrochemistry

  • Demonstrate understanding and solve problems related to oxidation-reduction reactions
  • Demonstrate understanding and solve problems related to a galvanic cell and electrochemical reactions

Thermochemistry

  • Investigate concepts related to the laws of thermodynamics, enthalpy, entropy and free energy
  • Solve problems on heats of reaction and chemical equilibrium in terms of enthalpy, entropy and free energy
 

Computing

From Introduction to Programming to Functions 

Introduction to Programming
  • Algorithms
  • Flowcharts
  • Computer Architecture
  • Statement-by-statement Execution
Variables and Expressions
  • Variables
  • Expressions
  • Printing and input
  • Lists 
If Statements
  •  If statements structure
  •  Algorithms with if-statements 
Loops
  • Loop control structures
  • Algorithms with loops
Nested Structures
  • Nested control structures
  • Nested loops and if-statements
Functions
  • Creating and using functions
  • Parameters, arguments, return values

Schedule

The program consists of self-paced learning modules and daily, live, interactive tutorials led by upper year engineering students.  The tutorials will further explain concepts, work through problems and reinforce the concepts from the online modules.

Tutorials in math, physics and chemistry will be offered during six different time slots each day. During the 30 minute breaks, there will be presentations from faculty members, current students and our clubs and teams. 

Sign up for a different session for each course you are registering for as the tutorial sessions run simultaneously. 

Proposed EMBER schedule for August 8th to 19th, 2022.

Fireball Family Events 

 

Fireball Family Events will take place everyday from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM during the two weeks of tutorial. Join us to learn more about what McMaster has to offer!

 

 Family Fireball Event Schedule, 2022

 

Events coming soon!

Take McMaster BuzzFeed Quiz! 

Interested in what McMaster Engineering club or team you should get involved with? 

TAKE THE QUIZ NOW

EMBER CONNECT

 
 

EMBER CONNECT is offered during the third week. It gives students in each specific program (Engineering, Computer Science, Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, and Bachelor of Technology) the chance to participate in workshops and to connect directly with future classmates, professors, and upper-year students. Activities will include a hackathon or designathon, workshops, and social events. The workshops will be directly applicable to each program. Learn more below.

After registering for CONNECT through the EMBER registration portal, a separate form will be sent to students to register for the specific workshops they would like to attend.

For more information about CONNECT week, visit the Engineering 1, B.Tech, CompSci Connect Page

For more information about iBioMed CONNECT please visit the iBioMed Connect Page.

 
 

Student Testimonials 

Read about AJ's and Kavya's EMBER experience and how it led them both to a successful first-year

Summer 2021 Participants

Clarissa, Engineering 1

Clarissa, Engineering 1

“EMBER was a great way to solidify my knowledge while figuring out how to learn in a new fast paced environment. The LRA's made going to tutorials something I looked forward to, and they were always willing to answer questions about content, university life, or even just chat. I am so glad that I participated in EMBER, as I feel much more confident going into the start of first year!”

Halima, Engineering 1

Halima, Engineering 1

“I loved being able to receive in-depth learning through the modules, tutorials and practice assessments which allowed me to focus my time on each course based on my comfort level. All of the LRAs were super friendly and I really appreciated the flexibility of being able to attend live-sessions and also re-watching the recorded sessions for further clarity. Most of all, I really loved getting to interact with other incoming students, attending the fireball family events & getting to ask upper-years questions ranging from course material to study tips and advice. This has been a great welcome to the MacEng community and I can't wait to see what else this program has in store for us!”

Nihal, Computer Science

Nihal, Computer Science

“EMBER was the perfect build up to what the courses would look like in the first year. With friendly and excellent LRA's , the EMBER program was able to help us interact and learn different concepts ranging from Computers , Physics , Maths and Chemistry. The support was second to none , and would do it all over again. Well done!!”

Emeline, iBioMed

Emeline, iBioMed

“Participating in EMBER was a great way to brush up on old content, as well as check for any learning gaps I had before entering my first year at McMaster in the iBioMed program! It helped me feel a lot more prepared, and I'd definitely recommend it for any incoming first years.”

Summer 2020 Participants 

Joel, Engineering 1

Joel, Engineering 1

"After having our year cut short, I was nervous that I wouldn't be prepared for university since my classes didn't go as in depth after we went online. EMBER helped me feel more prepared entering into my first year, and gave me a nice refresher on content I was rusty on."

Madelyn, Automation Engineering Technology

Madelyn, Automation Engineering Technology

"I found EMBER to be a great resource going into my first year. I feel much more confident that I know everything I need to for my classes. The LRAs were all helpful and the live tutorials really brought insight to the information provided in the modules."

Allison, Engineering I

Allison, Engineering I

"I loved being able to interact with my peers and with upper-year students during the live tutorials, talking about everything from academics, to work-life balancing tips. EMBER gave me confidence in my academics, and eased much of the worry I had going into first year. It was incredible getting to know everything that McMaster has to offer through each day's live presentation. The online modules were comprehensive and easy to follow, and the LRAs were wonderful, friendly, as well as knowledgeable!"

Noor, iBioMed

Noor, iBioMed

"I loved everything about EMBER, it was everything I needed after I graduated from another country and took a gap year. I was really worried that I wouldn't know as much as what the other students knew. So much time and effort was put into EMBER, and I will always be grateful for that."

Registration

 

Registration Closed

Avenue to Learn and Microsoft Teams

Get familiar with the platforms you will be using with this helpful how-to video. 

 

 
Video: 

Meet Your Mentors

Get to know the people who will be guiding you throughout the EMBER program. 

Alexander Kim

Program/Year: Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Etobicoke

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Inclusive

What advice would you share to a prospective student? Take a deep breath, you're in the right place. Don't be too hard on yourself, take breaks and find a healthy balance between your academic and social life. Don't be afraid to ask for help and speak up for yourself, there are plenty of resources at McMaster to take advantage of.

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? At McMaster I have been a part of many intramural teams such as spikeball, dodgeball and ultimate frisbee. I am also a part of the McMaster Synthetic Biology Team. The best thing about being involved is that these extra-curriculars serve as a chance to apply things learned in class to real life settings or the chance to play sports with friends.

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I am a big fan of musicals and passionate about sneakers. 

Avani Amin

Program/Year: Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Caledon

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Embracing

What advice would you share to a prospective student? Keep an open mind, reach out to upper years, and get involved in the McMaster engineering community.

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? I have attended events held by the McMaster Engineering Society and the iBiomed Society. It is a great opportunity to meet students from your cohort and upper years as well!

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I love baking, my favourite thing to bake (and eat) is peach cobbler!

Ethan Cavallin

Program/Year: Mechatronics Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Caledon

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Welcoming

What advice would you share to a prospective student? As scary as it is, get out there and try new things! Meet new people, step out of your comfort zone, and have fun! The Mac Eng community is so incredibly kind and friendly, making it that much easier for you to explore and make new friends. Also, don't be afraid to set aside time from your studies for breaks; university is all about balance, so make time to enjoy the little things. That led to some of my favourite memories!

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? This past year I was a member of the EcoCAR CAVS team, and I also worked extensively with the second year Mechatronics Engineering Representative to organize/host events, review sessions, and other activities. My favourite part about being involved has been the people I've met and built friendships with, as well as the new opportunities available to me because of my involvement.

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I love music! I play trombone and sing a little too, making me a certified band geek.

Katie DeMelo

Program/Year: Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, Level IV

Hometown: Hamilton

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Exciting

What advice would you share to a prospective student? Take all the chances you can to get involved and meet new people, get to know your professors and classmates and don't be afraid to try new things! 

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? I have done both technical and non-technical clubs/teams from the Medical Engineering Design team to the Women's Waterpolo team. Being involved has been a great way to get more than just academics out of my degree. Clubs and teams are great at helping to destress and an awesome way to meet new people. My favorite part of being involved is all the different people I have met that I may not have known from just attending classes.

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I love plants and have recently started growing my collection!

Pako Musa

Program/Year: Chemical Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Gaborone, Botswana

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Hospitable

What advice would you share to a prospective student?  Undergraduate years come and go, so enjoy every bit of your experience. Apart from just doing well in academics, meet new people through engaging in clubs and networking events. Finding balance is essential in making sure you optimize your learning experience without feeling emotionally and physically drained. Most of the time, you are doing way better than you think, so relax and have fun.

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? I enjoy football (soccer), so I joined the 7-aside intramural during the Fall of second year. Engineering can be overwhelming at times, so I used it as a way of refreshing, keeping fit, while meeting new buddies. I am also part of the McMaster Chemecar Club where I've met a lot of great peers as well. It has helped me to connect with upper year students and professors as well!

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I play the bass guitar by ear.

Peter Kosir

Program/Year: Mechatronics Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Guelph

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Challenging

What advice would you share to a prospective student? Don’t forget to eat properly, get out for walks as often as you can, and keep a group of people close to you so that if you struggle you can struggle together.

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? I’ve helped out with MES events such as Club Fest and participated in pub nights and socials whenever I could. My favourite aspect has been meeting different people and learning about their experience in engineering!

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I like doing music and challenging myself by learning difficult songs on the piano, which I take as inspiration for digital music creation!

Sharanya Srirangam

Program/Year: Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Cambridge

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Inclusive

What advice would you share to a prospective student? Talk to upper years and sign up to be a mentee! A few mentorship programs that I signed up for were from the iBioMed Society, MES, Women in STEM, and Women in Engineering Society. Upper years can guide you, give you advice and provide tips to make your first year more enjoyable.

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? I was a first-year representative for the Women in Engineering Society and helped host a stream selection event for first year female-identifying students. I have been a content creator and a TikTok committee leader, while also helping with recruitment as an iBioMed ambassador. My favourite aspect of being involved has been making memories and meeting new people!

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I play the flute.

Xinchi Yan

Program/Year: Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Level III

Hometown: Toronto

Describe McMaster Engineering in one word: Supportive

What advice would you share to a prospective student? Engineering is not going to be easy but it is still necessary to maintain a school-personal life balance. Make sure to reach out for help when you need to because the McMaster Engineering Community is amazing. Getting involved and attending events are great ways to meet new people and make new friends who will be with you throughout your entire uni adventure.

How have you immersed yourself in the extra-curricular life and what has been your favourite aspect being involved? I enjoy volunteering because it is a great way to contribute to the community and learn new skills. This summer, I will be volunteering at a research lab and learning about cardiovascular mechanics.

What's something special and fun we should know about you? I love music. I can play the piano and the tenor sax.

Questions?

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FAQs

You can register for EMBER here. We have not decided on the deadline yet.

EMBER is focused on helping students get caught up to speed for the required courses in Physics, Math, and Chemistry. No new information beyond the high school curriculum will be taught. Also this year, EMBER has a new Computing course that introduces the basics of programming. It assumes no previous programming knowledge and is meant to give students confidence as they enter their first year where computing will be introduced.

There are four courses to choose from in EMBER (Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Computing). Each course consists of asynchronous modules and live tutorials. The asynchronous content varies in duration between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours for each module. These are pre-recorded modules that students can do on their own time throughout the summer. The live tutorial sessions, occurring between August 9th to August 20th, are each approximately 50 minutes in length.

Connect week will have in-person workshops with a livestream option.

Yes, students can choose to register for one, two, three, or all four courses.

During the real-time tutorial sessions, the EMBER courses run every day at the listed times provided during registration. If you are registering for more than one course, be sure to choose different time slots for each course to build your schedule for the two weeks.

Yes! Even if you are unable to attend any of the live tutorials, you can still register for EMBER and sign up for any time slot for each course for you to get access to the course’s recorded sessions. You can choose to watch the recorded sessions at your earliest convenience.

If you have signed up for a time you can no longer attend, make sure to email us at ember@mcmaster.ca and we can assign you to another time slot that suits your schedule. Moreover, if you need to attend a different time for a specific day because of scheduling issues, we are happy to accommodate, just send us an email!

We do not have a section dedicated to waves but we will cover oscillatory motion and simple harmonic motion.

EMBER is an optional program, so there are no penalties if a student does not attend the live sessions. One daily session from each course will be recorded and posted for students to view at their earliest convenience.

Yes, the times you choose while you register will be your tutorial times every day for the two weeks. Therefore, if you are choosing to take more than one course, you should make sure to sign up for different tutorial times for those courses.

The courses will be up on Avenue to Learn starting Monday, July 19. Please keep checking your email for updates.

Click Here to Access Avenue to Learn

Come attend the EMBER Information Session on Tuesday, July 20 at 11:00 am to learn all about how the EMBER program will be run this year! The link for this session will be made available on Avenue when the courses are live.