What It Means to Be a Purdue Engineer



    As I get ready to graduate and reflect on my previous three years with Purdue University, I’ve come to realize that the engineering program and college involvement here is truly something special. Whether it's the iconic bell chimes while students head to their next class or the late night studying sessions with friends in Armstrong Hall, Purdue always offers excitement and new discoveries. So what sets Purdue University apart from other colleges? Read more to learn about the community, network, and innovation that defines the Purdue experience!


Purdue’s Women in Engineering Program

    Of course the Women in Engineering Program (WiE) must be mentioned when thinking about Purdue Engineering and how Purdue is unlike any other. The Women in Engineering Program was created in 1969 and is the first Women in Engineering Program in the nation. Because of the Women in Engineering Program’s efforts, the enrollment rate of women within the College of Engineering has gone up to 26%. WiE has provided the resources to promote engineering to young girls and women, as well as provide opportunities to current students to develop their professional careers and aspirations. I have been involved with the Women in Engineering Program at Purdue as a prospective student as well as during my time as an undergraduate student, and I am confident in saying that WiE has shaped me to be the capable engineer I am today and has provided me with the resources I need to become successful in my future career. Learn more about the Purdue Women in Engineering Program here!

Purdue’s Boilermaker Community

    Purdue Engineering Alumni are all around the globe accomplishing various feats with their degrees, ranging from the aerospace industry to the healthcare industry. Some recognizable alumni include Neil Armstrong- the first astronaut on the moon, Lillian Gilbreth- the first lady of engineering, and Charles Ellis- the designer of the Golden Gate bridge. Companies are always impressed to see an engineering degree from Purdue University, and the successes that others have accomplished with their engineering degrees solidifies the hardwork and dedication of obtaining a Purdue degree. Purdue’s vast alumni network is also commendable since several alumni often return to campus to mentor students, offer internships, and provide career advice. The connections created through the university open doors to different career pathways and allow students to receive real-world experience and build industry connections.

Purdue’s Collaborative Culture

    Everyone within the university is excited to help others succeed, and the culture at Purdue makes the environment extremely comfortable. Students at Purdue are encouraged to collaborate in all aspects of their undergraduate career, whether it be on group projects in classes or leadership roles in extracurricular activities. The sense of camaraderie and respect among peers makes it easy to reach out for help, receive feedback, and explore new opportunities. Purdue offers a multitude of student organizations, research centers, and student employment options to make a difference in their community. Coming to Purdue, the first thing I noticed was how welcoming and inviting everyone was on campus. I immediately felt included and a part of the community, and had no trouble finding things to be involved in that interested me.

Purdue's Versatility for Your Engineering Degree

    Purdue offers 17 different engineering disciplines you can choose from for your major, and several different minors. At Purdue you can also choose to create your own engineering major through the Interdisciplinary Engineering Studies and Multidisciplinary Engineering Programs if you feel as if you want a more tailored engineering degree that fits your interests. You can also choose different engineering pathways during the First-Year Engineering Program such as EPICS (Engineering Projects in Community Service) or VIP (Vertically Integrated Projects) that allows for you to explore more ideas within community service or research and design projects. All of these options provide students with the ultimate flexibility and freedom to tailor their educational experience to match their aspirations. 

     My journey at Purdue has been nothing short of transformative. From the moment I stepped foot onto campus, I was welcomed into a community that values inclusivity and collaboration. I am so grateful for the opportunities, support, and experiences that Purdue Engineering has provided me, and I know that my degree will take me to the milestones I want to reach within my career path. If you have questions, comments or want to find more about Purdue Engineering, let us know using the links below!

Athulya Nair, ABE '24

WE Link Leadership Team


Stay Connected With Purdue WiE Program!

Facebook: Purdue Women in Engineering

Instagram: @purdue.wie

Blog: purduewiep.blogspot.com

Email: welink@purdue.edu

YouTube: Purdue Women in Engineering Program - YouTube



Use the hashtag #PurdueWiE on Facebook and Instagram!



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