Hacks to Acing Engineering

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We all know how prestigious Purdue’s College of Engineering is. It can be intimidating when thinking about the course load but with the right strategies, you can be efficient and successful! Here are some hacks to help you stay on top of your work and make the most out of the resources Purdue offers to students. 


  1. Supplemental Instruction (SI) 


When studying for an exam, it can be hard to know where to start and if you are using your time wisely. SI sessions are peer-led study sessions that provide a structured way to review material, practice problems, and ask questions. You can attend SI sessions regularly to reinforce your understanding and get ahead. 


  1. Tutoring from Women in Engineering (WiE)


If you’re looking for extra help with an assignment, project or just have a question about a problem, WiE offers excellent tutoring services specifically for engineering students. These free tutoring sessions are a great way to clear confusion you may have and strengthen your problem-solving skills. I have gone for help several times with my physics homework. We are all going to get stuck at some point and it is so nice to have people who can help me succeed!




  1. Professor/ TA office hours


Professors and TA's hold office hours for a reason- to help you succeed. Even if you don’t have specific questions, attending office hours allows you to clarify material, build relationships with faculty, and gain new knowledge on the subject. Also, showing up regularly can be beneficial when it comes to recommendation letters and networking. So don’t be afraid to use them as a resource because they are there to help you. It may seem intimidating at first but just know they want you to be there.


  1. Study Groups


During your time at Purdue, spending hours studying and working with a study group can make a difference in your studying habits. Working together as a group can help reinforce learning, see different problem-solving approaches, and it can keep you accountable. Being surrounded by people who are in the same spot as you can also remind you that you are not alone. I have made so many connections by just doing my work with others.


  1. Stay Organized


With multiple assignments, labs, exams, and projects, time management is key to succeeding. I personally use my iPad and make a weekly calendar. I write down everything I must do that week and its importance. Others get creative and use color coding to track deadlines. You may have your own process already but staying on track with everything will help you succeed!


  1. Go to Recitation 


Recitations provide an opportunity to go over homework problems, discuss key concepts, and ask questions. Engaging in recitation actively can make a significant difference in your understanding and performance in the class. 



  1. Online Resources


Purdue students have access to numerous online resources including lecture recordings, practice exams (Boilerexams), and Chenflix. I use these online resources all the time to prepare for exams or just to go back to see notes from lectures. 

 

  1. Brain Break

You may think you need to work endlessly without any breaks to be the most successful, but you should always remember to take a break. When I have been studying for a long period of time, I like to take a walk with friends around Purdue's campus or go to a Starbucks at the PMU! Doing something that will make you happy will help you destress from your school work. Those brief time periods give your brain a break and improve your mental health. 




By taking advantage of these resources, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in Purdue Engineering. Work smarter, seek help at any point, and remember that you are here for a reason. It won’t be easy, but with the help of Purdue, you can get through anything!


 

Grace Fuller FYE

Recruitment Project Committee 

 

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 



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