The Engineering Experience

Dear Recent High School Graduate, Saying the last four years have flown by is an understatement. It feels like just yesterday I was starting this journey, arriving on campus for the first time, nervous of the unknown yet excited about what the future held for me. Yet just four days ago, I walked across the stage at Elliot and received my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, ending my undergraduate journey, and preparing to start a new chapter of my life. Once again, I find myself nervous yet excited as I start this new chapter of my life, similar to where I was four years ago. I won’t lie to you: I delayed writing this blog. Not because I did not want to or did not know what I wanted to say, but because writing this blog meant that I had to admit that this incredible chapter of my life was over. Purdue has truly become a second home to me over the years, and I would not trade this experience for the world. Before you come to campus and get your chance at living your own versi...

At Purdue, I have had the privilege of learning from Professor Yih. Beyond teaching technical concepts, she has shared invaluable life lessons that have left a lasting impact on me. She is an incredibly accomplished professor who genuinely cares about her students and colleagues. Her career and character set a powerful example of what is possible in the field of engineering. I am honored to share her inspiring story with you. Background Professor Yih was born and raised in Taiwan. She believes that she has always possessed the “engineering mindset.” She recalls that, as a child, she would map out her route through the grocery store to make it as efficient as possible, minimizing the time spent carrying heavy items. Industrial engineering concepts were deeply rooted in her from an early age. She received her BS in Industrial Engineering from National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan in 1984. During her ungraduated studies, she was one of few female students. Since she arrived at the campu...