Becoming a Boilermaker: Application Tips



The start of the fall season is upon us, and that means here at Purdue the leaves are starting to change colors, and the weather is beginning to cool off. This also means that the date to apply to Purdue’s priority deadline for Fall 2023 is quickly approaching. Unlike in the past, Purdue Engineering, along with a few other programs here at Purdue are treating this deadline differently. The November 1st deadline is not only the deadline to be eligible for Purdue’s merit scholarships, but also is now the priority deadline. Priority deadline means applications may continue to be accepted after November 1st only as space allows. With that here are some tips and helpful things to think about as you finish up your Purdue application.




Tip #1: Don’t Rush the Essay

The essay is not something you will want to rush through. This is your biggest opportunity to let who you are shine through to admissions. Not only do you want good content, but the structure and organization of the essay is just as important. Take the time to read through and check for spelling and grammar mistakes, or sentences that don’t flow well together. When it comes to content, try to avoid clichés, really dig in to find a way to highlight you. There are many topics to choose from so find what fits you best. Purdue has some more advice on making your essay stand out, that you can find here

Tip #2: Choose Recommendations Carefully

The right recommendation can really help to highlight who you are. It’s best to choose someone who knows you well, and who really knows your character. When I was finding my recommendations, I thought of who knew me from multiple areas of my life. One of mine came from a teacher that I had for multiple years, in multiple classes, who also was our NHS director. I could trust that she was going to give a real, and honest recommendation that encompassed who I was as both a student and a leader in the community. Great recommendations can come from many different types of people, just make sure they really know who you are.

Tip #3: Know Purdue

Its important to really know Purdue, and what about it attracts you to the school. Knowing Purdue will help when answering the Purdue specific short answer questions. The best way to do this is by doing research. Take time to learn more about how our engineering program is structured, and clubs or organizations that you may want to be a part of. Showing that you understand Purdue and are excited for things that Purdue has to offer, will help admissions see that Purdue isn’t just another school you are applying to. For me I knew that all that the Women in Engineering Program has to offer was very important to me, so I made that known in my Purdue short answers.

Tip #4: Submit all Required Materials

It is important that you do not leave your application incomplete. Ensure that you upload all the necessary materials for the application. For the application, you must make sure you complete all application questions, including Purdue specific questions, and the Common App essay question. Also include letters of recommendation, as well as self-reporting class grades and test scores. Visit https://www.admissions.purdue.edu/apply/criteriafreshmen.php to get more information on what needs to be submitted with the application.

Overall, the big thing about the application is to highlight who you are and what is really important to you. This is your chance to help admissions see into your life and let them meet the real you.

Visit https://www.admissions.purdue.edu/apply/index.php to get access to resources about deadlines, application requirements, scholarships, and AP/IB/Dual Credit Transfers.

Most importantly, do not forget the November 1st deadline, to ensure the chance for Purdue to get to know you!

Boiler Up!

Alena Megregian, Civil Engineering

WE Link Leadership Team


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