Weighing Your Options - What to Consider While Choosing a School

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Choosing between schools can be a great feat. There are many aspects of college that are important to weigh when picking your future home. I know, when I was in this position, I was nervous about choosing the right school that would fit my needs. However, I am here to make this decision slightly easier by telling you what to consider while choosing your path for the next four years, and how Purdue fulfilled all of my aspirations.

Community

For my college experience, the presence of a strong community was necessary. I wanted to feel like I belonged as soon as I stepped foot on campus and avoid the dreaded imposter syndrome. I am happy to report that Purdue, specifically the Women in Engineering Program, welcomed me with open arms. As soon as I was admitted, I received support from the Women in Engineering Program, ensuring that I belonged at Purdue. Even as I was moving into campus, I felt a strong community immediately by living in the Women in Engineering Living and Learning Community located in Meredith South. Even now as an upperclassman, I feel supported with the multiple opportunities the Women in Engineering Program provides, such as the Mentees and Mentors Program, Access Alums, free tutoring, and so much more. Overall, the Women in Engineering Program gives such a strong sense of community to make a large school feel small.

Culture

Another important aspect to choosing a future school is the culture around campus. Along with a strong community, a strong sense of culture can make one feel like they belong on a particular campus. Purdue has many amazing traditions that build a sense of culture and belonging. Some of my favorite include sporting events, particularly basketball. The chants and cheers that erupt in Mackey arena are absolutely electrifying and create an exciting atmosphere.

In addition to sporting events, Purdue’s Grand Prix Race is another tradition in which many students participate. The Grand Prix Race, also known as "the greatest spectacle in college racing,” is an annual kart race that began in 1958. These karts are built be different clubs, programs, residence halls, and many more organizations. It is a great application of engineering principles, innovation, and spirit.

Programs and Clubs

Purdue has over 1,000 student organizations allowing everyone to find their interests. For me, choosing a school with many clubs was essential as I wanted to find people who share similar interests as me. If there is not a club with your interests, Student Activities and Organizations allow students to launch new clubs meeting their interests. Personally, I wanted to continue athletics from high school, so joining intramural sports was a simple decision. It was a great way for me to stay active and meet new people. I look forward to my intramural games every week!

Opportunities

Lastly, I wanted to ensure the school I chose set me up for success; I can confidently say that Purdue does just that. With many career fairs, such as Industrial Roundtable and Expo Career Fair, there are plenty of opportunities to obtain an internship or co-op. In addition to the career fairs, there are also chances to speak with Purdue Alumnae through networking events, such Access Alums hosted by the Women in Engineering Program. There are also many seminars in which employers will come to talk to students. Purdue ensures that you are set up with the tools to launch a successful career.

All in all, it is important to weigh factors that are important to you in order to chose the school that fits the best for your needs. Looking at the communities, cultures, organizations, and opportunities provided by a school was what was most important to me. When considering all of my needs, it was clear that Purdue University was going to support me in all aspects that mattered to me.

Isa Hollenstein, BME '26
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 

Purdue Women in Engineering

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