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PURDUE POLYTECHNIC
Hands-on learning, including industry-sponsored class projects and experiential learning — enhanced by a community of doers, makers, and problem-solvers.
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With every Polytechnic class, I had a group project where we had to do some form of hands-on work. This helped me develop hands-on skills as well as the ability to work with others from many different backgrounds, and my internships gave me real industry experience that helped me get the job I wanted."
Purdue and the Polytechnic both helped me by giving me a thorough understanding of IT topics and issues, as well as many applicable skills which I can use to get a running start with my career. In classes, it always felt like a family or a team tackling a challenge as one."
All of my hands-on classes and the opportunity to learn intuitively have set me apart from other job candidates."
In my interviews, it was so easy to think of examples where I had not only learned about a topic, but had implemented a complex project with a diverse group of students that highlighted the skill-sets companies were looking for alongside my project management abilities. I wouldn’t trade the past four years for anything in the world."
The Polytechnic provided me with so many opportunities to dive into the real-life applications of the theory we discussed in lectures. These experiences led to internships, and the internships led to job opportunities!"
I started my job in January, and I love being an engineer! My time at Purdue taught me how to stay focused and dedicated to a goal. Leaving my original path in nursing was a difficult decision, but I never regretted choosing Purdue Polytechnic for my engineering technology degree."
My experiences in the Polytechnic and at Purdue have prepared me well, building a diverse knowledge base of theoretical, technical and hands-on skills as well as the ability to continue learning and adapting. Something I will take with me is the desire to learn, get my hands dirty, and truly experience the work I am doing while asking questions and looking for support when I need it."
The NROTC program at Purdue prepared me to take on leadership roles and set me on a path to becoming a Naval Officer. Professors like Don Barnes and Corben Meyer inspired me to pursue my dreams and gave me the support I needed to reach them."
The Purdue name helped me extend my reach when applying to jobs. Companies recognize Purdue as a leader in education, producing skilled individuals. Through hands-on learning and industry professional access, I knew these experiences would set me apart and make me uniquely qualified for my new job."
The UX program helped me become a stronger communicator, and working with Paul Parsons taught me how to research effectively—skills that are key for managing projects and client relationships."
Not only did I get valuable experience in CAD software during my time at Purdue Polytechnic, but I also learned how to take strategic and conceptual approaches to design."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with the experience I needed to succeed, and inspired me to pursue unorthodox opportunities. Harley Barta, my department’s student success coordinator, has been especially important to me. She is a mentor, a challenger, an advocate and a lifelong friend."
The hands-on experience working with turbine engines, airframes and electrical systems has helped me gain a great understanding of many aspects of aviation and gas/power systems. Professor Barnes and Dr. Davis have been hugely supportive and influential in helping me learn and achieve my goals."
Working directly with equipment and troubleshooting in lab settings gave me the confidence to handle real-life manufacturing conditions. At Purdue Polytechnic, t wasn’t just theory—we practiced what we learned, which made the transition into industry feel familiar and manageable."
I was always intimidated by statistics, but the faculty made it very approachable and I apply many of those concepts to my job. For the same reason, I also appreciated the focus on international relations—the study abroad trip with James Tanoos was an amazing experience I’ll always remember."
Purdue Polytechnic allowed me to pursue my education at an accelerated pace while working full-time in the industry. I would also like to thank my parents and husband for their continuous support, and for challenging me to go outside my comfort zone as an engineer."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with a strong foundation in organizational leadership, equipping me with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills for a dynamic business environment. The Polytechnic’s emphasis on experiential learning and real-world application helped me develop adaptability, collaboration, and leadership—skills that align with the Orr Fellowship’s focus on professional growth and impact-driven work."
Tech 101, Women in Technology, shaped my college experience and gave me a support system where I could connect with others that were like me."
Any flight school can teach a student how to fly, but the soft skills learned through the various courses offered within this degree has set me up to excel further than any other track I may have chosen to reach the airlines. Purdue does not train “normal” pilots — it trains professional aviators that shape the future of our industry."
My study abroad experience in Costa Rica helped me develop adaptability, problem-solving skills and a global perspective, all of which are valuable in my new role. Professor Sudip Vhaduri supported me by offering the chance to work as a teaching assistant for the Database Fundamentals class, strengthening my technical skills and confidence."
