Hands-on learning, including industry-sponsored class projects and experiential learning — enhanced by a community of doers, makers, and problem-solvers.
(noun) 21st century: An academic college at a world-class university that uses innovative learning methods, real-world experiences, and industry partnerships to produce graduates uniquely qualified for technology-driven careers.
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."
By my sophomore year, I was completing labs with enterprise-grade networking equipment. The knowledge I gained in labs set me apart when applying for internships, which in turn helped me fill my resume with corporate experience before graduating from Purdue."
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."
Choosing the Purdue Polytechnic Institute created an amazing network of friends and peers that helped propel me to a successful career. The Polytechnic feels like a home away from home, and in this environment I have excelled."
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."
Purdue Polytechnic made me industry-ready from day one. From user research to UI design, every course gave me practical skills that translated directly to real-world product development—especially on projects like my senior Capstone, where I designed a portable DJing feature for Spotify."
The School of Engineering Technology does a great job covering the wide range of jobs I could have gone into, including manufacturing, quality control, and even theory-based jobs. Nearly all of the recruiters I have talked to are ecstatic to learn about the hands-on experience I received."
Purdue and the Polytechnic gave me all the resources I needed to stand on my own two feet and be confident in myself. All of my favorite projects gave me real-world experience and feedback from industry professionals. They pushed me past my comfort zone, and from that I’ve been able to grow into a man that is ready to enter the workforce."
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 gave me a solid foundation in construction management and the chance to apply what I learned through internships. Courses like Construction Materials and Methods and the Capstone project gave me real-world skills, while mentors like Toni Munguia and Danny Wyman helped me grow into a confident and capable professional."
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."
Purdue’s hands-on experience with large category aircraft, paired with the opportunity to work on the same aircraft used in the industry, uniquely prepared me for my future career. Professors like Dr. Ropp and Professor Barnes emphasized the importance of passion and precision, which has shaped my work ethic. My study abroad in Paris remains one of my most cherished experiences, sparking my love for culture and travel."
Purdue and the Polytechnic Institute have given me the opportunity to work with a wide variety of electrical and control systems for different use cases. The classes that I feel helped prepare me the most for my career were Intro to Industrial Controls and Embedded Digital Systems."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with numerous opportunities to hone my technical skills, from web development to video editing. My experiences in class and as an editor for the K-Pop club on campus (VariAsian) prepared me for my role. Professors like Esteban Garcia were also incredibly supportive, helping me balance my academic and personal responsibilities."
Purdue’s broad curriculum allowed me to explore various areas of IT, helping me find the perfect fit in systems administration. My experience working with Purdue IT, especially with Active Directory and troubleshooting, has prepared me well for my new role. Classes like CNIT 242, CNIT 344, and CNIT 345 emphasized the importance of systems integration and documentation, while Professor Deadman’s real-world-focused classes helped me see the bigger picture in IT."
Interacting with other students in group activities helped simulate real teamwork situations you may face at work. My instructors did a great job relating lessons to real work experiences; I gained the knowledge as well as the confidence needed to be successful in my career."
By having such a hands-on experience, I was able to show what I learned and how I could apply it in my job. The countless projects, team experiences, and the well-rounded education I had helped to showcase how qualified I am for the job."
Purdue Polytechnic gave me real, hands-on exposure to the construction industry from day one. Courses like CM 150 and 450 helped me understand what actually happens on a jobsite, while electives in sales and entrepreneurship strengthened my communication skills and business mindset—both of which will help me succeed in client-focused project roles."
Not everyone comes into this major with preexisting construction experience, and you gain that knowledge through labs and internships that serve as preparation for a variety of trades. I enjoyed the times when industry professionals came to our courses, and they provided many unforgettable lessons."
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!"