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.
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."
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."
Thanks to my major, I have the ability to be a resource for my employer as they switch from an older system to a new software that turns out to have been a core part of my curriculum at Purdue."
Purdue Polytechnic has many student organizations that helped me grow personally and professionally throughout all four years here, like Polytechnic student ambassadors, Women in Technology, Boiler Gold Rush, Minority Technology Association, BoilerMentor, and more."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with hands-on experience and diverse knowledge of other concentrations like electrical, materials, and automation engineering. Being well-rounded and knowing how to apply my knowledge greatly helped me become qualified for my job."
Purdue Polytechnic gave me the technical knowledge and adaptability I need in a changing HR field. The support from so many mentors among both faculty and staff helped me grow into a stronger leader and professional."
All of my hands-on classes and the opportunity to learn intuitively have set me apart from other job candidates."
I am thankful for Dr. Levon Esters, Cathy Pullings, Toni Munguia and Benito Martinez. Purdue Polytechnic has made a promise to help students in any way they can. These people are just a few at the forefront of helping students find their success story, encouraging leadership, and awarding courage.
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Purdue Polytechnic's hands-on labs and challenging coursework helped me build confidence in my skills. The rigorous environment prepared me for real-world IT challenges, especially in areas like risk assessments and security policy. My internships in IT risk, governance and compliance also helped me apply what I learned in class to real industry scenarios, setting me up for success at American Express."
I feel that the School of Aviation and Transportation technology equipped me with the knowledge to succeed in my job. Special thanks are also due to the Aviation Technology Student Council—joining them as a freshman gave me the opportunity to become a leader in my own way."
My favorite class was cyber criminology with Dr. Kate, because I found the material so interesting. I could see myself focusing more on that in the future."
All of my coursework helped me prepare for my new job. The third avionics course in my major is helping me develop a well-rounded understanding of many types of avionic systems. I have also learned much regarding leadership and professionalism."
Purdue’s hands-on labs and structured courses helped me develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills specific to cybersecurity. Working with my lab partners pushed me to do my best, which gave me confidence when presenting myself to potential employers."
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."
Intro to controls system and manufacturing system integration gave me my intro to controls systems and helped prepare to lead in the industry."
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."
The Experience Studio was the most impactful part of my Purdue journey. Working on five different real-world projects with company sponsors gave me the practical skills and confidence I needed to succeed. I brought up that class in every internship and job interview—it shaped how I work, lead, and collaborate."
I was asked during the interview about my hands-on experience, which set me apart from engineering majors. I explained how I had done labs that were hands-on, learning milling and other operations that I will do at my new job. Dr. Gaurav Nanda helped me a lot as a professor—he always answered my questions and made me feel comfortable asking anything."
Purdue Polytechnic gave me invaluable hands-on experience, especially in labs that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Classes like MET 426 and MET 349, along with support from professors like Jason Ostanek and Mark French, fueled my passion for engineering. The practical knowledge I gained will be directly applicable to my new role at Fleece, where I’ll work on improving quality procedures and product testing."
Purdue Polytechnic helped me become well-rounded in both manufacturing and business concepts, which I knew would be valuable in any supply chain role. The curriculum gave me the knowledge and confidence to pursue positions in the industry. I also gained practical skills through classes like Strategic Supply Chain Management, Operations Planning and Statistical Quality Control."