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.
I have gained a solid foundation in construction principles and project management at Purdue, primarily though hands-on labs and assignments. Just as one example: when I was a new college student, it was so exciting to build the Boiler Shed alongside other students who have since become lifelong friends."
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."
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's HRD program provided a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of Human Resources and emphasized its significance in the workplace. It was instrumental in helping me articulate why HR deserves a seat at the executive table."
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."
My favorite professor was Dawn Laux. As a young woman in a technology field, it felt amazing to have a female professor who helped me further understand the world of technology."
Through Purdue’s HRD program, I gained hands-on skills in interviewing, HR laws, and applying HR concepts in real-world settings. Most importantly, the program built a strong foundation in understanding people, performance, and organizational growth that I use throughout my career."
Internship and study abroad opportunities, hands-on lab experiences, independent and team projects, leadership events, mentorship opportunities with Women in Technology and the School of Engineering Technology – all of these opportunities have made me feel like a well-rounded candidate for my upcoming job."
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."
In my time here, I was tested not only on how to understand certain information, but also to ask the right questions."
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 HRD program built my foundation in labor law, organizational behavior, and strategic talent management, while exposing me to emerging HR technologies. This preparation has been invaluable in my roles at Amazon and Angi, where I drive impactful HR initiatives."
Purdue’s HRD program accelerated my personal and academic growth through small classes and close faculty connections. Exposure to law sparked my path to law school and a career in data privacy, helping me discover a passion that led to my current role."
Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on learning and emphasis on collaboration helped me build the skills I need for consulting. The cybersecurity labs, combined with courses like Cyber Law and Ethics and Incident Response Management, have given me both the technical and communications skills to identify risks and help clients improve their security posture. My favorite experience was learning social engineering tactics in Professor Ringenberg’s class, which gave me a real-world perspective on cybersecurity."
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."
I was able to take classes within my major and outside of my major, making me very well-rounded and prepared in the field of technology. I was constantly challenged, but I learned something new every day."
My Purdue HRD degree shaped my career as an HR Business Partner, building strategic thinking, adaptability, and collaboration skills. The blend of HR, business, and technical coursework—plus hands-on learning—prepared me to drive impact in fast-paced, technical environments."
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 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 provided me with invaluable opportunities to explore leadership roles where I could effectively contribute to achieving organizational goals, empower my team to reach their full potential, and gain essential hands-on experience realistic industry settings, preparing me for a career in IT."