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.
Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on labs and exposure to real project workflows gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in marine construction. Experiences like my Ireland study abroad with Professor Jenkins helped broaden my perspective on global construction practices."
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."
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."
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 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."
My hands-on curriculum and networking opportunities were incredible. In one of my 300-level courses, I was even able to work with South Korean abroad students. I am more than prepared to work in a culturally diverse team environment."
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."
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."
I would like to thank Toni Munguia, Harley Barta and Clark Cory, who all served as incredible mentors to me. Professors Luciana Debs and Bryan Hubbard also brought in so many real-world design examples that pushed me to grow and enhanced my understanding."
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."
Purdue Polytechnic gave me real-world experience and the confidence to launch my career. Hands-on projects like designing a showroom for JSI and courses like Capstone INTR 42800 helped me apply my skills in professional settings. Mentors like Charles Anthony Elliot Sr. and Emily Allison McLaughlin provided the guidance and support that truly set me up for success."
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."
Purdue Polytechnic’s great lab facilities and world-class professors, many of whom were once industry professionals, prepared me very well for a real-world manufacturing environment. I even got to work with a medical startup to create a product from scratch during my capstone project."
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."
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 Polytechnic’s hands-on lab work and high-quality problem-solving assignments and experiences help us to truly put what we learn into practice. We are able to freely collaborate with our peers and ask for guidance from our professors, which prepares us to face real industrial challenges. The student population has made me realize how incredibly unique each and every one of us is."
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."
My professors, advisors and administrative staff were there to help me with any questions I had. They always made me feel welcome and even helped me navigate the world of interviews and job offers!
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Purdue Polytechnic provided me with hands-on project experience that helped me secure internships and ultimately made me more qualified for my role. The Engineering Technology capstone gave me the skills to plan, budget and execute projects effectively, preparing me for the fast-paced work environment at WSP."
The Polytechnic helped to make me uniquely qualified for my new job through the hands-on learning environment. I knew what I liked and what I did not like from the projects I did in the classroom. And, when I talked with my employer about my projects, it helped them to understand my capabilities."