What made you decide to choose your specific major?
Originally, I came to Purdue for Mechanical Engineering, but I realized that it didn’t have as many hands-on classes as I had hoped. That led me to switch to Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) in Purdue Polytechnic, where I could gain more applied experience in my coursework. Additionally, when I toured Purdue, I noticed how much investment was going into new classrooms and lab spaces, which reaffirmed my decision.
When I was a senior in high school, I received a Purdue Polytechnic promotion about “uniquely qualified graduates.” It featured Angel Price, who works for The Walt Disney Company, a place I’ve dreamed of working at for as long as I can remember. Seeing her credit Purdue Polytechnic as a key part of her career journey inspired me and made my decision feel like fate.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
One of my favorite things about MET in Purdue Polytechnic is the hands-on approach to learning. Instead of just theoretical work, I get to apply what I learn directly in labs and projects. I also love how collaborative and tight-knit the program is—faculty and peers are always willing to help, and there’s a strong sense of community.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
My favorite project thus far has been building a guitar under the guidance of Dr. French in the Guitar Lab. This experience was incredibly rewarding because I was able to take a project from concept to completion, gaining practical woodworking and engineering skills along the way. It was also an opportunity to connect with upperclassmen and guitar enthusiasts who gave me advice and insights that I wouldn’t have received otherwise.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
Guitar Lab, Women in Technology (mentor for two freshmen in Mechanical Engineering Tech) and I’m preparing to study abroad in Sweden in 2026 for a combined study and internship program.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
I didn’t realize how collaborative and supportive the Polytechnic environment would be—professors want to help students succeed, and hands-on learning makes such a difference in understanding complex concepts.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
Don’t be afraid to seek out opportunities and ask for help! Purdue can feel overwhelming at first, but there are so many resources available, from professors to campus organizations. Whether it’s reaching out to a professor or connecting with clubs and mentors, taking initiative can open doors to incredible experiences. Remember, you can make a large school smaller, but you can't make a small school bigger.