What made you decide to choose your specific major?
Before applying to Purdue, I met with a career counselor who recommended a few majors available at Purdue. One of her recommendations was Supply Chain and Sales Engineering Technology. I felt this would provide a career path where I can utilize my strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This major also made a lot of sense to me because even in elementary school I was ordering stuff from around the world and tracking the packages any chance I could get.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
I really appreciate that the curriculum of my program provides ample manufacturing knowledge. Many of the careers in my field are in manufacturing and I know that having a solid understanding will help me solve supply chain or logistics issues greatly.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
One of my favorite projects has been in my Capstone (senior project) course. I get to work with a real client and deliver them a working solution. My project team consists of students in different majors, so it simulates working with an interdisciplinary team in industry. I am grateful to have an awesome team and the e-commerce website we are designing keeps me engaged.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
Alongside being a Polytechnic Ambassador, I am a Resident Assistant (RA) on campus, a member of the Boiler Bakers club, and a member of my dorm hall club.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
I wish someone had told me how helpful the professors in my program could be. I learned during the second half of my sophomore year that professors can provide much more than class material or research. My program's professors have all had industry experience. Therefore, they have industry connections and are often consulting with companies. I received my first internship after a professor's industry connection spoke to our class and it was a fantastic experience. Shoutout to Dr. Jim Tanoos and Dr. Matthew Stephens!
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
Don't be afraid of group projects! I found that after my first year at Purdue, group projects became enjoyable and something I no longer dreaded. Also, I am a firm believer that the reward you will get out of your degree really depends on what you put in. I stayed involved and focused, got to know my professors, and made connections with my colleagues. This led to an incredibly fulfilling 4 years at Purdue and I have a job secured for post-graduation!