What made you decide to choose your specific major?
In high school, I really enjoyed my engineering classes but was particularly fond of 3D modeling and simulations. I did a science fair project in Inventor where I tested the strengths of different roof shapes. That project is what led me to want to focus on both of my majors – the project was the combination of both. While I knew these were my interests, Purdue had so many different options for those interested in engineering and technology. I decided to apply to Exploratory Studies to help understand all the different routes I could take before officially declaring a major.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
Since DES is so small, it's easy to get to know everyone. We all spend a lot of time and know each other very well. The alumni network also seems very strong - even from people I've never met before. At Industrial Roundtable, I stumbled across a recruiter who was a VPI alum and was able to ask him very open and honest questions. It was really great to have that connection because he not only knew what I did, but he was in my same plan of study!
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
In CGT 10301, we created a Lego assembly from the ground up. We modeled the brick, included expressions, created the design, and recorded it being assembled. I made the International Space Station and am really proud with how it came out. Someday I'll buy the individual pieces and make it in real life! My favorite BIM project was designing my dream house. It was really fun designing the floor plan, furniture plan, and the exterior for the model.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
The Digital Systems Processes and Tools Club is the club I spend most of my time with. We manage the data of 7 different clubs in our server. In less than a semester of becoming a club, we already have 3 sponsors and 5 students attending a conference in Texas. I also was the social officer for Purdue Taekwondo and participated on the demonstration team. Martial arts has always been a huge part of my life. Photography club is another club I like to go to. I've spent a lot of time taking photos for different clubs, so naturally, I joined photography club.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
When I started in DES, I didn't fully know what I was signing up for, but I really liked my classes and enjoyed CAD. I also knew my major had an exceptionally high placement rate, but now I know why. The major isn't just CAD, manufacturing, and simulations, but it's about keeping track of the products throughout their lifecycle (PLM). I now have a much more holistic perspective about everything that I didn't have walking in. Purdue is one of the few schools that teaches this which is why VPI (now DES) is so sought after.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
It's totally okay to come in undecided, in fact, I recommend it. I, along with a lot of other people have been there. I came here as an exploratory studies student, wondering how everyone knew what they wanted to do. Now, some of those same people who had been talking about their dream career non-stop are now questioning their decision. Even if you think you know what you want to do, reflect on who you are and what your interests are. It's a lot better to do that now when you haven't taken so many classes. My last piece of advice is going to IR, and start applying to internships your freshman year, even if you're in exploratory studies. I made the mistake of thinking I was too young and needed to declare a major before applying to internships.