What made you decide to choose your specific major?
I was always very interested in building and understanding how things worked since I was a kid, and have always enjoyed anything hands on. I was always a visual and practical learner in high school, and excelled in projects where I got to figure it out with my own hands. I knew Purdue Polytechnic was the right place for me, specifically Mechanical Engineering Technology, because of its focus on building technical skills and hands on projects.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
Right from the start of freshman year, we jumped into hands-on technical skills like CAD modeling, injection molding, welding, and machining. Learning these early on has really helped me stand out at career fairs, giving me a strong technical foundation. Beyond that, I’ve loved being part of the School of Engineering Technology—making great friends with like-minded people and learning from professors who come straight from the industry and focus on what really matters.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
I've done many projects during my time here at Purdue, but the ones that really stood out was building a catapult for a competition as a class final project (MET 213), helping design a go-kart for a group project using CAD (MET 102), and creating a hammer with our own custom g-code design, using several methods of machining (MET 245).
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
In addition to being Polytechnic Ambassador, which has given me the chance to connect with several prospective students, I’m currently leading the mechanical team for Purdue's Autonomous Robotics Club, working on "Dogcopter"—a fusion robotic dog and drone. This project has allowed me to apply my hands-on skills to something both exciting and impactful, with the potential to push the boundaries of robotics in a meaningful way.
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 it was emphasized more to me that the School of Engineering Technology produces Engineers just like the College of Engineering, with just a different method of learning. I would have also emphasized how valuable the hands on labs and projects are, and that company recruiters really look for those skills when hiring.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
I would advise prospective students to get involved in on campus activities as early as possible and find something you like. There are several organizations and clubs on campus that may just be interesting. Don't stress too hard with classes and make time for yourself. Lastly, be sure to take everything in, the college experience goes by fast!