"The NROTC program at Purdue prepared me to take on leadership roles and set me on a path to becoming a Naval Officer. Professors like Don Barnes and Corben Meyer inspired me to pursue my dreams and gave me the support I needed to reach them."

"The hands-on experience working with turbine engines, airframes and electrical systems has helped me gain a great understanding of many aspects of aviation and gas/power systems. Professor Barnes and Dr. Davis have been hugely supportive and influential in helping me learn and achieve my goals."

"Purdue’s hands-on experience with large category aircraft, paired with the opportunity to work on the same aircraft used in the industry, uniquely prepared me for my future career. Professors like Dr. Ropp and Professor Barnes emphasized the importance of passion and precision, which has shaped my work ethic. My study abroad in Paris remains one of my most cherished experiences, sparking my love for culture and travel."

"All of my coursework helped me prepare for my new job. The third avionics course in my major is helping me develop a well-rounded understanding of many types of avionic systems. I have also learned much regarding leadership and professionalism."

"By having such a hands-on experience, I was able to show what I learned and how I could apply it in my job. The countless projects, team experiences, and the well-rounded education I had helped to showcase how qualified I am for the job."

"Purdue Polytechnic fostered a learn-by-doing approach which gave me the tools I needed to find my start within the aviation industry. I had the opportunity to lead one of the largest entirely student-driven events on campus, Purdue Aviation Day, in 2022 and 2023. This event taught me the value of teamwork, leadership and innovation. For that, I am ever grateful."

"The Purdue name helped me extend my reach when applying to jobs. Companies recognize Purdue as a leader in education, producing skilled individuals. Through hands-on learning and industry professional access, I knew these experiences would set me apart and make me uniquely qualified for my new job."

"The extensive amount of collaboration with my peers in the Polytechnic has given me the skills to communicate effectively and work well with other team members."

"I feel that the School of Aviation and Transportation technology equipped me with the knowledge to succeed in my job. Special thanks are also due to the Aviation Technology Student Council—joining them as a freshman gave me the opportunity to become a leader in my own way."

"Thanks to my major, I have the ability to be a resource for my employer as they switch from an older system to a new software that turns out to have been a core part of my curriculum at Purdue."

"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 Columbus gave me hands-on experience in areas like server environments, cybersecurity and database implementation. The support from professors like Melissa Casner and Dewey Swanson helped build my confidence and skills, especially as someone starting with less experience. Their encouragement pushed me to lead, collaborate and find my voice in IT."

"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."

"Tech 101, Women in Technology, shaped my college experience and gave me a support system where I could connect with others that were like me."

"In my interviews, it was so easy to think of examples where I had not only learned about a topic, but had implemented a complex project with a diverse group of students that highlighted the skill-sets companies were looking for alongside my project management abilities. I wouldn’t trade the past four years for anything in the world."

"My study abroad experience in Costa Rica helped me develop adaptability, problem-solving skills and a global perspective, all of which are valuable in my new role. Professor Sudip Vhaduri supported me by offering the chance to work as a teaching assistant for the Database Fundamentals class, strengthening my technical skills and confidence."

"I am thankful for Dr. Levon Esters, Cathy Pullings, Toni Munguia and Benito Martinez. Purdue Polytechnic has made a promise to help students in any way they can. These people are just a few at the forefront of helping students find their success story, encouraging leadership, and awarding courage. "

"Purdue and the Polytechnic both helped me by giving me a thorough understanding of IT topics and issues, as well as many applicable skills which I can use to get a running start with my career. In classes, it always felt like a family or a team tackling a challenge as one."

"Purdue Polytechnic helped me better understand the variety of jobs I can succeed in. Professors like Jeffrey Griffin and Joseph Kintzel made it fun to learn these skills, and they are always willing to help."

"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’s broad curriculum allowed me to explore various areas of IT, helping me find the perfect fit in systems administration. My experience working with Purdue IT, especially with Active Directory and troubleshooting, has prepared me well for my new role. Classes like CNIT 242, CNIT 344, and CNIT 345 emphasized the importance of systems integration and documentation, while Professor Deadman’s real-world-focused classes helped me see the bigger picture in IT."

"Purdue Polytechnic gave me real, hands-on exposure to the construction industry from day one. Courses like CM 150 and 450 helped me understand what actually happens on a jobsite, while electives in sales and entrepreneurship strengthened my communication skills and business mindset—both of which will help me succeed in client-focused project roles."

"In my time here, I was tested not only on how to understand certain information, but also to ask the right questions."

"Not everyone comes into this major with preexisting construction experience, and you gain that knowledge through labs and internships that serve as preparation for a variety of trades. I enjoyed the times when industry professionals came to our courses, and they provided many unforgettable lessons."

"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 gave me a solid foundation in construction management and the chance to apply what I learned through internships. Courses like Construction Materials and Methods and the Capstone project gave me real-world skills, while mentors like Toni Munguia and Danny Wyman helped me grow into a confident and capable professional."

"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."

"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! "

"Purdue and the Polytechnic gave me all the resources I needed to stand on my own two feet and be confident in myself. All of my favorite projects gave me real-world experience and feedback from industry professionals. They pushed me past my comfort zone, and from that I’ve been able to grow into a man that is ready to enter the workforce."

"Purdue’s hands-on labs and structured courses helped me develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills specific to cybersecurity. Working with my lab partners pushed me to do my best, which gave me confidence when presenting myself to potential employers."

"Purdue Polytechnic provided me with the determination and technical knowledge that helped me impress my employer. My professors believed in me, and I have been able to serve in groups such as the board of Women in Cybersecurity at Purdue in addition to becoming a published researcher.”"

"Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on learning and emphasis on collaboration helped me build the skills I need for consulting. The cybersecurity labs, combined with courses like Cyber Law and Ethics and Incident Response Management, have given me both the technical and communications skills to identify risks and help clients improve their security posture. My favorite experience was learning social engineering tactics in Professor Ringenberg’s class, which gave me a real-world perspective on cybersecurity."

"Choosing the Purdue Polytechnic Institute created an amazing network of friends and peers that helped propel me to a successful career. The Polytechnic feels like a home away from home, and in this environment I have excelled."

"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."

"My favorite professor was Dawn Laux. As a young woman in a technology field, it felt amazing to have a female professor who helped me further understand the world of technology."

"My favorite class was cyber criminology with Dr. Kate, because I found the material so interesting. I could see myself focusing more on that in the future."

"Purdue Polytechnic gave me hands-on labs, impactful courses, and mentors like Prof. Deadman who showed me how to think differently and truly prepare for the workforce. CNIT 34200 especially tied everything together and showed me how past and future knowledge connects in real-world ways."

"My program provided me with a holistic view of the industry, not only strengthening my technical skill, but also paying attention to non-technical aspects such as policy and regulation."

"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."

"The labs I participated in allowed me to apply what I learned in real time, which was an invaluable experience. Purdue also gave resources that have greatly expanded my professional network, and those relationships are something you can’t put a price tag on."

"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."

"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."

"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."

"Purdue Polytechnic has many student organizations that helped me grow personally and professionally throughout all four years here, like Polytechnic student ambassadors, Women in Technology, Boiler Gold Rush, Minority Technology Association, BoilerMentor, and more."

"I would like to thank all of my professors for making themselves available when I needed extra help. They challenged me to perform at a higher level and often reached out to me personally about career and leadership opportunities."

"All of my hands-on classes and the opportunity to learn intuitively have set me apart from other job candidates."

"I started my job in January, and I love being an engineer! My time at Purdue taught me how to stay focused and dedicated to a goal. Leaving my original path in nursing was a difficult decision, but I never regretted choosing Purdue Polytechnic for my engineering technology degree."

"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 and the Polytechnic Institute have given me the opportunity to work with a wide variety of electrical and control systems for different use cases. The classes that I feel helped prepare me the most for my career were Intro to Industrial Controls and Embedded Digital Systems."

"A huge part of the Purdue Polytechnic is the heavy emphasis of practical knowledge and giving students the opportunities to apply what they have learned in real world situations. Through Purdue, I was able to acquire an internship in games/simulation that set me up for success my senior year!"

"Purdue Polytechnic gave me the technical knowledge and adaptability I need in a changing HR field. The support from so many mentors among both faculty and staff helped me grow into a stronger leader and professional."

"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."

"Interacting with other students in group activities helped simulate real teamwork situations you may face at work. My instructors did a great job relating lessons to real work experiences; I gained the knowledge as well as the confidence needed to be successful in my career."

"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 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."

"Purdue Polytechnic provided me with hands-on experience and diverse knowledge of other concentrations like electrical, materials, and automation engineering. Being well-rounded and knowing how to apply my knowledge greatly helped me become qualified for my job."

"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."

"Not only did I get valuable experience in CAD software during my time at Purdue Polytechnic, but I also learned how to take strategic and conceptual approaches to design."

"The ability to take Purdue courses remotely during the summer and at a statewide location has given me the opportunity to work full-time in industry while also pursuing my degree. With this work experience and my technical education with Purdue, I qualified for a senior engineering role!"

"Purdue Polytechnic allowed me to pursue my education at an accelerated pace while working full-time in the industry. I would also like to thank my parents and husband for their continuous support, and for challenging me to go outside my comfort zone as an engineer."

"My classes not only prepared me to be a good designer, but a good manufacturer; I understand the process of creating a product from the initial idea all the way to holding the finished product in my hands. And, I can thank Purdue Polytechnic for my job opportunity – I worked with my employer for my capstone project! "

"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."

"With a curriculum geared toward application and hands-on experience, I was able to take several labs that gave me experience with things I will be exposed to in industry. Design Thinking in Technology and my senior capstone project incorporated real-life problem-solving applications, and team projects gave me the necessary communication and collaboration needed to thrive!"

"With every Polytechnic class, I had a group project where we had to do some form of hands-on work. This helped me develop hands-on skills as well as the ability to work with others from many different backgrounds, and my internships gave me real industry experience that helped me get the job I wanted."

"Purdue Polytechnic gave me invaluable hands-on experience, especially in labs that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Classes like MET 426 and MET 349, along with support from professors like Jason Ostanek and Mark French, fueled my passion for engineering. The practical knowledge I gained will be directly applicable to my new role at Fleece, where I’ll work on improving quality procedures and product testing."

"The Polytechnic provided me with so many opportunities to dive into the real-life applications of the theory we discussed in lectures. These experiences led to internships, and the internships led to job opportunities!"

"Intro to controls system and manufacturing system integration gave me my intro to controls systems and helped prepare to lead in the industry."

"Purdue Polytechnic had the classes and diverse range of perspectives that challenged my ways of thinking and gave me opportunities to apply that knowledge. I was able to study abroad and learn cultural perspectives, plus I had professors from all over the world, many of whom are industry leaders in their area of teaching."

"I was always intimidated by statistics, but the faculty made it very approachable and I apply many of those concepts to my job. For the same reason, I also appreciated the focus on international relations—the study abroad trip with James Tanoos was an amazing experience I’ll always remember."

"Purdue Polytechnic’s advisors, and particularly Lafayette’s director Sindie Ballotti played a big role in designing my courses and answering almost every question that I had during my time at Purdue Polytechnic. Special thanks to James Maley—I loved his courses, and how they were set up.”"

"In Polytechnic’s CIT Department, the plethora of resources available to us allowed me to have exposure and gain experience ... [with] hardware and software that, by itself, would cost way more than our tuition. My academic advisor, Lauren Lucas, [was] also the best I could ask for."

"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’s emphasis on technology-driven leadership and adaptability helped me develop a forward-thinking approach, making me uniquely qualified for my new role. The combination of technical knowledge, leadership principles and practical application set me apart and positioned me for success."

"Any flight school can teach a student how to fly, but the soft skills learned through the various courses offered within this degree has set me up to excel further than any other track I may have chosen to reach the airlines. Purdue does not train “normal” pilots — it trains professional aviators that shape the future of our industry."

"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."

"The School of Engineering Technology does a great job covering the wide range of jobs I could have gone into, including manufacturing, quality control, and even theory-based jobs. Nearly all of the recruiters I have talked to are ecstatic to learn about the hands-on experience I received."

"Purdue Polytechnic helped me become well-rounded in both manufacturing and business concepts, which I knew would be valuable in any supply chain role. The curriculum gave me the knowledge and confidence to pursue positions in the industry. I also gained practical skills through classes like Strategic Supply Chain Management, Operations Planning and Statistical Quality Control."

"The UX program helped me become a stronger communicator, and working with Paul Parsons taught me how to research effectively—skills that are key for managing projects and client relationships."

"I was prepared for my career even before I graduated, because my courses were tailored to the methods and strategies used in my industry."

"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."

"The Experience Studio was the most impactful part of my Purdue journey. Working on five different real-world projects with company sponsors gave me the practical skills and confidence I needed to succeed. I brought up that class in every internship and job interview—it shaped how I work, lead, and collaborate."

"UX degrees from Purdue give their students the necessary skills to be a well-rounded leader and peer by the time they walk across the graduation stage. UX is also very close-knit, meaning we have smaller class sizes, and I really enjoyed that because I got to know the people and professors in my classes. I got to see what other people were interested in and saw all that I could do with a UX degree."

"Purdue University is nationally recognized; my new employer is committed to hiring Purdue students because of our work ethic and academic rigor."

"The Department of Computer Graphics Technology prepared me by conducting hands-on courses where I would receive a key portfolio piece each semester. The department is also a major advocate for students to acquire jobs and internships – and an internship is what made me better qualified for my new position."

"I was able to take classes within my major and outside of my major, making me very well-rounded and prepared in the field of technology. I was constantly challenged, but I learned something new every day."

"Purdue Polytechnic provided me with numerous opportunities to hone my technical skills, from web development to video editing. My experiences in class and as an editor for the K-Pop club on campus (VariAsian) prepared me for my role. Professors like Esteban Garcia were also incredibly supportive, helping me balance my academic and personal responsibilities."