Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana

Current year: Senior

Carly Duncan's emphasis is in structural engineering and aims to restore historic buildings as a professional.

Why I chose Purdue Civil Engineering

Purdue Civil Engineering was not something I thought I was ever going to be involved with. I had already earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art + Design with a minor in Physics from Butler University, but there was still something more I wanted. I knew I wanted to learn more in the engineering field that could pair well with art, design, and creativity — and that’s when I ultimately came to my decision to study civil engineering at one of the best engineering programs in the country.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in structures. I am particularly interested in forensics engineering where there is a focus on restoring historical sites and structures.

Carly said she was uneasy about making friends coming in as a junior, but — within a semester, she said — she made many friends.

A welcoming campus

I was definitely a bit nervous when I first transferred here. The size difference alone was pretty dramatic as Butler is around just a tenth of the size of Purdue, but I found it surprisingly easy to meet people and make friends. Within just a semester, I got to know my classmates and professors really well.

After I graduate

After I earn my Bachelor’s degree next year, I will be staying for one more to earn my Master’s through Purdue Civil Engineering’s 4+1 Program. I believe the additional experience — both in study and research — will help further propel me forward once I enter the professional field

Carly came to Purdue University to study civil engineering after earning a Bachelor's degree from Butler University.