Hometown: Puyallup, Washington

Current year: Senior

Matthew Verran graduates in May 2022 and plans to earn his Master's degree in Civil Engineering at Purdue University.

Why I chose Purdue Civil Engineering

I’ve always had a great interest in seeing big projects come together, so I knew I wanted to study somewhere that would prepare me for a career in civil engineering. Growing up in Washington, I didn’t know a whole lot about Purdue University, but after talking with my dad and visiting the campus, I knew this was the place for me.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in Structures. I want to be a part of largescale projects and see them come together. Ideally, I’d love to eventually be part of coastal projects, like bridge and pier design. Growing up near the coast, it’s always been a dream of mine to come to work on a boat and show off the work I’ve done to friends and family.

Growing up near the Pacific Coast, Matthew says his dream is to one day to design bridges and piers.

Choosing Purdue

Traveling across the country to attend college was a little nerve-racking — but I knew it was something I wanted to do to get what I felt would be a greater experience. I wanted to be somewhere where I couldn’t just drive home every weekend and I wanted to fully immerse myself with campus life. Since then, I have had an incredible time here and have been able to take part in internships and student organizations like Purdue ASCE and Cru.

After I graduate

After I graduate, I plan to earn my Master’s degree here at Purdue through its 4+1 program. It’s great that the school provide an option to work toward your graduate degree ahead of time. With what I’ve learned — and will learn in the coming year — I feel confident that I will be better able to achieve my career goals.

During his time in the Lyles School of Civil Engineering, Matthew has had the opportunity to take on a number of internships.