After three years in industry, I knew I needed more than a logical next step. I wanted something that would shape how I think and grow long term. Purdue’s Professional Master’s Program in Chemical Engineering stood out immediately. It did not just check requirements. It felt like a place where I could genuinely become better. The program  pushed me toward industry-focused learning through coursework, projects, and internships that proved incredibly valuable.

One of the biggest shifts for me was discovering R&D. Coming from a production background, I had limited exposure to research-driven problem solving. Through Purdue and my internship at Clariant, I learned how data, experiments, and careful analysis drive meaningful improvement. It changed how I approach problems, teaching me to slow down, think deeply, and understand the ‘why’ behind outcomes.

A course that truly caught me off guard was Financial Analysis and Project Management. Finance felt intimidating at first, but the clarity of the teaching made complex concepts click. It ended up being one of the most impactful courses, pushing me far outside my comfort zone.

The most challenging part of the program was searching for an internship. Rejections were tough, but career fairs, CCO workshops, networking, and constant resume improvement helped me break through.

The PMP curriculum really shaped my journey. . The balance of engineering, management, and concentration courses broadened my thinking and strengthened both my technical and decision-making skills. Just as importantly, the friends I made here made Purdue feel like home.

Today, I am excited to work on problems that blend engineering, data, and real-world impact. Purdue’s PMP did more than prepare me for a job. It helped me find my direction.

If I had one piece of advice for incoming students, it would be this. Be proactive from day one. The program moves fast, but it rewards every bit of effort you put in.

Boiler Up!