2021-2022 Engineering Ambassadors

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DISPLAYING X AMBASSADOR

Jaatani B. Abdi

CHE Ambassador

Show more information about Jaatani B. Abdi.

Why did you choose Purdue?

When visiting, seeing how welcoming and friendly everyone had been towards me made me confident that I would be able to fit in as a student at Purdue. Combining that with the world class education that I knew I would be able to receive here assured me that Purdue was the place for me.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

Solving problems was something that had appealed to me when I was younger, and two subjects that I had always enjoyed in school were math and science. Learning that applying math and science to solve problems was at the core of what engineers do on a day-to-day basis, which combined many different things I was already passionate about, ultimately drove me to choose it as a major.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

Getting the chance to make relationships with other students is something that I really love about being a Purdue Engineer. Whether it be working together in study groups or something as small as asking a friend a question about something I didn't understand in class, I've been able to build a group of people to support me through my experiences within the College of Engineering. Eventually, when my time as a student comes to an end, I'm confident that the friendships I've made because of those experiences as a Purdue Enigneer will be one of the biggest takeaways from my time here.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Getting the chance to make relationships with other students is something that I really love about being a Purdue Engineer. Whether it be working together in study groups or something as small as asking a friend a question about something I didn't understand in class, I've been able to build a group of people to support me through my experiences within the College of Engineering. Eventually, when my time as a student comes to an end, I'm confident that the friendships I've made because of those experiences as a Purdue Enigneer will be one of the biggest takeaways from my time here.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Sledding down Slayter Hill the night after a large snowstorm with a bunch of my friends was an experience that I will never forget!

Karl Akert

ME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

An amazing engineering degree at an affordable price was too good to pass up! I loved that all the students I met during my visits were engaged in campus activities like clubs and extracurriculars, and having the opportunity to do research with world-class professors was icing on the cake.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

The clich answer was that I loved math and science in high school, but as I got further into my engineering coursework I realized I loved the process of solving open-ended world problems using those same tools of math and science.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

The people! From talented professors to supportive classmates, everyone wants to help you succeed.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Study hard, but make sure to take time off. Your time spent working will be much more productive if you’ve taken the time to recharge and refresh!

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Beating Ohio State in Ross-Ade Stadium!

Molly Arito

CMPE Ambassador

Show more information about Molly Arito.

Why did you choose Purdue?

I applied to a few different universities, all for either Computer Science or Computer Engineering. Once all my offers were returned, Purdue felt like a no-brainer. Purdue’s College of Engineering is so well-known and respected, I knew that just by graduating, I would succeed.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

When applying to universities, I was unsure of what I wanted to study, let alone my career aspirations. I had always been interested in math, and I had been introduced to coding in high school; so I decided to do either Computer Science or engineering. The biggest reason for choosing engineering over Computer Science is that I want to graduate with a Purdue Engineering degree that is admired unanimously. The First Year Engineering program granted me time to further my understanding of engineering and helped build connections with other students going through similar decisions. I talked with upperclassmen to hear their advice, and eventually I found myself becoming increasingly excited about Computer Engineering. By looking through the course catalogues and talking with others, I recognized I wanted a career that allowed me to be precise, hands-on, analytical, and strategic — all things emphasized in Computer Engineering. Now, I couldn’t imagine myself studying anything else!

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

Purdue’s College of Engineering is rigorous, ambitious, and precise. The various plans of study not only prepare students to serve as an engineer, but to think, respond, and be strategic as an engineer. Purdue establishes strong, foundational skills and a fierce work ethic to build engineers that are highly regarded around the world.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

A little bit every day goes a long way! I wish this was something I had practiced coming into Purdue, but it took me a while to understand the gravity of the concept. Often times I find my self caught in tunnel-vision on assignments, spending hours or even consecutive days trying to get things done; I’d start to lose focus, get behind on other assignments, and stress myself out by not giving enough time for other classes. By spacing work out over time and starting assignments early, I could better organize my time and more thoroughly understand concepts via consistent information recall.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Going to the Young the Giant concert!

Megan Bingenheimer

EEE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I visited Purdue as a junior and for the first time I found “my people” — the students I met seemed so passionate and excited about what they were learning about and involved in. Even though engineering is hard, everyone was excited about what they were doing. There is so much to get involved in that 4 years simply isn’t enough time!

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I have always enjoyed math and science. Add that to my love for protecting the environment and my love for making the world a better place, and I found myself in the Environmental & Ecological Engineering family! The small size of the department means you benefit from lots of resources and experiences with your peers and professors during your time here.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

Boilermakers are not afraid to take on the world’s toughest challenges with passion and perseverance. Additionally, the interests of students extend well beyond academics — they wouldn’t have gotten admitted if they weren’t well-rounded.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Ask for help, sleep, and a strong sense of humor.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Watching a Sweet Sixteen basketball game with my Dad in Mackey Arena!

Andrew Bowman

CE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of its outstanding Civil Engineering program and the diversity of career paths alumni take after graduation. The affordability of Purdue only confirmed my decision.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I have known for a while that I wanted to major in civil engineering as I’ve always been fascinated by buildings and bridges and how they are built.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer is being able to meet so many other students with completely different backgrounds who are all passionate about their goals as a professional. There is never a lack of desire or creativity with Purdue students.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success in engineering at Purdue is to find your group of people. I was lucky enough to gain a small group of close friends once entering my major and I can’t imagine the past two years without them.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite individual Purdue memory would probably have to be one of the ski trips out west that I was a part of. I can’t discount the little moments like late nights with friends though either.

Matt Boyle

IE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I choose Purdue because of the opportunity for me to grow into a better person during my time in West Lafayette. I was very attracted to the numerous clubs that I could become a part of and thrive in as well as the chance to talk with hundreds of company representatives at the Industrial Roundtable Career Fair. I felt like these chances to grow both personally and professional and the opportunity to be considered a Purdue Engineering for the rest of my life were too great to pass up!

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering as a major with the advice from some family friends. Throughout high school, I never really understood exactly what an engineer does in their everyday life. However, I was told that since I like math and science, I should give engineering a shot. Even though I know so much more know about engineering and understand there is so much more to it than liking math and science, I am so happy that I was given this advice and would not have it any other way!

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is the engineering community itself. I have found lifelong friends through Purdue Engineering and have made memories that will last a lifetime because of this community. I am also very proud today and will be the rest of my life to say that I am a Purdue Engineer, and I absolutely love that.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success in Purdue Engineering is to find your group. Purdue Engineering is hard enough as it is, and it is even harder going through classes and difficulties alone. If you can find a good group of friends or study buddies, they can help push you to be a better person and exceed even more in your classes. Do not be afraid to take risks and put yourself out there to find the best group of people for your success.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory is when our football team beat Ohio State my freshman year and everyone rushed the field! I told my parents on my move in day that rushing the field after a game is one of the things that will define whether or not I had a successful college life, so I was very excited to get this opportunity so early. I still remember to this day getting on the field with my friends and being around so many people from different walks in life all just having the best time of their lives, and I will cherish that moment and happiness forever!

Hannah Congleton

EEE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because it gave me the flexibility I wanted to explore what I truly enjoyed. I knew at Purdue I could create a community and have many resources at my disposal like career services and mentoring programs.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I have always liked solving problems and knew I wanted to make a difference in the world. Engineering gives me the best tools to solve the problems I want to fix.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer is the community. I have made many friends in my classes, and while we have many differences, engineering connects us all together. Even off-campus whenever I wear Purdue merch I always hear at least one person yell “Go Boilermakers!” and feel the sense of community from that statement.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

I don’t think of it as much of a secret, but I have found the way to be successful is to use all the help you can get. Your professors are always trying to help and want you to understand so go to office hours and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Purdue also has help rooms for different subjects and many classes offer supplemental instruction that helps you gain a deeper understanding of the material. If you use all the resources that are available, you have set yourself up for success.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite memory was during my Urban Water Projects class. The goal of the class was to work with nonprofits to improve their rain gardens that were previously installed. I learned a lot from the class and the shining moment was when we finished our projects and got to see all the work we put into the project.

Kyndall Davis

BME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of the various support systems that are in place to help students, specifically minority engineering students, succeed. Programs such as MEP were sure to emphasize how I’ll be a part of a community, and that was a very important factor for me when deciding to go to Purdue.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

Throughout high school I’ve been interested in going to medical school, but I wanted a major that allowed me to develop analytical skills that I would need to solve complex problems in the human body. Biomedical Engineering gave me the opportunity to set a strong foundation to enter almost any aspect of the medical field. I feel that if I’m able to connect principles of engineering to the medical field, I’ll have the power to preserve and enhance the lives of many.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite part about being a Purdue engineer are how there are so many different fields that we are able to focus on in each major. In BME for instance, some of my friends love the more technical aspects of coding or software for medical devices, while others might be on the biological side, dealing with cellular components. There seems to be a place for everyone to have the opportunity to explore their interests.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Although the course load is rigorous, the professors are very kind and understanding that you are a person as well as a student. Never hesitate to reach out to them if you need help.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

I don’t have one specific memory, but I love the organizations that I’m in. They host amazing events and a lot of the members are always willing to help.

Janey Dillon

ME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I knew Purdue was the right place for me when I visited for the first time. I enjoyed the environment and everything the campus had to offer, like the big stadium and the classroom spaced.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering because of the unlimited opportunities it has and the idea that I can do whatever I want when I graduate. I can do anything and so can any engineer.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

The people. All my friends are engineers, and we are all in it together. I love that I can go to anyone, and they will be happy to help. It is such a wonderful collaborative unit.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

I lean on my peers as much as I can. It’s easy to think you are alone in your struggling, but you aren’t, and everyone wants to help each other.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

When I joined the Purdue Engineering Student Council. As soon as I joined, I knew I had made my best friends for life. Without joining, I don’t think I would be as happy at school as I am.

Sam Dlott

ECE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue for its incredible opportunities, people, and resources. I fell in love with the spirit and energy on campus, everyone was proud to call themselves a boilermaker and now I am too!

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering as a major because I have always been a problem solver. I like to help people any way I can, and incorporating technology into those solutions has been something I have always been passionate about.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is the sense of community engineers have. Regardless of what discipline you study, everyone is here to learn how to be the best engineer they can be and that shared experience creates an inspiring community.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success in the College of Engineering is to invest yourself in what you are passionate about! When I was a first-year student, I had no idea what I wanted out of my college experience. I kept trying new things and through that found people and things I loved. The piece of advice I got was "you get in what you put in" and that couldn't be truer. The more of yourself you put into Purdue, clubs, and engineering, the more you will walk away with.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory has to be our win over Michigan State during the 2021 football season. As a member of the marching band, being in Ross-Ade was electrifying! I still remember how I felt when time expired and how excited everyone was.

Keme Etta

CE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because I wanted to go to a top school for civil engineering that had many opportunities for industry exposure.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose civil engineering because I like being able to see my contributions physically and because of the different industries I could impact.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is the comradery, other Purdue Engineers are always willing to help you.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success is being organized and managing my time so that I can have time to do activities I enjoy.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory was when we beat UVA the year after they knocked us out of March madness.

Eric Flaningam

IE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

Why I chose Purdue: My visit in high school really opened my eyes to Purdue. It felt like the place I could see myself for the next four years. With the combination of a top-tier education and an affordable school, Purdue was the best choice for me.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

Why I chose engineering: I always loved solving problems. Engineering seemed like the best path to take to pursue careers where I could solve problems. I also didn’t know what I wanted to do for a career, and engineering provided the most options after graduation. To support that point, I’ve considered med school, a PhD, an MBA, and entrepreneurship as post-graduation plans. All of those options were feasible to complete with an engineering degree.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

Favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer: My favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer is the immediate connection with every other Purdue engineer, both current students and alumni. I can always find something in common with someone who has gone through Purdue Engineering whether that be the pain of Purdue math or a love of Purdue basketball.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Secret to success: Build a support network. If you want to be successful, find people who are on a similar path to you and help each other out. It’ll give you the emotional and educational support to put you in a position to succeed.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Favorite Purdue memory: Storming the field after beating Ohio State freshman year.

Denae Galloway

EE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because it’s a great engineering school and the community was always extremely welcoming every time that I visited.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering because I knew that engineering is involved in almost everything we do and I wanted to make an impact on the world.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is working with all of the other amazing Purdue Engineers and being presented with amazing opportunities that I never imagined I would have access to.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

The secret to success in Engineering is not being afraid to ask for help and never giving up when things get hard.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory is football games with my friends.

Rachel Gander

IDE/MDE Ambassador

Show more information about Rachel Gander.

Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of the unique nature of First-Year Engineering. I wasn't positive about what area of engineering I wanted to focus on, so having the first year to explore was beneficial for me.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering because I always enjoyed working to solve problems in high school. Since studying at Purdue, I have realized that I also enjoy the thought and design processes needed to successfully engineer a product or system. 

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

I love being a Purdue Engineer because of the unique stories that each person in the College of Engineering holds.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

I think taking time for myself each day has been the most useful thing I have done while studying in the College of Engineering. 

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite memory while at Purdue has been watching the basketball games with my friends. 

Cole Heald

ME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

While touring Purdue, I immediately noticed a welcoming environment that made me feel like I belonged. Being a school full of mostly STEM majors, it was refreshing to come to a campus where nerdiness was not just tolerated, but actively encouraged.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

The mechanical aspects of engineering first piqued my interest at a young age, as I grew up working on cars with my father and older brother. This planted the seed, and in high school I continued to explore this area of interest, getting involved in my high school’s engineering Project Lead the Way (PLTW) program.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite aspect of being a Purdue Engineer is the opportunities available to me. Since coming to Purdue I have had the opportunity to make an impact in the local community, improve Purdue in ways I never thought possible, and make friendships that I anticipate spanning the rest of my life.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success is finding a healthy balance between my social and academic life. While I came to Purdue for an education, I have realized that it isn't sustainable to only focus on my coursework. Through getting involved in extracurriculars and making time to spend with my friends, I have been able to improve my time management skills and make my time here at Purdue meaningful.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Each year an organization that I am a part of, Purdue Engineering Student Council (PESC), puts on the nation's largest student run career fair. I will never forget waking up at 3:00 am on a Tuesday morning to setup for the fair on Memorial Mall with 40 of my closest friends and having to wake up the next day at the same time to do it all over again!

Reese Holloway

ME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I ultimately chose Purdue for a couple of reasons. I knew I wanted to be an engineer of some sort, and with my parents both working in the College of Engineering, I knew firsthand how amazing the engineering program at Purdue was. This was a huge factor. I would be lying if I said money wasn’t also a factor. Purdue has one of the lowest tuitions in the Big Ten, and has arguably the best engineering school. This made it almost a no-brainer for me to go to Purdue, as it is by far the most valuable university in the Big Ten, and one of the most valuable in the country.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I was around a lot of engineers when I was growing up. Both my parents, both my grandfathers, a couple of uncles, and a few family friends all showed me what it was like to be an engineer. They worked in such different areas and industries that I knew that I could do anything I wanted as an engineer.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer are the people. The professors are amazing and always willing to talk and help in office hours. My peers are great people who are super nice, including, and happy to help and work together on homework.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success is having friends in my major. I don’t think I could have gotten through engineering without having friends to collaborate and work with.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Being at the Purdue vs. Ohio State game and rushing the field when we beat them.

Mamie Johnson

CHE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because I wanted to attend a school with a strong engineering program, and after visiting Purdue through an event hosted by the Minority Engineering Program, I knew that Purdue would provide me with many opportunities to be challenged, to grow, and form long-lasting relationships with some amazing people.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering because of the versatility of its applications. With a chemical engineering degree, there are numerous amounts of career paths that I can take, and I love that I will have this flexibility as continue to navigate the things that I would like to accomplish within my lifetime.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about Purdue engineering is the support system that I have been able to build. Mainly through my involvements with the National Society of Black Engineers and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, I have been able to meet people who have helped me in my academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success in Purdue engineering is continuously trying to find my personal balance. Every semester I have to redefine what my balance for that given time period will be, but it is so very important to take care of yourself. Yes, your GPA is important; yes, your extra-curriculars are important, but if you ask me, nothing is more important than your personal wellbeing. Whether that means saying no to a few activities here and there or making time each day to do something that genuinely makes you happy, you need to do these things or there is no way that you will be successful in anything that it is you are doing.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

One of my favorite Purdue memories occurred during this past spring semester. It was one of the first nights that it snowed a lot, so people were everywhere on campus sledding, throwing snowballs, making snowmen, you name it. I was comfortable in my room, and I didn’t want to leave the warmth of my bed, but one of my friends came to drag me out of my room and play in the snow, and we ended up having a really amazing night.

Ashley Kikos

IDE/MDE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because I loved the environment of the school when I visited. Everyone seemed so happy to be at school there, and I knew I wanted a school where I would be happy and challenged as an engineering student.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering as a major because I have always loved building or fixing things. In high school, I was actively involved in designing and building sets and props for my community theatre, and I knew I wanted to pursue a degree that would help me continue to do so at a more professional level.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer is the sense of community that comes with being a part of the program. Whenever I need help on homework or need a study group for an upcoming exam, I am always able to find a group of engineers that are willing to help one another. I have also been fortunate to have amazing engineering teams that I have worked with in my classes which have really helped me learn how to collaborate similar to engineers in the industry.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success in the College of Engineering is to not be afraid to ask for help and to get help early. It is always easier to go to a study session or find a tutor when material starts to get challenging instead of waiting until the week of an exam to get help. Using Purdue’s resources early has definitely helped me be successful in my engineering courses.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory was the Purdue vs. Ohio State game my freshmen year. As a member of the marching band, I was able to see firsthand the entire stadium storm the field after the Purdue victory. The energy in that stadium was unbelievable, and I hope that we can celebrate more Purdue wins this upcoming season!

Kirunda Kunyiha

ME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue primarily because of its world renowned engineering program, but arriving on campus (I did my first year online) showed me that there are an abundance of opportunities to grow and succeed, both in and out of the classroom.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

Other than the cliche of enjoying math and physics in high school, I wanted to challenge myself and felt as though engineering would be a great way to do this. Purdue also has a very competitive engineering program and as someone who thrives in such environments, I felt that this would be a great environment for me to achieve my goals.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

I'd say my favourite thing is the variety and diversity of people I get to interact with. All of my classes are filled with interesting people doing very exciting things and there's always an opportunity to learn. There is also a large network of engineering alumni in many different places, some of which I've personally been able to use to help myself grow professionally. 

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Balance and structure. I've found that creating effective systems for studying, hanging out with friends and (importantly) rest allows me to be successful in ensuring that I have time for all the aspects of my life. I also try to balance challenging myself and overstretching.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Sledding down Slater Hill was such a great experience for me. Not only was it my first time seeing snow/ice, but I got to experience the very creative and adventurous side of the Purdue community.

Kasseidi Lessentine

CEM Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because I was instantly attracted to the large student body, the academic reputation for the college of engineering, the vast amount of networking opportunities allowing me to maximize my post-graduation pathways and the ability for personal growth and development inside and outside of the classroom setting.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose to major in CEM because I grew up helping my father with his construction projects, whether his side jobs or around the house flips, and have always loved doing hands-on tasks that require problem solving and working with others as a team.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is the amount of confidence this program has given me — both professionally and academically. I have done things the former me would never be willing to do. From scheduling a meeting with my advisor to spending hours at Industrial Roundtable, I am further able to magnify how I feel about myself and give myself credit by being intentional with my accomplishments while being aware of the deposits I am making in myself.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secret to success in the College of Engineering is to take time for yourself. Remove all the insane expectations you have for yourself and give yourself time to relax. There is so much emphasis placed on performing well academically and not enough on tuning into your mental wellbeing. You can be there physically, but if you’re not there emotionally or mentally, don’t expect much to come of it.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

One of my favorite Purdue memories is attending basketball games in Mackey Arena with my friends and all being in agreeance that IU sucks.

Shreya Misra

AAE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue University because I wanted to study Aerospace Engineering and Purdue is known as the “cradle of astronauts”. I wanted to receive education at Neil Armstrong’s Alma Mater. As an international student, since I couldn’t visit campus, I connected with a lot of Purdue students on LinkedIn to learn about their experiences and the response was overwhelming. I felt like I had a support system in place before I even got to campus, which is what drove me towards Purdue.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I wanted to constructively contribute to a sustainable framework for the future of our world. I loved studying physics, more specifically astrophysics, in high school and I started asking myself pressing questions about the fate of human civilization and inter-planetary travel. In order to deeply understand those concepts, I knew I needed to pursue a fundamental engineering degree.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

Collaborative environments is my favorite thing about being a Purdue engineer. Whether in design classes or student organizations, there is always room for team-work.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. If you’re an introvert, put yourself in situations where you have to engage with a room full of people you don’t know by going to networking events or visiting a club callout. If you’re scared about doing well in Thermodynamics II, take the class anyway! Struggle a little more, attend SI sessions, go to professor office hours and never shy away from asking for help.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

BGR 2019 is my favorite memory. I met some of my best friends during that time and enjoyed myself a lot!

Colin Mixon

EE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of the strength in their engineering program and the strong community and support system I found on campus.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering because I wanted the opportunity to solve problems and build new things.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

Internship opportunities are my favorite thing about Purdue Engineering.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

My secrets to success are, not getting behind in classes and going to office hours, every single time.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory is meeting my closest friends.

Emily Twomey

CE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of the highly ranked and Civil Engineering program, but also because of the amazing faculty and students.  Purdue is a widely respected school, especially in engineering, and that's exactly what I was looking for.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

Although I've always liked math and science, I chose engineering with the intention of going into civil.  Purdue's numerous options of concentrations within civil engineering was a big deciding factor since I was heart set on studying transportation.  I'm highly interested in transportation infrastructure and want to contribute to the advancements of public transit systems across the the country.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being an Purdue Engineer is something that I would call "academic comradery."  Engineering can be intimidating due to its difficulty and reputation for competition, but at Purdue we are all about working together.  Purdue Engineers aren't afraid to help each other and collaborate, making it a community I am proud to be a part of.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

Being open to experience.  There are a lot of opportunities at Purdue, especially in engineering, and the best thing you can do is say yes and try everything you are interested in.  Don't be afraid to be curious and embrace change.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

Rushing the field after we beat Michigan State!

Madelyn Whitaker

ABE Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because I was really passionate about the student culture on campus and the academics are unmatched. I truly feel like there is such a tight knit community among the study body, even more so within the College of Engineering and I have found that success academically and socially is not limited to a select group of people. There are so many great opportunities to be engaged and so many peers and professionals to connect with. The campus is electric, the people are inspiring and motivating, and the faculty are so unbelievably supportive of all student endeavors, and that has something that I have not felt anywhere else.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering as a major because it holistically combined my love for problem-solving, challenges, and in my case, biology. I have always been really passionate about knowing the intricacies to all things involved in sustaining life, down to the cellular level. In the case of biological engineering, I really enjoy solving the complex problems involved with supporting and engineering life beyond what is accepted on Earth, and have designed my major to cater to my professional goals.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is getting the opportunity to be involved in cohorts and classes that are composed of the next big changemakers. It is really motivating for me to know that I am surrounded and am working with future scientists, discoverers, and professionals. While it is definitely never easy, I have only ever felt like being a Purdue Engineer is the place that I was meant to be.

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

I would definitely say that the secret to success within the College of Engineering is to ask for help and to collaborate. I see so many high achieving students be afraid to ask for help because they fear that it is a sign of weakness, but being able to develop the skillset to advocate for success and ask for help is such a strength and has helped me so much. Utilize office hours, TAs, and faculty as they are only able to help if they know you need it! Self-advocacy can carry people so far and has helped me so much when I am unable to complete assignments or approach complex problems.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory was going to the Purdue vs. Iowa basketball game this past year. I was able to sit behind the band in the Paint Crew and be in Mackey when Purdue was finally ranked #1 in the nation. I definitely lost my voice and my hearing for the hours afterwards but it was so worth it!

Isabelle Yates

BIO Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of the unique opportunities that the university has to offer including several student orgs attached to my major/the college and undergraduate research opportunities. I also chose Purdue because of the phenomenal ABE program and welcoming atmosphere that the campus and community offers.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

I chose engineering because I want to solve problems and find solutions that make life easier and more efficient for those around me. I also love applying engineering principles to everyday life!

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

The best thing about being a Purdue Engineer is the sense of pride and accomplishment that you obtain. There is something very satisfying about finishing a semester long project that you have poured weeks and countless hours into. Learning is one thing but being able to apply it in the classroom as well is something unique that Purdue Engineering offers. Real world experience right in the classroom!

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

The secret to success is being involved in student organizations outside of the classroom. Having an outlet to meet people and have fun outside of assignments is so important to maintaining a balance. Asking for help is also the secret sauce to doing well. Your professors have office hours for a reason, use them!

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

My favorite Purdue memory was going to the Purdue v. UVA game in December of 2019. It was my first ever college basketball game and the first time I was able to experience the environment of Mackey. Haven’t missed a home game since!

Sam Zhang

BME Ambassador

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Why did you choose Purdue?

I chose Purdue because of the amazing engineering program and the friendly environment offered to students. When I toured Purdue, I was immediately drawn by just how nice and welcoming everyone was. I just knew that this was the right place to make some incredible friends and lifelong industry partners.

Why did you choose engineering as a major?

Before coming to college, I had always been fascinated by technology and its applications in healthcare to benefit others. Coupling this with my passion for problem-solving challenges, it became clear to me that I wanted to go into biomedical engineering. I really enjoy the unique and multidisciplinary cross section that is biomedical engineering, along with the diverse applications of all engineering fields.

What is your favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer?

My favorite thing about being a Purdue Engineer is the vast amount of like-minded people you meet along the way. The collaborative and welcoming spaces of Purdue Engineering help to foster a lot of teamwork and friendships. Whether or not they are in your specific engineering major, you will always find others that share the same passion for engineering and problem-solving as you do!

What is your secret to success in the College of Engineering?

While I don’t believe there is a particular “secret to success,” I would only offer the advice of staying organized. Organization and prioritization is crucial to staying on top of all academic and extracurricular deadlines. Whether it is using an agenda pad or an online calendar, making sure that I stay up to date with everything allows me more time to plan or think ahead. Plus, staying organized is a great way to automatically look professional and presentable to others.

What is your favorite Purdue memory?

From storming the Ross-Ade football field to shouting at the top of my lungs in Mackey Arena, or making incredible friendships through classes and clubs, there are so many amazing memories that I can’t possibly choose a favorite!