When I started my undergraduate degree in Materials Engineering at Purdue, I knew I wanted to continue learning beyond my bachelor’s but wasn’t sure a research-focused master’s or PhD was the right path for me. The 4+1 combined MSE program offered exactly what I was looking for: an extra year to take more specialized classes, explore different areas of materials science, and strengthen my technical foundation before stepping into industry.

 

Through the program, I plan to deepen my understanding of composites, polymers, and failure analysis. I discovered my interest in failure analysis through my coursework at Purdue, while my internship with Hexcel Corporation introduced me to polymer chemistry and the process of combining carbon fiber and resin matrices to create strong yet lightweight materials. I am especially excited to take graduate-level courses like Polymer Synthesis, Experimental Characterization of Advanced Composite Materials, and Microstructural Characterization Techniques, which connect directly to real-world applications in aerospace and data-driven materials research.

 

My advice to anyone considering the 4+1 track is to take time to reflect on your goals and talk to professors, advisors, and peers. It is okay not to have everything figured out. The 4+1 program is a great opportunity to keep learning, stay curious, and prepare yourself for wherever your materials engineering journey leads.