Name: Tamara

Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana
Major: Education with a minor in dance
College/School: Liberal Arts/CODO in College of Education

Making the BIG Decision
I chose Purdue because my plan was to major in engineering, and Purdue is one of the best schools for engineering in the country. I decided to change my major to education, but in the process I grew to love Purdue because of the nice, friendly people I met. I became so involved with Purdue that even if I wanted to change universities I couldn't because I grew to love Purdue so much.

How I Got Involved

• Jahari Dance Troupe — student coordinator
• Repertory Dance Company
• Windsor Halls — big sister
• National Society of Black Engineers
• Meredith Hall — senator
• Peer Mentor

Residence Hall Life
My first year at Purdue, I lived in Meredith Residence Hall. I liked living in a residence hall because it helped me make new friends — some of whom are still my close friends today. I also got involved with activities within the residence hall; I was the senator of my floor. Also, the environment and resident assistants were very friendly and welcoming!

Most Memorable Purdue Experience
I highly recommend that all freshmen go to BGR (Boiler Gold Rush), a week of fun and activities that helps new students get to know the campus and meet new people. BGR is where I met my new friends. Each day there are different activities from morning until evening, and the group leaders are very fun and helpful.

What the Future Holds
My long-term goal is to give back to the public schools. I went to public school my entire life and I think public schools are lacking good math teachers. I also want to be a good role model to inner-city kids to help encourage them to go the next step in life, which is college. I also want to put together a dance squad for the schools at which I work.