Graduate Student Ambassador Stories

What Purdue Can Offer You

Story by Nafiu Oloore
July 01, 2024

Purdue University, situated in West Lafayette, Indiana, is celebrated for its dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and research. Established in 1869, Purdue has flourished into a leading university, offering a plethora of programs and opportunities for students. The reasons to consider Purdue University are as diverse as its offerings, including its academic programs, research opportunities, campus facilities, student life, and career support services.

Purdue University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines. However, Purdue University is mainly known for its engineering, technology, and science programs. The College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top engineering schools in the United States, offering specialized programs in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering fields. Beyond engineering, Purdue provides robust programs in agriculture, business, liberal arts, health sciences, and more. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and interdisciplinary, encouraging students to explore multiple fields of study and develop a well-rounded academic system.

Purdue University’s graduate and professional programs are a testament to its international standard.  The Office of Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars oversees a myriad of master’s and doctoral programs, fostering advanced research and academic excellence. For instance, the Krannert School of Management offers highly esteemed MBA and PhD programs that attract international students. Purdue's College of Pharmacy and College of Veterinary Medicine provide specialized training for future professionals in these critical fields. The university’s unwavering commitment to graduate education is palpable in its comprehensive support for research, teaching, and professional development.

The University is a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation. With annual research expenditures exceeding $700 million, Purdue ranks among the top public research institutions in the United States. The School’s Discovery Park, with its $1 billion development worth, is a complex dedicated to interdisciplinary research and houses initiatives that address global challenges in areas such as energy, healthcare, and sustainability. Research centers like the Birck Nanotechnology Center and the Bindley Bioscience Center exemplify Purdue's commitment to pioneering groundbreaking research and discoveries.

Undergraduate students at Purdue also have ample opportunities to engage in research. Programs such as the Purdue Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE) and the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) provide platforms for students to collaborate with faculty on significant research projects. These experiences are invaluable in fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an insatiable pursuit of discovery and passion.

Purdue’s campus has state-of-the-art facilities that support academic and extracurricular activities. The Wilmeth Active Learning Center (WALC) is a prime example, offering modern classrooms, collaborative spaces, and advanced technological resources. The Armstrong Hall of Engineering and the Beering Hall of Liberal Arts and Education are designed to provide optimal learning environments for students.

The Purdue University Libraries system is another critical asset, comprising numerous libraries that offer extensive collections, digital resources, and research support. The Hicks Undergraduate Library and the Humanities, Social Science, and Education Library (HSSE) cater specifically to undergraduate and graduate research needs. These resources are essential for academic success and intellectual growth.

Purdue University is home to a vibrant and diverse student body. The university's commitment to inclusion is reflected in its numerous cultural centers, including the Black Cultural Center, the Latino Cultural Center, and the Asian American and Asian Resource and Cultural Center. These centers provide support, advocacy, and community for students from diverse backgrounds.

A plethora of extracurricular activities enrich student life at Purdue. The university boasts over 1,000 student organizations, ranging from academic and professional societies to cultural and recreational clubs. The Purdue Student Government and the Purdue Graduate Student Government offer platforms for student representation and leadership development. The France A. Córdova Recreational Sports Center also provides facilities for fitness, sports, and wellness activities, promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Purdue University is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers. The Center for Career Opportunities (CCO) offers comprehensive career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job search assistance. The CCO also hosts career fairs that connect students with potential employers and facilitate internships, co-op programs, and full-time employment opportunities.

Another significant advantage for students is the strength of Purdue's alumni network. Purdue alumni are leaders in various industries worldwide, and the Purdue Alumni Association fosters connections through networking events, mentoring programs, and online communities. This extensive network provides valuable support and opportunities for current students and recent graduates.

Purdue University is a premier institution that offers many opportunities for academic growth, research innovation, personal development, and career advancement. Its robust academic programs, cutting-edge research facilities, diverse campus life, and comprehensive career services make it an ideal choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience. By providing a supportive and dynamic environment, Purdue empowers its students to achieve their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.


The views of the author are not necessarily those of the OGSPS or Purdue University.