Indianapolis profile: Jaden Ko
A sophomore student studying mechanical engineering in Indianapolis, Jaden Ko enjoys the balance between his educational experience and the many activities that the capital city has to offer. (Photo provided by Jaden Ko)
What are you studying at Purdue?
I am studying mechanical engineering in Indianapolis.
What have been your favorite classes so far?
One of my favorite classes so far has been ME 270: Basic Mechanics I. That was the first class I took that was related to mechanical engineering. The class was small, so I was able to get to know the others in my class and the professor well, and it was the right balance of learning and fun.
Another class I enjoyed was CHM 11510: General Chemistry I. I was able to be with all my friends from Boiler Gold Rush, and we had fun in the class together.
Why did you choose to come to Indianapolis?
One reason I came to Indianapolis was being able to explore a new city. I’m always interested in learning new things, and coming from New Jersey, I knew Indy would have a lot to offer. Being in Indy is definitely a different lifestyle from what I was used to, but I find it to be a good balance — it’s a city with a lot of activities, but it’s not too big to be overwhelming.
What has your experience been like getting an early connection to industry from being located in Indianapolis?
I have had the opportunity to attend many career fairs, and being in Indy has made it easier to find local employers who are closer to the city. I was even able to get a co-op experience at one of these fairs. Another advantage I found with being in Indy is the access to sites to visit for engineering. As a freshman, I was able to get a private tour of the Dallara factory. This was a cool way to see my first manufacturing site as an engineer and learn about the way some companies run. These opportunities help to foster my growth with companies that are local to Indianapolis.
Are you part of any clubs or student activities? If so, which ones? Has that participation enhanced your college experience?
I actively participate in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). This club allows me to meet with my peers, work on engineering projects and see a project develop over time. ASME helped me to develop my technical and teamwork skills. I recently joined the Indy climbing club, too. I just got into bouldering, and this club allows me to spend time with people who enjoy similar activities.
The experience that has impacted me the most has been being a part of the John Martinson Honors College (JMHC). At the JMHC, I have been able to meet so many of the people I am friends with now and participate in activities such as pumpkin painting, Valentine’s Day flower bouquet making, gingerbread house contests and much more. It’s helped me both build skills as an engineer and make close friends.
Outside of school and work, what are some of the things you enjoy about being in Indianapolis?
I enjoy going to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. I listen to classical music, so having a local, skilled orchestra is very nice. I also like to go to Mass Ave with my friends. After one of my midterms, my friends and I went there to eat and decompress after a difficult exam while spending time together out in the city.
There are so many experiences [in Indianapolis] to take advantage of, like going to a Pacers game, and I’ve been able to balance my educational experience with the experiences the city has to offer. Indianapolis has been a great place for me.