Exploring possibilities: Students broaden academic pathways at the first Minors and More fair in Indianapolis
INDIANAPOLIS — The halls were buzzing at the first Minors and More event in Indianapolis as Purdue students explored academic pathways beyond their majors.
The fair, held in the atrium of the Engineering and Technology Building (ET) on Feb. 10, brought together faculty, staff and program representatives eager to help students broaden their skills and open new doors.
“Launching our first Minors and More event in Indianapolis illustrates the collaborative spirit we have in Indianapolis,” said Chris Krull, executive director of teaching and learning in Indianapolis. “It is a valuable space for students to engage with academic partners, learn about upcoming course offerings and chart intentional pathways toward minors and certificates.”
At the event, staff members engaged students in conversations about how to customize their academic journeys. Representatives from summer and winter sessions helped students envision minors that could be completed online during academic breaks. Nearby, the Office of Professional Practice highlighted certificate options — such as the co op credential — that combine coursework with industry rotations and connections to sectors such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.
The location in the ET atrium helped attract attention, as many students walk through the building between classes.
For freshman computer science student Nikhil Madakasira, the timing was excellent.
“I wanted to come check out the Data Mine application process, how projects are delegated and what experience you need,” he said, referring to one of Purdue’s learning communities, “but there’s more here than just that.”
Madakasira came across opportunities that ranged from research driven learning experiences to flexible certificate programs.
Motorsports engineering major Renata Chyshkevych wanted to find academic programs that blend technical expertise with broader skills. Chyshkevych, a freshman, explored the certificates for cornerstone and leadership studies, noting how they can support career paths in motorsports, where technical knowledge intersects with communication and management.
“I love liberal arts, and the cornerstone certificate would be really nice because it’s not just reading books: [The discussions] intersect with all the different industries,” Chyshkevych said, adding that “a little bit of business is also helpful to motorsports.”
Minors and More was a snapshot of the many ways Purdue students can shape their educational experiences in Indianapolis to fit their interests. For many who attended, the event marked the beginning of new possibilities as they plan the next steps in their academic careers.
Units and certificates represented at Minors and More
- Center for Career Opportunities
- Certificate of Collaborative Leadership
- Certificate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- College of Engineering
- College of Liberal Arts
- College of Science
- Cornerstone Certificate
- The Data Mine
- Disability Resource Center
- Global Engineering Programs and Partnerships
- John Martinson Honors College
- Mitch Daniels School of Business
- Office of Professional Practice
- Office of Summer and Winter Programs
- Office of Undergraduate Research
- Purdue Polytechnic Institute
- University Undergraduate Academic Advising/Change of Location