New Student Priority Tasks

As you get ready to join Purdue, use this moment to imagine an experience that’s truly your own. There are so many opportunities to explore—research, dual majors, certificates and minors, internships, research, clubs and organizations, study abroad and so much more. What you choose to get involved in will shape your college experience and help you figure out what’s next for you. Commit now to making Purdue your Purdue!

In support of a smooth transition from high school to Purdue Science, your fellow College of Science students offer the following advice.

Build Your Circle

When you first join the Purdue community, one of the most important things you can do is start building relationships that will support you academically, personally, and professionally. Professors, advisors, and staff are all here to help you succeed—but it’s up to you to connect with them. By getting involved and building your network early, you’ll have the support you need to navigate challenges and reach your goals.

Use Your Resources

As Purdue students, we’re part of a top research institution with a lot of opportunities—but also higher expectations. College of Science classes are a step up from high school, requiring more effort, deeper thinking, stronger problem-solving, and better time management.

The good news is there’s a ton of support here if you use it. From academic help to wellness and mental health resources, Purdue really does have your back. Start using these resources early, stay proactive, and have a plan—it makes a big difference.

Shift Your Academic Focus

A lot of us came in used to doing well on our own—studying solo and figuring things out independently. But here, that only goes so far. What really helps is shifting how you learn.

Instead of trying to do everything on your own, go to office hours, talk with professors and TAs, study with classmates, and use resources like the Center for Academic Success. The more you lean into learning with others, the faster things start to click. The College really encourages that kind of environment—people want to help, and it makes adjusting and succeeding a lot easier.

Stay on Top of Your Time

One of the biggest things we’ve learned is that time management can make or break your success at Purdue. In high school, your schedule was structured for you—but here, you’re in charge. Most of us take 15–18 credit hours, and with studying (about 2 hours per credit hour), that’s around a 45-hour academic week.

It sounds like a lot, but having a plan makes it manageable. Build a schedule before the semester starts and stick to it as much as you can. With lectures, labs, assignments, and everything else going on, it’s easy to fall behind if you’re not intentional. Treat your time like it matters—because it does.

Befriend the Struggle

One thing we wish we understood earlier is that struggling is part of the process. College of Science courses can be tough, but you’re here for a reason—you earned your spot.

Not everything will go perfectly, and that’s okay. A bad exam or a difficult class doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means you’re learning. What matters most is how you respond. When you start seeing setbacks as part of the process, it’s easier to stay motivated and keep going.

Our biggest advice? Don’t be afraid of failure—learn from it. Keep showing up, keep putting in the effort, and trust that you’ll improve over time. That mindset makes a huge difference.

With your priority tasks in mind let’s get started on the best time of your life!

Lynne Horngren

Director, Undergraduate Education and Academic Advising

College of Science