What made you decide to choose your specific major?
At first, I was pursuing the minor in Digital Enterprise Systems, but the classes I took ended up being my two favorite classes I’d taken so far. I discovered how much I enjoyed learning about the connection between digital tools and real-world manufacturing. That’s when I decided to go all in and switch to the major. I wanted to be part of a field that’s constantly evolving and preparing for what comes next in industry.
My manufacturing internship this past summer with Saab Aerospace Systems reaffirmed that decision even more, showing me just how relevant everything I’m learning really is to today’s rapidly changing manufacturing world.
In high school, I saw a Polytechnic Institute promotion with “uniquely qualified graduates” that featured Angel Price, who works for The Walt Disney Company, a dream workplace of mine. Seeing her credit Polytechnic as an integral part of her career journey inspired me and made me excited about the kinds of opportunities this path could lead to. I had the privilege of meeting Angel when I was on the Disney College Program during my first semester of sophomore year.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
I appreciate how flexible the plan of study is. There are more corequisites than prerequisites, which makes it much easier to take advantage of opportunities such as study abroad, co-ops and internships during the school year without falling behind. I also love how the curriculum blends hands-on technical skills with a systems-based mindset. We learn to think about how every design decision impacts the larger system, from assembly and maintenance to supply chain and long-term efficiency. We even explore how to integrate AI into our design process, reflecting on how it can enhance or complicate our work and learning to use it thoughtfully without losing sight of design intent.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
My favorite project thus far has been building a guitar under the guidance of Dr. French in the Guitar Lab. This experience was incredibly rewarding because I was able to take a project from concept to completion, gaining practical woodworking and engineering skills along the way. It was also an opportunity to connect with upperclassmen and guitar enthusiasts who gave me advice and insights that I wouldn’t have received otherwise.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
Intramural volleyball, GroupX, a mentor for Women in Technology and School of Engineering Technology (SoET) Ambassadors. I also volunteer with A Cause for Paws and recently earned my CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers certification through the Red Cross. Beyond that, I’m participating in Purdue’s study abroad and global engineering programs, which will take me to Sweden for eight months in 2026.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
Technology is advancing faster than ever and our courses teach us not only how to use the tools currently in industry, but also how to adapt, innovate and learn new ones as they emerge. This program has prepared me to go with the flow of technological change and be excited about the tools and processes that might not even exist yet!
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
Don’t be afraid to seek out opportunities and ask for help! Purdue can feel overwhelming at first, but there are so many resources available, from professors to campus organizations. Whether it’s reaching out to a professor or connecting with clubs and mentors, taking initiative can open doors to incredible experiences. Remember, you can make a large school feel smaller, but you can't make a small school bigger.