Purdue University-Main Campus

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN, USA
Public
4 Year

Christina's Review

Review of Purdue University-Main Campus

from Gurnee, IL

Describe your college in three sentences.

Purdue changed my life. I have learned so much, thank you. Hard to say goodbye.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

Please, please, please, please stay focused. I know how tempting it is to say that you can go out for an hour and you'll get to that assignment later. But trust me, easier said than done. College is the best, worst, craziest, easiest, and most stressful part of your life. Sometimes all at the same time. But you're here for a reason. To educate yourself. Don't get all wrapped up in the glories of adulthood because your childhood will pass you by. And the one thing I miss the most is my easy-going childhood.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

Purdue is hard. Like, duh, right? But hear me out. This is not the type of school to slack off in. Especially for engineering. Keep up with your studies or you will fall behind.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

The dorms are so much fun. I highly recommend that freshman live in the dorm for their first year. This is where you make your closest friends. The ones that will stick by you for the next 4 years. And of course you'll make more, but these ones are special. Plus, there are a bunch of activities each hall and floor do just to give you the chance to socialize. But, if you don't want to live in the dorm, you don't have to. There are plenty of places to live on and off campus that aren't dorms.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

Ah, the dining courts. The waiting for an hour on chicken tender and make your own mac and cheese night. I, personally, like the food. It's pretty good. Plus if you have the meal plan it's SO convenient. The way it works is like this: You buy a plan (say 13 swipes per week). 3 meals a day, the courts are open 3 times a day for 6 days, closed Sunday (if I remember correctly). So you are basically covered for the whole week. Plus you get to eat and not have to worry about cooking yourself food or buying groceries. Plus if you can't sit down and eat, there are on-the-go options. But, if you don't want to pay for the meal plan (which could be expensive depending on what you get) there are plenty of restaurants to go to or order from. Because delivery is huge on campus, why walk to a place when someone can bring the food to you?

What’s there to do for fun at your college?

What can't you do? There's bowling at the Union, the gym to work out, the movies, clubs, sports games, and Indianapolis is just a bus ride away. So much to do without being crowded or distracted. I love how big campus is, but what I love more is how we're not surrounded by a huge city, full of distractions. There is plenty to do, you will not go bored, trust me. If you are lucky enough to have spare time, don't waste it. As important as studying is, getting some fresh air and going out is actually very good for you. Us engineers can only take so much learning about pipe flow in a week.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

Purdue is very expensive for us out of state students. It can get hard; budgeting, making sure you have enough money for food and rent, but I would do it all over again if I had to. I'm getting a world class education and the title of a PURDUE GRADUATE. I say that's worth it. Purdue's engineering program in world renowned, and the experience has been amazing. I have the best professors and the best classmates because every one of us is serious about furthering our educations.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I really don't want to spoil too much, but I'll hint at some things. You'll have to figure it out: Humans shooting "zombies" with Nerf guns. Can't forget the sock "grenades"! Go below the Union for some fun for the whole family. Take a nice look at our clock tower, it's special. There's a hug circle on the ground behind the Union. Go to the middle and clap. I hope you can find the Star Wars room. :)

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Nerds. Athletes. Introverts. Extroverts. Literally everyone. You really find your kind here. Are you the nerdy, athlete that likes to volunteer and go to church? There are dozens like you. Are you the shy, workaholic that loves music? There are dozens like you. Are you the video game player that likes to code and cook in your spare time? There are dozens like you. Don't be shy, talk to each other. We're all here to learn and make memories.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

I'm not lying when I say that Purdue has HUNDREDS of clubs and activities. From intramural sports to the board game club. If you like doing something in your spare time, there are probably of club of people just like you. And if there isn't, you cna always make your own. Also, there is a Disney club. Enough said.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

I'm no expert on the greek life but what I can tell you is that there are so many houses for each kind of person. There's an engineering sorority, a frat that focuses on business and soccer, a science frat, etc. You'll fit into multiple houses, and the memories and friendships you make there will last a life time. College is what you make it. You don't need to be a part of greek life to make it through, but you can join if you want. That's the beauty of it.

How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?

I feel completely safe walking on campus. We have the blue boxes that call the police if you feel scared. A cop will come to you and walk you home if you want. And there are plenty of street lights keeping the campus lit. There is also an email service and text service that alerts everyone of event. I sometimes see cops patrolling around too. There is an on-campus police station and an on-campus fire station. There is even an on-campus health center to help students if they are sick, injured, or need a check up.