Advice For New Students

With almost 2 weeks of classes over, most students are settling into their new schedules and niches for the Fall Semester. Finding that much needed balance between classes, having fun, and staying healthy can be hard to find – even for the students who have been at Purdue for several semesters. For those who are at Purdue for the first time, it can be a big transition moving away from home, experiencing a different type of independence, and finding the balance of it all. Some of the upperclassmen who work in the Office of Future Engineers have created some advice for the new students at Purdue:


“Definitely get involved on campus and try a lot of different organizations to find your fit but don’t get too involved” – Marissa Marks


 “My advice to freshmen would be to not take yourself too seriously but to continually pour yourself into the things you're passionate about (student organizations, classes in your major, etc.). Blur the lines of school/work/life balance and actually just give your whole self to those things and it will pay off in intrinsic reward and further opportunity.” – Erin Suttles


“Get more involved in campus events even if it’s just sporting events.” – Colin Mixon


“Academically, try to stay one or two days ahead of homework. Outside of class, watch for flyers and sidewalk chalk about events going on around campus. When you see something fun or that you’re interested in, go for it! Especially if it’s just an hour commitment or one day event.” – Gabe Opsahl


“Use all the academic resources available like SI sessions” – Andrew Lepore



“Treat this as a 9-5 job. Go to class, take a lunch break, go back to class, and study in between it all. Don’t go back to your room in the evening until it’s all done.” – Aaron Karver