Purdue University Family Guide
Welcome Purdue Families
As the parent of two recent college graduates, I know how it feels to entrust your student to an institution where the experience will have such an influence on her life. And as a parent, it is with great sincerity that I tell you Purdue University is a place where your young adult will thrive.
At Purdue you’ll find a dynamic, comprehensive university where opportunities for exploration and growth are boundless. But Purdue is also a close-knit community in which we recognize our people, including students, are our greatest strength.
Our University is committed to education as it relates to long-term career development. With emphasis on experiential learning, our students are able to apply textbook theory through hands-on activities. And faculty, who are among the leaders in their respective fields, are readily available to assist students in everything from individual classroom assignments to long-term career planning.
By design, not everything about your student’s Purdue experience will be easy. Our students face challenges every day. Professors have high expectations for students to think critically and make informed decisions. Our students become effective managers of their time as they balance multiple priorities. But resources to help students are abundant and by facing these challenges our students learn, grow, and recognize their own potential as they develop into confident young adults who are prepared to succeed and lead in a global society.
Also by design, not everything will be challenging. Our students are fun, engaging, and spirited, and their after-class activities are a significant part of the Purdue experience. It’s not uncommon to see students sledding down Slayter Hill on cafeteria trays (and possibly a couch or canoe) on a snowy winter day. The sound emanating from “The Paint Crew” in Mackey Arena during a close game against a Big Ten rival can be deafening. The number of student organizations on our campus grows each year, now numbering more than 900!
“Launching Tomorrow’s Leaders” is at the heart of Purdue’s strategic plan as we help students establish a strong foundation for success throughout their lives. I know I speak for the entire University as I welcome your family to Purdue and express our commitment to your student’s education and career preparation.
Hail Purdue!
Pamela T. Horne
Dean of Admissions and Associate Vice Provost for Enrollment Management
