About Me
My name is Eliza Kaur Mand. I am pursuing a bachelor's degree in manufacturing engineering at Purdue Polytechnic. I am from Kota, Rajasthan, where I completed my high school education. Before joining Purdue, I took a gap year to reflect on life and explore new learning opportunities. My interests lie in the hands-on aspects of engineering, which is why Purdue Polytechnic's applied learning approach appeals to me. During my gap year, I engaged in various experiences, including volunteering, self-learning, and exploring different aspects of technology and design. I look forward to gaining practical skills and industry knowledge that will help shape my future in the field of manufacturing engineering.
Why did you come to Purdue?
I chose Purdue because it is a renowned STEM school with strong programs in engineering and technology. Coming in, I was unsure about my major and explored multiple options, changing my major four to five times during my first semester. By the end of the semester, I found my Manufacturing Engineering Technology (MET) with a focus on Design Enterprise Systems. Taking CNIT 180 helped me realize that Computer and Information Technology (CIT) was not the right fit for me, as its software and hardware framework was less hands-on than I preferred. On the other hand, MFET 103 was a perfect blend of AutoCAD, product lifecycle management, and hand sketching techniques, which aligned more with my interests. TECH 120 gave me valuable hands-on teamwork experience, and EPICS introduced me to real-life projects that provided practical exposure to engineering challenges. These courses helped me solidify my decision to pursue MET, as I thrive in applied, hands-on learning environments that bridge design, manufacturing, and technology.
Goals and Plans
At Purdue, my goal is to gain hands-on experience through at least one research position and secure a co-op opportunity to deepen my understanding of engineering applications. In the short term, I am working on balancing my studies with my part-time job while also pursuing an RA position, which will allow me to develop leadership and community-building skills. After graduating, I plan to work in an engineering role that incorporates software applications, though I am still exploring specific areas within the field. Beyond my career, I have a strong desire to travel and experience different cultures, with plans to explore Europe, fully travel across India, and visit Australia and New Zealand. Through both my academic and professional journey, I hope to grow as a problem-solver, gain global exposure, and continuously challenge myself in both technical and personal aspects.
Best memories and favorite spaces at Purdue
One of my favorite spaces at Purdue is the WALC library, as it provides the perfect environment for me to focus and study effectively. Every time I am there, I find it easier to stay productive and engaged with my coursework. So far, my best experiences at Purdue include BGR and BGRi, both of which were incredibly welcoming and helped me transition into university life. However, the Jumpstart Orientation stands out as one of the most memorable experiences. It gave me the opportunity to make friends before the semester even started, making the transition to college much smoother. From orientation programs to everyday study sessions at WALC, my time at Purdue has been filled with meaningful connections and growth experiences, and I look forward to creating even more memories here.
Experience with PLaCE classes or workshops
I took SCLA 110 with Dr. Matthew Allen in the Fall of 2024. This course helped me develop my ability to write and speak with clarity and precision, think critically and creatively, and analyze ideas deeply. The projects and activities challenged me to express my thoughts effectively and refine my work. One of the most valuable aspects of this course was learning how to adapt to change and connect in multicultural environments, which is essential in both academic and professional settings. It also encouraged me to make sound ethical judgments and understand the historical and societal implications of decisions. What I appreciated most about the course was how it pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to engage actively rather than passively absorb information. The instructor’s guidance and feedback helped me improve my communication and analytical skills, which I believe will benefit my future academic and research work.
Advice to new Purdue students
My biggest advice to new international students is: don’t be afraid to explore and do things alone. It’s completely okay to step out of your comfort zone and try new experiences by yourself. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to people, especially your professors—most of them are incredibly helpful and willing to support you. For English improvement and communication, I highly recommend talking to as many people as possible. Engaging in conversations helps improve both social and communication skills, making it easier to adjust to a new environment. One thing I wish I had known when I started is the importance of effective time management. The first semester can feel overwhelming, and I realized too late that I needed better strategies to balance coursework, social life, and personal time. If I could go back, I would make a conscious effort to use time management techniques early on. Some useful resources I recommend: Purdue CCO for academic and professional guidance, resume building, and job search support. Connecting with seniors—they often know about hidden opportunities and can provide valuable advice. Lastly, never stop learning and exploring! Stay curious, seek out new opportunities, and participate in anything that sparks your interest. Purdue has so much to offer—own your journey and make the most of it!