With new opportunities on the horizon, Purdue University is expanding its work-integrated learning initiatives to a new urban landscape 65 miles down the road in Indianapolis. This move aims to encourage more students to explore cutting edge technology across industry sectors in the heart of Indiana’s capital.

As part of this exciting development, the Office of Professional Practice (OPP) was a part of the pioneering assisting with the Purdue for Me days in early 2024 talking to the prospective inaugural freshman class. Patrick Francis, Associate Director for Industry Engagement and Partnership has stepped in to lead efforts for OPP assisting with operations, building connectivity and taught three sections of ENGR 103: Intro to Professional Practice last fall during the launch new beginners in Indianapolis. He will continue to be a key conduit for bridging OPP in Indianapolis as an instructor as well expanding Interns for Indiana and other initiatives in the Circle City.  

 

Keeping true to theme of the team in West Lafayette, OPP built a team of dedicate and well-rounded staff members. Katrin Danielson, Assistant Director for Co-op Program and Student Development joined after spending over a decade at IUPUI. Jermaine Williams, Assistant Director for Computer Science Internships and Student Development. With a strong sense of collaboration on the new campus extension, the OPP trio agreed that their north star continues to be creating a welcoming environment that drives students’ success with meaningful professional development opportunities and gain valuable industry knowledge.

For students like Haylie Rayl, a senior in Computer Engineering, joined OPP as a Teaching Assistant (TA) last fall after meeting leadership at the Spring 2024 on-campus job fair. “I wasn’t necessarily looking for an on-campus job when I walked through the career fair.”

 

Rayl has relished her mentorship role, guiding freshmen in resume building, LinkedIn profile development, and cover letter writing. “I didn’t have a resume or LinkedIn as a freshman, so I’m thrilled these students are getting a head start,” she said. Helping them navigate their first year has been one of her most fulfilling college experiences. “Being a mentor has given me a sense of purpose and connection. Watching their growth reminds me of my own journey.”

 

Thomas Weber, a Motorsports Engineering and Mechanical Engineering student from Newburgh, Indiana, also serves as a TA Mentor. Transferring to IUPUI for better internship opportunities, Weber became part of the inaugural Purdue in Indianapolis student body.

 

His passion for mentorship stems from his own experiences. “In a way, it was like being transported back to my first semester in college, their hunger and ambition were infectious,” he shared. “Getting to guide my mentees through a situation where everything was changing was incredibly meaningful, especially since I also get to see, guide, and be a positive role model for them through the many student organizations I take part in. I truly believe I helped to set up my mentees to succeed in their studies and careers along with growing my own leadership and communication skills. I feel I learned almost as much as my students did.” Reflecting on Indianapolis, he calls it the perfect place for his studies, balancing big-city opportunities with small-town charm. “With Purdue’s backing, I feel more empowered to pursue invaluable external opportunities.”

Jermaine Williams Jr., Ph.D., joined OPP with more than six years of experience in student mentorship and fostering inclusive learning environments, he previously served as an Area Director at Arizona State University.

 

Williams holds a B.S. in Informatics from Indiana University-Bloomington and an M.A. in Arts Administration. He is currently pursuing a doctorate at The University of Arizona, researching Black Student Placemaking and Digital Engagement. A member of the National Society of Black Engineers, he has advised collegiate chapters at Indiana University and Arizona State University.

 

An Indianapolis native, Williams sees Purdue in Indianapolis as a unique platform for innovation. “The most rewarding part has been watching our students evolve and celebrating their achievements,” he said. His role blends professional development with student success and creating a unique sense of community for students in the College of Science.

 

Assistant Director Katrin Danielson shares his enthusiasm. She leads Co-op Programs & Student Development in Indianapolis, overseeing co-op program implementation and serve as a multi-faceted role helping with industry exposure and education. Danielson will collaborate with campus partners enhance cooperative education, ensure students understand the power of registering their experiences and be an instructor ENGR 103: Intro to Professional Practice.

 

Originally an international student, Danielson earned her Purdue degree from the College of Science. With more than seven years of experience in student services at IUPUI, she now focuses on connecting success from OPP’s top-ranked co-op program to Indianapolis operations.

 

“It’s been exciting to see first-year students already securing internships and co-ops,” Danielson said. “Watching them take advantage of the resources we offer is incredibly rewarding.”

 

As Purdue’s presence in Indianapolis continues to grow, the OPP team remains committed to mentorship and career readiness. The collaboration among students, staff, and industry partners embodies Purdue’s mission to cultivate the next generation of professionals.

 

Patrick Francis reflected on the first year in Indianapolis, “We did a lot of things for the first-time in Indianapolis but we’ve strived to continue to do what we do best. We’ve seen freshman earn their first co-op offers, we’ve bridged some of our top industry partners to recruit in Indy and it’s only the beginning as we strive to keep the driving Indianapolis and Purdue forward. 

 

 

Story By: Margaret Mowrer