Tahani – Purdue University – USA
Semester 1, 2025
Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
Hi, I’m Tahani and I am in my second last year of my Law/Business degree. I completed my minor in political science at Purdue University in semester 1, 2025. As an avid follower of US politics, I always dreamt of studying in the US to immerse myself in US culture and get to know the ‘average American’. I had always been drawn to the idea of doing a study exchange and Purdue University was on the top of my list because of its academic rigor, reputation and location. My semester abroad at Purdue wasn’t just an academic detour. It was a personal journey that challenged, humbled, and inspired me in more ways than I expected.
Settling in and Accommodation
When I arrived in early January, it was around -20° and on one day it went down to -30°! To say it was a shock to the system would be an understatement — coming from Brisbane, where January days often hit 35°. I had never experienced cold like that before, let alone seen real snow.
I took part in Boiler Cold Rush (BCR), a two-day orientation program that gave us a warm welcome to Purdue and helped us connect with fellow students. I was placed in a group with other international students, guided by two friendly and enthusiastic American leaders. Our group quickly bonded, and what began as a simple orientation turned into the start of some truly lasting friendships.
I stayed in on-campus accommodation, which proved to be a great decision — even if it meant a 20-minute walk to most of my classes. Given the sheer size of the campus, that was pretty standard. The facilities themselves weren’t particularly new or flashy, but they were consistently clean, well-maintained, and had everything I needed to feel comfortable and settled.
Adjusting to the harsh Midwest winter was definitely a challenge. Every trip outside meant bundling up in four layers just to brave the elements. And the moment I stepped into a heated classroom, I’d immediately peel off two of them. That routine carried on for the first couple of months until it got a little warmer (still chilly by Brisbane standards but after weeks of snow and sub-zero winds, the milder temperatures were a definite welcome).
Subjects/Study
I thoroughly enjoyed the four subjects I studied within the College of Liberal Arts. The professors were not only highly knowledgeable in their fields, but also incredibly approachable and genuinely invested in their students’ learning. They brought real-world relevance into the classroom, encouraged critical thinking and fostered open and engaging discussions. Interestingly, although I found the content less conceptually challenging than my coursework at QUT, the workload was quite intense – each subject required consistent weekly engagement, with regular quizzes, essays, and hours of reading.
Campus life
The Purdue spirit was always alive and well! Wearing Purdue merch felt like part of the daily uniform — everyone was proudly rocking black and gold. Whether it was a hoodie, a beanie, or even a water bottle, Boilermaker pride was everywhere. Emails and messages ended with a signature Purdue salutation, and the university’s colours were woven into every corner of campus life. This created an atmosphere that was not only exciting but also incredibly welcoming — it made me feel like I belonged from the very start.
With over 1,000 student clubs at Purdue, there was truly something for everyone. These clubs regularly hosted events big and small, most of them free and often accompanied by giveaways, prizes, and plenty of food. A few times a week, my friends and I would head to these events to unwind, connect, and have some fun — it became a lively and rewarding part of our routine that kept campus life exciting and social. When I wasn’t in class or attending events, I was usually sharing meals with friends, exploring different corners of campus, hitting the gym, or diving into my studies. It was a well-rounded routine that kept each day full and fulfilling.
Purdue’s basketball team is one of the best in the nation, and getting to attend one of their games was hands down one of my favourite memories. The arena was packed to the rafters, buzzing with electric energy and overflowing with Boilermaker pride. From start to finish, we were on our feet — cheering nonstop, trading chants, and playfully taunting the opposition as we joined in every rallying cry.
Experience
My semester abroad was truly one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. It challenged and shaped me in ways I never anticipated — I learned so much about myself and formed friendships and memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
If you’re even thinking about doing a semester abroad, my advice is simple: go for it. It’s about so much more than academics. It’s about the unexpected adventures, the lasting connections, and the moments that take you by surprise — in the best way.
Find out more on how you can apply: Student Exchange
