Student Spotlight

Anjali Gupta

Major: Chemistry & Education

Oh hey! My name is Anjali Gupta, and I am from Zionsville, Indiana. I am majoring in Chemistry Education.

Studying science has always been a no-brainer, but teaching wasn't. I've always wanted to impact various people on their own paths, which is how I landed on Chemistry Education. The Honors College supports my interests because my major is interdisciplinary in nature. As a future educator, I will work with students of varying interests and backgrounds. I get to interact with such students within honors! Additionally, the Honors College’s pillar of Undergraduate Research was a huge plus. I don't plan on teaching forever. I would love to pursue policy one day. So, the opportunity for educational research was my main draw to the Honors College and Purdue in general!

Believe it or not, my favorite part of being an honors student is not the academics but the community! I am constantly surrounded by driven and passionate people who motivate and enrich me. The diversity of thought is something I never expected but appreciate more than ever. Everyone comes from different places and brings different perspectives to the table. After one year, I have already become more well-rounded, open-minded, and aware. I partly owe that to Purdue's Big Ten atmosphere, but also to the honors community.

Many assume that honors students don’t have time for anything but school, but that’s far from the truth. Aside from Honors Ambassadors, I’m involved in Morale, a committee of Purdue University Dance Marathon (PUDM), and Purdue Aspiring Educators (PAE). I’m also a Teaching Assistant and conduct undergraduate research. I’m able to commit to an important cause and an exciting new community through Morale. And I get to talk about education with my friends in PAE. Honors has never inhibited my ability to pursue other activities. In fact, I may join more!

Again, one of the best things about Purdue is the opportunity it provides. Last summer, I studied away in Cambodia. I toured the country, learning about the customs, religious influence, art, and of course, the food. I also spent two weeks teaching in an international school. I planned my lessons and labs while navigating teaching students of varying English proficiency. Words cannot describe how grateful I am for the opportunity to practice teaching before my senior year! That’s something pretty unique to Purdue.

To prospective students – Honors isn't as intimidating as it sounds. I encourage you to research the program and see how honors courses fit into your curriculum. It's not an extra load - just a different one! Additionally, Honors will give you opportunities to explore many passions. People research so many topics, from sports to music. College is a time to thrive and tap into what makes you "you!" And Honors is a place where it's cool to do that.