Terry Gilbert

Terry Gilbert

Associate Director of Admissions — National Recruitment

Tips for applying

For a lot of students, the most anxiety-inducing element of the application is the essays. I get it. It’s challenging to compose a compelling narrative that you may feel impossibly asks you to reduce your entire life’s dreams, goals and passions into a 250-word writing. I encourage you to evaluate your “why” and connect it to your lived experiences and future aspirations. If you want to become a veterinarian, explain why treating animal patients motivates you — beyond the love for your family’s Golden Lab. If you’re inspired to pursue research, let us know why that’s important to you and what you’ve done to prep for your dream breakthrough. If you dream of joining Purdue’s Marching Band, let us know why and how that would be a unique experience found only at Purdue. Everyone has a unique story. The essays are your canvas to help us understand yours!

Favorite campus spot

My favorite location on campus is Mackey Arena. Even those who aren’t basketball fans are captivated by the energy of the Mackey crowds and history that surrounds the rafters and concourse. There’s no comparison to the deafening roar of passionate Purdue fans after a key defensive stop or big three-point shot! We love our Boilermaker basketball teams!