As I wrap up my first year in Purdue’s Professional Master’s Program (PMP) in Chemical Engineering, it feels like a good time to pause and take stock. What a year it’s been, filled with challenges, growth, and a complete shift in how I see my career. I came here with two years of experience in agrochemical manufacturing, curious about how I could pivot into pharmaceutical engineering. Looking back, the transformation has been real.

Making Academics Make Sense: From Theory to Application

One of the best parts of the PMP program is how grounded it is in real-world application. Courses like Principles of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Crystallization Systems Engineering didn’t just teach theory. They helped me connect the dots between science and industry. For instance, the Principles of Pharmaceutical Engineering course introduced me to the intricacies of drug formulation, manufacturing simulations, and stringent quality control protocols. I finally understood how tightly regulated and technically complex pharma really is.

Crystallization Systems Engineering was another standout. It combined thermodynamics, kinetics, and process design with case studies that brought everything to life. Through industrial case studies and hands-on simulations to develop dynamic models of crystallization systems.

Learning Beyond the Classroom: Site Visits and Industry Insights

Another major strength of the program is how closely it ties into industry. Site visits weren’t just a break from class. They were eye-opening experiences that connected classroom learning with industrial reality. At Evonik, we saw what it takes to scale up small molecule and API production, ensuring consistency batch after batch.

At AstraZeneca, we followed the journey of a molecule turning into a finished drug product. The visit to Eli Lilly took it even further, walking us through biologics manufacturing, purification, final formulation, and even medical device development. These experiences made it clear how deeply engineering and healthcare are intertwined, not just in manufacturing but in ensuring efficacy, safety, and scalability.

Adding Business Acumen to Technical Expertise

Purdue’s PMP program doesn’t stop at technical depth. The integrated management coursework has been equally impactful. Courses like Financial Analysis, Applied Marketing for Engineers, Strategic Management helped me develop business fluency that complements my engineering background. It’s become clear how valuable it is to think not just like an engineer, but like a leader who understands both the technical and commercial sides of the business.

Connecting My Past to My Future

Before attending Purdue, I worked at Gharda Chemicals Ltd., one of India’s leading agrochemical manufacturers. I spent two years tackling real production issues, optimizing processes, and working across multi-product lines. That experience became a solid foundation for this new direction. The core principles of chemical engineering haven’t changed. Whether it’s refining a crystallization step or improving solvent recovery, the thought process stays the same. What changes is the level of precision and regulatory scrutiny, especially in pharma.

Advice for New PMP Students

Take initiative beyond lectures. Talk to industry guests. Stay curious during site visits. Attend research symposia and participate in student organizations. The PMP experience is as rich as you make it. Also, use academic projects to build your resume. Pick topics that show you can apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to stand out.

A Year of Real Change

Reflecting on this past year, I see more than just academic progress—I see personal growth, professional clarity, and a new momentum in my career journey. Purdue’s Davidson School of Chemical Engineering prepares you for more than just a job. It equips you to lead, to innovate, and to solve meaningful problems with confidence. Looking ahead, I am excited to contribute to the advancement of continuous manufacturing, optimizing API production for greater efficiency and quality consistency. My vision is to drive innovations that accelerate drug availability while maintaining affordability and safety.