Settle In at Purdue
You've finally moved in and attended your first week of classes. Here are some ways to make Purdue feel like home.
Purdue Musical Organizations (PMO)
Do you have an interest in music? Joining Purdue’s Musical Organizations is a great way to get connected.
Concert Bands/Orchestras
There are ensembles for various levels of commitment, whether you are looking for a casual club or to join one of their many bands or orchestras for university credit. To receive credit in a concert setting, become a member of one of Purdue’s concert bands/orchestras. These groups are open to anyone of any skill level and offer instruments to those without their own.
The bands that Purdue offers are:
- Wind Ensemble
- Symphonic Band
- Concert Band
- Collegiate Band
- University Band
- Varsity Band
- Campus Band
- Small Ensembles
The orchestras that Purdue offers are:
- Philharmonic Orchestra
- Symphony Orchestra
- Concert Orchestra
- University Orchestra
- Sandra Yover Haas Quartet
- Chamber Ensembles
Purdue’s “All American” Marching Band
Purdue’s “All American” Marching Band is a high-level marching band that spreads school spirit through its themes and shows. They not only perform at football games but also travel the campus to brighten the atmosphere.
This band practices for several hours a week and can be a large time commitment for some, but acts as the musical pride and symbol of Purdue. Excellence in your instrument is additionally recommended, as a week-long audition is necessary to join the band.
For more information, go to the All-American Marching Band website.
Other Bands
Purdue offers several other bands from pep bands to lessons for new players. This allows students to explore the full extent of their musical interests.
For more information, go to: Purdue Bands and Ensembles.
Get Involved
Explore the many ways to get involved on campus through Purdue extracurriculars!
Club Sports
Purdue sports are a social, competitive athletic event available to any interested student. The club sports they offer are:
- Archery
- Badminton
- Baseball
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Fencing
- Gymnastics
- Judo
- Karate
- Kendo
- Lacrosse
- Outing Club
- Pickleball
- Quadball
- Rifle & Pistol
- Rugby
- Running
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swim
- Table Tennis
- Tennis
- Tae Kwon Do
- Triathlon
- Ultimate
- Volleyball
- Water Polo
For more options, go to Purdue’s Athletics Page: https://www.purdue.edu/home/athletics/
Clubs
All of Purdue’s clubs and organizations can be found on this website: https://boilerlink.purdue.edu/organizations
Tips:
- Try filtering by category on the left-hand side of the page.
- If you want to learn more information on the club, try looking up “Purdue University (club name)” online. Most clubs will have an Instagram or other social media with pictures!
Starting a New Club
If you didn’t find your ideal activity on the club list, you can start a club! This process is simple and allows anyone to share their passions.
To start a club:
- You must have a minimum of 5 members.
- Among these members, there must be at least one president and treasurer position. These officers must have completed at least 12 credit hours at Purdue.
- The club name must not start with the words “Purdue” or “Purdue University.”
- A full-time Purdue University faculty/staff member at your campus must serve as the primary advisor.
- The club must complete a complete, written, and signed constitution.
- The founder(s) of the club must complete New Student Organization Training with the Student Activities and Organizations office.
- Once the above steps are completed, complete the online Student Organization Registration on the BoilerLink website.
To find additional information about club expectations and recruitment, go to: https://www.purdue.edu/sao/resources/start.html
Cultural Resource Centers
Purdue offers many Cultural Centers for personal, professional, and cultural development on campus. They not only offer academic resources but additionally provide support for the students in the community. Purdue’s diversity and inclusion can be experienced through these groups.
To learn more information on the different groups Purdue offers, go to: https://www.purdue.edu/diversity-inclusion/about-us/departments.html
Explore West Lafayette
Nature
- Celery Bog Nature Area- A 195 acre wetland perfect for birdwatching and hiking.
- Tippecanoe County Amphitheater- Scenic views of the Wabash River make it a great place for a peaceful stroll.
- Haefer Park- Enjoy trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful setting for both activities and relaxation.
- West Lafayette Trails- A system of walking and biking trails, some being along the Wabash River.
- Coyote Crossing Golf Course- A public golf course with a challenging layout.
Events and Festivals
- Purdue Performances- Attend performances ranging from Broadway shows to concerts and dances.
- Wabash Riverfest- West Lafayette celebrates the Wabash River with activities like boat races, live music, and food vendors.
- Purdue Homecoming- Partake in the Purdue Homecoming through the parade, tailgating, and football game. Boiler Up!
Stores and Restaurants
- Purdue Bookstore- The hub for all Purdue merchandise such as attire, bags, and decorations. They also have a section for stationary and textbooks, making it a popular destination for students at the beginning of each semester.
- Vons- A local bookstore with every trinket, decoration, and game you can think of. Oh, and they have a library too!
- Triple XXX- An nostalgic-style diner that serves American cuisine and milkshakes. Try their famous root beer, as featured on Diners Drive-ins and Drives.
- Greyhouse Coffee- Has delicious coffee, crepes, and brunch foods. Can be a great study spot for your exams.
