The Purdue Promise in Action: How Early College Experiences Help Students Plan with Confidence

Hina Moghul poses with her Purdue University certificate following a celebratory event recognizing her acceptance into Purdue University.

For many students and families, college can feel overwhelming—big campuses, unfamiliar expectations, and questions about cost, fit, and direction. At Purdue Polytechnic High Schools (PPHS), we believe students shouldn’t have to wait until graduation to begin understanding what college could look like for them.

That belief comes to life through PPHS’s partnership with Purdue University—and for student Hina Moghul, it made all the difference.

Experiencing College Before Graduation

Through PPHS, Hina had the opportunity to take a microeconomics class on the Purdue Indianapolis campus while still in high school. The experience gave her more than college credit—it gave her confidence. She learned how to navigate campus, manage her schedule, and communicate with professors. Just as importantly, she discovered that college classrooms weren’t as intimidating as she had imagined.

“My class was actually like 20 people. I expected it to be much bigger because, you know, college—but it wasn’t,” Hina shared. That realization mattered. Seeing herself succeed in a real college setting helped Hina understand that she belonged there—and that college was something she was prepared for.

Support That Extends Beyond the Classroom

Hina’s journey wasn’t shaped by coursework alone. Throughout the college planning process, PPHS counselors provided consistent guidance—sharing scholarship opportunities, supporting applications, and helping her think through options for life after graduation.

That support paid off when Hina was awarded Purdue’s Presidential Scholarship, significantly reducing the financial burden of college and reinforcing that Purdue was within reach. For students and families, this kind of guidance matters. College planning isn’t just about academics—it’s about navigating decisions, deadlines, and affordability. At PPHS, students aren’t left to figure that out on their own.

What the Purdue Promise Means at PPHS

Hina’s story reflects what PPHS calls The Purdue Promise: early college experiences, trusted guidance, and intentional pathways that help students move forward with confidence. Through its collaboration with Purdue University, PPHS ensures students benefit from:

  • Real college coursework and campus experiences

  • Ongoing college and scholarship guidance

  • Clear, structured pathways aligned to student interests

  • Support that helps college feel possible—not overwhelming

This partnership isn’t just about access. It’s about preparation, confidence, and helping students take meaningful next steps toward their future.

Our Approach. Their Next Step.

At PPHS, every student’s path looks different—but no student walks it alone. By combining hands-on learning, dedicated coaching, and strong university partnerships, PPHS helps students like Hina move from uncertainty to clarity, from curiosity to confidence.

Learn more about how PPHS partners with Purdue University to support students and families: www.pphs.purdue.edu/strategic-plan-2025-2028