Jack Kurfman
February 24, 2016
By Emma Alexander, Honors Communications Intern
Our student spotlight this week is Jack Kurfman, a sophomore Honors student from Chesterton, Indiana. Jack is currently studying Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics with Computer Science. After receiving his Bachelor’s degrees, he aspires to attend graduate school to obtain a PhD in mathematics and, one day, become a math professor. Jack is clearly very passionate about mathematics and would no doubt exude that passion in a classroom of his own.
When asked why he chose Purdue, Jack explained that is was a unique combination of location, affordability, and a prestigious engineering program that led him to West Lafayette. Additionally, both of his parents are Purdue graduates, and he says, “I've gone Black and Gold my whole life.”
On campus, Jack holds many leadership positions in the engineering, residence halls, and honors communities. He is the Composite Chair in Pi Tau Sigma (the Mechanical Engineering honor society), the treasurer of Third Street Suites' Apollonian Club, as well as a Peer Mentor for ENGR 142 (the Honors section of First Year Engineering). In addition, he says, “I try to take part in as many Honors Engineering events as they let me.”
Exhibiting such an eagerness to be involved in Honors event, I prompted Jack to share more of his Honors College Experience.
The Honors College has provided a way to meet many people that have the same academic mindset as I do. I've met many dedicated and driven people during my brief time at Purdue. But being part of the Honors College at Purdue does not isolate people from those who are not in the Honors College. With the exception of a few Honors credit hours, my schedule is nearly identical to other Mechanical Engineers. I enjoyed meeting new people during my stay in Shreve [Residence Hall] freshman year, and I enjoy seeing were all of their majors take them throughout their time at Purdue. I, myself, have benefited the most by giving back to the Honors College; watching new students come into First Year Engineering with uncertainty, and helping to guide them towards the discipline that suits them best.
Jack has clearly had a very positive experience in the Honors College, and as someone who not only lived with him in Shreve, but has also shared several classes with him, I am quite confident in saying that Jack has great things ahead of him. A passionate, driven individual willing and eager to contribute positively to the Honors and campus community on a daily basis, Jack more than earns his place among our other exceptional, spotlighted students.
