Carol Risk

B.S. 1972, M.S 1986
Retired, Pharmaceutical Industry

I looked at a couple of places to study chemistry and chose a large institution because I was shy and could disappear into the student body. But the whole atmosphere I encountered was something I didn’t know I was seeking, and it left many memories.

I entered Purdue not expecting to graduate. It would be too hard. But one course at a time, I just kept going and discovered a resilience and toughness that I didn’t know I had. I am very proud of my degree and the fact that persevered when others didn’t.

I had a friend in a chemistry lab that helped me get a part-time job in a lab in the Entomology Dept. which led to developing skills and self-confidence. I found my calling in Fred Lytle’s analytical chemistry class my junior year. I discovered that I just loved instrumentation and measuring things.

Purdue is a serious tough place where not everyone who is netted will graduate. But if you do, you will have a sense of pride knowing you accomplished something not everyone could do.