Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City
Are you planning an internship or similar experience in Indianapolis this summer? Are you ready to make the most of your summer in the city? Join us for Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City, a summer program designed to enhance your professional journey. Over the course of 6 weeks, you’ll engage in evening sessions focused on professional development, networking, and exploring the Circle City! Connect with Purdue alumni, industry professionals, and other Purdue interns while exploring the vibrant opportunities Indianapolis has to offer. Whether you’re looking to build your skills, gain insights from industry, or discover some great spots in the city, this program is your gateway to a transformative summer experience.
When you participate in Indy Amplified, you choose one of two tracks: the Community track or the Technology track. The Community track is focused on building community with your cohort, exploring Indianapolis culture and fostering a sense of belonging and wellness. The Technology track is geared towards students looking to upskill in areas related to technology and computing, as well as learn more about the local tech ecosystem in Indianapolis. Of the 6 events in Indy Amplified, 4 will take place as a whole group (including both tracks), and two will take place as separate tracks.
Participants in Indy Amplified will build the following competencies:
- Professional skill development: Enhance your technical and soft skills through targeted workshops and training.
- Networking: Build a professional network by connecting with Purdue alumni, industry professionals, and other Purdue students.
- Learn about Indy: Learn about the local industry landscape and opportunities available in the city.
- Career readiness: Develop a deeper understanding of the professional world and what it takes to succeed, as well as prepare for future career opportunities with confidence.
This program is funded by the Office of Experiential Education, Purdue Computes and Purdue For Life Foundation.
Applications
Applications for Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City 2026 will open in late January!
FAQ
Further questions about Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City? Contact Program Coordinators Katie Nelson at nelso750@purdue.edu, or Kate Caward at kcaward@purdue.edu.
Who is eligible to participate?
Undergraduate Purdue University students (includes both West Lafayette and Indianapolis locations) who are planning to participate in an experiential education opportunity over the summer (internship, co-op, research, clinicals, etc.) and not graduating in May are eligible for Indy Amplified. You do not need to have your opportunity secured when you apply, but you must have it confirmed by the time the program begins on June 2.
Do I have to pick a track, or can I do both?
As a part of the application, you are required to select your preferred track.
What is the application timeline?
Applications will open in late January with a submission deadline of April 15.
How should I prepare for the application?
To apply to participate in Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City, you must complete the application form. Please have the following prepared ahead of time:
- your resume to upload
- a short essay from the following prompt: In 300 words or less, tell us what interests you in the Indy Amplified program and your preferred track. Explain what you hope to contribute to the Indy Amplified cohort and what you hope to gain from participation.
- and one reference (professor, supervisor, mentor, etc.) who will complete a recommendation form (automatically sent to them) after your application is submitted.
What types of events will I participate in? When do they take place?
Events will typically take place on Tuesday nights from the beginning of June to mid-July from around 6:00-8:00 PM, unless otherwise specified.
Events include combining great food with exciting experiences! We’ll mix things up with alumni panels, visits to top companies, and adventures around Indianapolis—think iconic spots like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and some of the city’s best dining destinations.
What are the expectations for participants?
Participants must secure a summer experience/position before the program starts on June 2 and report this position through an online form. Attendance at all six events is required, unless advanced approval is obtained from the program coordinator(s). Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from events. Note: Most of the events will take place within downtown Indianapolis, where there are options for public transportation (bus, bikeshare, etc.). Carpooling is also encouraged among participants.
Is there a cost associated?
No, there are no costs associated with the Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City program other than the cost of gas to drive to events. Note: Most of the events will take place within downtown Indianapolis, where there are options for public transportation (bus, bikeshare, etc.). Carpooling is also encouraged among participants.
Will I receive credit?
No, this program is not a for-credit experience, but rather a program to enhance your professional experience in Indianapolis over the summer. There is an opportunity to earn a certificate upon completion.
Do I need to live on campus to participate?
No, you are not required to live on campus in Indianapolis to participate in Indy Amplified: Summer in the Circle City. However, if you are interested in student housing in Indianapolis, please visit the Summer Intern Housing page.
Do you recommend any scholarships for my summer experience?
Please check out these opportunities to see if they are the right fit for your circumstance: