Student Life
With over 90 student organizations, intramural sports and a welcoming campus community, PNW students have plenty of ways to get involved, make new friends and create lasting college memories.
PNW at Play
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
From Spanish Club to our car-building Society of Automotive Engineers groups to student government, there are organizations for every passion and interest at PNW. Join a professional society, volunteer in the community or even learn how to play a new sport.
Belonging at PNW
At PNW, you will find space to be your truest self. We offer a supportive community where you can express your individuality and thrive.
You’ll have the space to be authentic and genuine, both in the classroom and through extracurricular activities.
From intramurals to fitness centers, PNW provides a range of opportunities for students to meet friends, have fun and make progress.
Purdue University Northwest student-athletes compete in 22 sports, primarily in the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Whatever sport they play, our athletes display the determination and commitment that PNW is known for.
Students in PNW's Baja SAE Collegiate Design Competition design, build, test, promote and race an off-road vehicle in a competition with hundreds of schools across the country.
At PNW's Welcome Weeks, students enjoy free food, fun and giveaways on both the Hammond and Westville campuses.
From board-game showdowns to rec-league volleyball, PNW has fun offerings for every interest.
Students get fired up for PNW basketball season every year with Late Night Madness! The fun, free event gathers students for food, contests and giveaways.
The Boots and Bridles Club is a fun place for those who wish to learn about different aspects of the equine industry. Students can compete on teams in two disciplines, Western and English, with levels ranging from beginner to open/advance.
Bubble soccer at the Fitness and Recreation Center is a low-stress intramural option.
Jump right in—don’t be shy about all the fun, educational activities on campus. Take advantage of all the resources PNW has to offer.
Being involved on campus has plenty to offer and is a way to form many great relationships to take with you long past graduation.
If there’s something you want to get involved in, such as research, an internship or job, don’t be afraid to reach out. Make those connections and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
I loved how involved the campus is and the people. I’ve made connections with my classmates, professors and faculty.
I thoroughly enjoyed the people of PNW. Just getting to meet and connect with people and learn about everyone’s different backgrounds and experiences.
Picture Yourself at Purdue Northwest
College is more than lectures and book study. It’s about discovering who you are and what you’re good at doing. At Purdue University Northwest, you will earn a quality degree while gaining real-world experience that prepares you for lifelong success.
Have questions about student life at PNW? Contact our office!
Upcoming Events
Aug 12
Free Outdoor Movie Night: Project Hail MaryJoin the Office of Student Life for a free showing of Project Hail Mary (2026).
Aug 19
Founders & FundersJoin us for the Founders & Funders where we bring together entrepreneurs, investors, faculty, students and ecosystem partners to strengthen Northwest Indiana’s innovation economy.
Aug 24
First Day of School Photos – HammondJoin the Office of Student Life at the Bell Tower for First Day of School Pictures!
Aug 24
Dirty Soda Making – WestvilleJoin the Office of Student Life at the LSF Front Patio for dirty sodas!
Life @ PNW
Hope You’re Hungry
We have pizza, burgers, salads, soups, sandwiches and, of course, coffee. Explore dining options on both campuses.
Stay Healthy
Both PNW campuses have state-of-the-art fitness and recreation centers, with many ways to keep your body — and mind — in shape.
Student Life Highlights
From Late-Night Madness to Roaring Loud, PNW campus traditions bring our community together all year long.