Soccer team member Kayla Budish’s favorite memory at Purdue was beating #15 USC in front of 3200 Purdue fans in her first career game.
Originally from Brookfield, Wisconsin, Kayla has played her entire collegiate career as a Boilermaker and is working toward her master’s in Healthcare Communication. Kayla credits her success to Purdue and the people like you who support her on and off the field.
Your support as a John Purdue Club member directly impacts student-athletes like Kayla and makes a lasting difference. To get an inside look at who you support, the John Purdue Club is launching the Student-Athlete Spotlight Series to showcase our incredible athletes.
Q: What initially drew you to Purdue, and what ultimately made you decide that this was the place you wanted to continue your academic and athletic career?
A: The minute I stepped on Purdue’s campus, it felt like home. The combination of a world-class education and competing in the Big Ten was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. The people, facilities, and resources made this decision a no-brainer for me.
Q: What has been one of the most meaningful or memorable moments of your Purdue experience so far, either as a student-athlete or outside of athletics?
A: The most memorable moment at Purdue was the first game of my career when we beat #15 USC in front of over 3000 fans. The fans were amazing and it is still my favorite game to date. Having the support from students and the whole Purdue community was so special.
Q: How has being a student-athlete at Purdue helped shape you as a person, teammate, student, or leader?
A: Being a student-athlete at Purdue has shaped me in many ways. It has made me a better teammate, person, and leader. Purdue has pushed me to constantly better myself in all aspects of life. In addition, the people within Purdue athletics have taught me many life lessons that I will be able to use well beyond my playing days.
Q: How have the people around you—teammates, coaches, classmates, family, or supporters—impacted your experience at Purdue?
A: The people around me have made my Purdue experience so special. The Purdue community and support is next to none. It has made my experience so memorable. My teammates, coaches, and Purdue supporters have given me moments that I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life.
Q: Looking ahead, what are you most excited for during the rest of your time at Purdue, both athletically and personally?
A: I am excited to finish my Purdue career both as a student and an athlete. I will graduate with two degrees from Purdue and have lessons and experiences that will translate to the professional world. In addition, this soccer season has been the best one so far, and I am excited to wrap up my college career as a Boilermaker and see how far this team can go!
Rapid Fire Questions:
Q: Favorite Purdue tradition?
A: The Lance Dance at basketball games.
Q: Favorite place to eat in West Lafayette?
A: The Bryant.
Q: One word you would use to describe Purdue?
A: Loyalty.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a future Purdue student-athlete, what would it be?
A: Cherish the people and memories you make because it goes by so fast.
Thank you for supporting Kayla and her fellow Boilermakers through your John Purdue Club membership. Their success would not be possible without your support. Follow along and cheer on Purdue Soccer as they near the Big Ten Tournament. https://purduesports.com/sports/soccer