Armed with critical thinking skills, history grad looks forward to his future

"I'm interested in teaching and also the legal field. Purdue Calumet has prepared me to pursue both those fields in graduate school. Plus, I have made connections and friendships."

For a guy who planned to attend college elsewhere four years ago, Michael Duffy couldn't be happier with his back-up decision.

The Dyer resident, who plans to embark on graduate and law school next fall, graduated with honors from Purdue University Calumet, May 21, during the university's 40th Spring Commencement Exercises at the Radisson Star Plaza Theatre. Selected to represent the Class of 2006, Duffy offered the traditional response on behalf of his graduating peers.

A history major, the 22-year-old contends that a quality Purdue education goes beyond its trademark programs of engineering, technologies, nursing, business/management and education.

"I think in terms of liberal arts, Purdue Calumet doesn't get the respect it deserves," he said. "The faculty here with their background-teaching and life experiences-research and the books they've written, are in the same league as faculty at other elite schools. They also take an interest in their students. There's a homey feel here."

Beyond respect for his instructors, Duffy says he's leaving Purdue Calumet with another valuable asset.

"The classes here challenge you to think critically," he said. "They also provide you opportunities to gain insight from different people with different opinions. I think I've definitely sharpened my critical thinking skills."

Keep in mind this is someone who was signed, sealed and delivered to attend an Illinois university until becoming disillusioned at the 11th hour.

"Things worked out for the better," he said. "I'm interested in teaching and also the legal field. Purdue Calumet has prepared me to pursue both those fields in graduate school. Plus, I have made connections and friendships. Overall, coming to Purdue Cal was a good decision."

Says Professor Saul Lerner, head of Purdue Calumet's Department of History and Political Science, "His preparation in both history and political science has given him very solid insights and background for a career in the law and an awareness of the importance of content, methods and principles that will be of great value for him in graduate school…He has impressed me with his awareness of issues relating to a compassionate concern for ethics in the performance of his duties and in his relationships with others."

Away from the classroom, Duffy has served as a Student Ambassador for the Office of Admissions, a mentor for the School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, and he has been active in Phi Alpha Theta history honor society. Off campus, he has been involved with various social causes through his church.

Asked to summarize the message of his Commencement remarks, he said he encouraged his classmates "not to settle for middle of the road success; aim high. Purdue Cal has prepared us well to pursue the professions we desire."