My D is a super senior Chem E at Purdue. Here are a couple of thoughts I have. Purdue feels very much like a STEM school. Compared to other B1G schools engineering is part of it’s pride and it’s identity. The engineering campus is the middle of campus at Purdue. A large percentage of Purdue students are either engineering majors or other STEM majors. At other universities engineering can seem a smaller part of the overall university and are often separated from the main campus. This is not good or bad and doesn’t say a thing about the quality of the programs but it is something you notice.
You are accepted into First Year Engineering and not into a specific major. Chem E has been an impacted major meaning there are a limited number of slots available so they can be competitive. It is a program that works for them and I don’t believe it’s either superior or inferior to other engineering paths.
Good luck in your decision. I guess a final note. My D liked Purdue because she found the people she met friendly. After 5 years (she did a 5 term co-op) she still feels that way.