Cornell University has a large campus that feels small and intimate. The resources provided to students are unparalleled, as there are research opportunities and classes that allow students to meet professors who are leaders in their fields of work. I consider myself lucky to call this place home, and I have met and been inspired by people from all over the world who are passionate and hardworking.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Make sure to truly assess who you are and what you want from your education before sending in your applications! In my experience I applied to 11 schools, and ended up realizing that I should have put quality over quantity. Narrow down your choices to a few schools, and in all of your applications, especially Cornell's, make sure you make yourself stand out. How are you different than all of the other prospective students? In your essays write about what you are passionate about - this will help you in the writing process and make you stand out to the reviewing committee.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
Cornell is challenging and the workload can get overwhelming at times, but there are tons of people that you can reach out to if you ever feel like you need help. Specifically, your academic advisor is a very helpful resource. I've gone to my advisor at times when I feel that I could use advice on scheduling, handling classes and work, and even working out what I want to do with my academic career in the next few years I attend Cornell. Also, although some classes may be hard, forming study groups helps tremendously!
Describe the dorm life at your college.
Dorm life is very social and supportive at Cornell. I have experienced hall mates become almost like family members as people in pods, in the same hall, or on the same floor will make a point to eat dinner together every night or go to social activities together. I highly suggest keeping your door open during the first few weeks. It is a great way to meet new people that pop in to say hello.
In my experience I have lived in Balch Hall, the all-women's residence hall on North Campus. It has a friendly atmosphere, is very clean, and is known for having large rooms!
Describe the food and dining at your college.
Cornell is known to have some of the best dining options. They always have a diverse spread of food in the dining halls. Unfortunately, I and those like me with food allergies seem to struggle with finding different things to eat. There is always the option to file with student disabilities, but I did not deem my allergies severe enough to do so. Unfortunately I now find myself eating the same things every day. If you have an allergy, I highly suggest talking to the chefs or filing with student disabilities! There is information that you can find online about how to do this.
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
There is always something fun going on around campus! Cornell is unique in that it is located around some fantastic hiking trails that lead you past gorges, waterfalls, and other gorgeous places that nature has to offer. There are also many clubs on campus for any interest, ranging from Dance Dance Revolution Club to the Cornell Astronomical Society. Finally, stay up to date on events happening in Ithaca Commons, because a short bus ride can take you to interact with local Ithaca community members at events like Apple Fest or Porch Fest!
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Although Cornell is expensive, the school is very accommodating when it comes to financial aid in most cases. Depending on your financial background, the school will do its best to help you attend. Unfortunately, you have to pay for laundry, a gym membership, and parking, among other things.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
For unusual traditions, see the 161 Things to do at Cornell! These include anything from climbing the 161 stairs to the top of McGraw Tower to throwing fish on the ice at the Cornell-Harvard mens hockey game! For an unusual location, check out the suspension bridge on campus. With a little exploring, there are tons of places that you will discover that are perfect for lounging around, studying, or eating!
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Students who are passionate and ready to learn! Also those who are looking to step out of their comfort zones and expand boundaries, experience new things, and test limits. Being brave will get you so many places!
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
There are over 1000 student organizations on campus, and although I am sure you've heard this many times already, there really are clubs for every interest! At ClubFest you will find hundreds of tables set up with people trying to get you to sign their email lists, and if you have even the slightest interest, I suggest signing up. The worst that will happen is that you will receive many emails from tons of clubs, but it may be worth it when one email catches your eye! Many of these clubs hold activities like skating at Lynah Rink or potlucks.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
Greek life is very dominant on campus, and there are a large number of diverse houses. Sororities and fraternities are always holding fundraisers or formals. Rush week in January is said to be an unforgettable experience!
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
I have never felt unsafe walking around campus. Cornell takes safety very seriously and sends out frequent emails from campus safety with reminders and updates. There are blue lights posted all around campus (it is said that you should always be able to see one blue light wherever you go on campus), and these lights give you access to emergency services or escorts if you ever feel unsafe. As with all places, walking with a buddy is always a good idea at night.
Cornell University has a large campus that feels small and intimate. The resources provided to students are unparalleled, as there are research opportunities and classes that allow students to meet professors who are leaders in their fields of work. I consider myself lucky to call this place home, and I have met and been inspired by people from all over the world who are passionate and hardworking.
Make sure to truly assess who you are and what you want from your education before sending in your applications! In my experience I applied to 11 schools, and ended up realizing that I should have put quality over quantity. Narrow down your choices to a few schools, and in all of your applications, especially Cornell's, make sure you make yourself stand out. How are you different than all of the other prospective students? In your essays write about what you are passionate about - this will help you in the writing process and make you stand out to the reviewing committee.
Cornell is challenging and the workload can get overwhelming at times, but there are tons of people that you can reach out to if you ever feel like you need help. Specifically, your academic advisor is a very helpful resource. I've gone to my advisor at times when I feel that I could use advice on scheduling, handling classes and work, and even working out what I want to do with my academic career in the next few years I attend Cornell. Also, although some classes may be hard, forming study groups helps tremendously!
Dorm life is very social and supportive at Cornell. I have experienced hall mates become almost like family members as people in pods, in the same hall, or on the same floor will make a point to eat dinner together every night or go to social activities together. I highly suggest keeping your door open during the first few weeks. It is a great way to meet new people that pop in to say hello. In my experience I have lived in Balch Hall, the all-women's residence hall on North Campus. It has a friendly atmosphere, is very clean, and is known for having large rooms!
Cornell is known to have some of the best dining options. They always have a diverse spread of food in the dining halls. Unfortunately, I and those like me with food allergies seem to struggle with finding different things to eat. There is always the option to file with student disabilities, but I did not deem my allergies severe enough to do so. Unfortunately I now find myself eating the same things every day. If you have an allergy, I highly suggest talking to the chefs or filing with student disabilities! There is information that you can find online about how to do this.
There is always something fun going on around campus! Cornell is unique in that it is located around some fantastic hiking trails that lead you past gorges, waterfalls, and other gorgeous places that nature has to offer. There are also many clubs on campus for any interest, ranging from Dance Dance Revolution Club to the Cornell Astronomical Society. Finally, stay up to date on events happening in Ithaca Commons, because a short bus ride can take you to interact with local Ithaca community members at events like Apple Fest or Porch Fest!
Although Cornell is expensive, the school is very accommodating when it comes to financial aid in most cases. Depending on your financial background, the school will do its best to help you attend. Unfortunately, you have to pay for laundry, a gym membership, and parking, among other things.
For unusual traditions, see the 161 Things to do at Cornell! These include anything from climbing the 161 stairs to the top of McGraw Tower to throwing fish on the ice at the Cornell-Harvard mens hockey game! For an unusual location, check out the suspension bridge on campus. With a little exploring, there are tons of places that you will discover that are perfect for lounging around, studying, or eating!
Students who are passionate and ready to learn! Also those who are looking to step out of their comfort zones and expand boundaries, experience new things, and test limits. Being brave will get you so many places!
There are over 1000 student organizations on campus, and although I am sure you've heard this many times already, there really are clubs for every interest! At ClubFest you will find hundreds of tables set up with people trying to get you to sign their email lists, and if you have even the slightest interest, I suggest signing up. The worst that will happen is that you will receive many emails from tons of clubs, but it may be worth it when one email catches your eye! Many of these clubs hold activities like skating at Lynah Rink or potlucks.
Greek life is very dominant on campus, and there are a large number of diverse houses. Sororities and fraternities are always holding fundraisers or formals. Rush week in January is said to be an unforgettable experience!
I have never felt unsafe walking around campus. Cornell takes safety very seriously and sends out frequent emails from campus safety with reminders and updates. There are blue lights posted all around campus (it is said that you should always be able to see one blue light wherever you go on campus), and these lights give you access to emergency services or escorts if you ever feel unsafe. As with all places, walking with a buddy is always a good idea at night.