Diversity is on grand display and you will meet people from all over the world. While eavesdropping I could hear conversations ranging from the team's hockey score and where to eat, to dark matter and theoretical physics. People are super smart but know how to relax and have fun. Everyone from all walks of life seem to fit in seamlessly.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Definitely visit. For me it was a long way coming from NC, but you can only get so much from online and reading sites like these. I was pretty sure I wanted to go to Cornell before visiting, but it wasn't my first choice. After visiting it moved right to the top - and it wasn't even close. Also, while visiting, don't just do the info session and tour. Line up an appointment with a professor or dean in your major. Come prepared with questions so you're not wasting their time. I did this and it really helped me when I was crafting my supplemental essay on my application. I was able to name names and locations. The admissions committee can tell when you've been on campus and really investigated versus just skimming a few websites and writing a generic response. It's worth the time and effort - so go to Ithaca as soon as possible.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
Everything I have heard suggests it will be tough and time management will be a necessary skill. But in the end it will be worth it.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
The dorms I saw were all average and some were pretty dated and small, but having not lived there yet, I can't really offer more than that.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
The food was good. I ate at one small cafe and one large dining hall. Both had healthy choices and junk food and they tasted fine. I can see where it might get repetitive after a while and I'll want to venture to a real restaurant on occasion. Coming from the south I am seriously going to miss Chick-fil-A because Ithaca doesn't have any.
Diversity is on grand display and you will meet people from all over the world. While eavesdropping I could hear conversations ranging from the team's hockey score and where to eat, to dark matter and theoretical physics. People are super smart but know how to relax and have fun. Everyone from all walks of life seem to fit in seamlessly.
Definitely visit. For me it was a long way coming from NC, but you can only get so much from online and reading sites like these. I was pretty sure I wanted to go to Cornell before visiting, but it wasn't my first choice. After visiting it moved right to the top - and it wasn't even close. Also, while visiting, don't just do the info session and tour. Line up an appointment with a professor or dean in your major. Come prepared with questions so you're not wasting their time. I did this and it really helped me when I was crafting my supplemental essay on my application. I was able to name names and locations. The admissions committee can tell when you've been on campus and really investigated versus just skimming a few websites and writing a generic response. It's worth the time and effort - so go to Ithaca as soon as possible.
Everything I have heard suggests it will be tough and time management will be a necessary skill. But in the end it will be worth it.
The dorms I saw were all average and some were pretty dated and small, but having not lived there yet, I can't really offer more than that.
The food was good. I ate at one small cafe and one large dining hall. Both had healthy choices and junk food and they tasted fine. I can see where it might get repetitive after a while and I'll want to venture to a real restaurant on occasion. Coming from the south I am seriously going to miss Chick-fil-A because Ithaca doesn't have any.