Cornell University

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY, USA
Private
4 Year

Nicolas's Review

Review of Cornell University

from Miami, FL

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

There are hundreds of diverse classes for you to take. Since I'm in the College of Arts & Sciences, I have a lot of academic freedom in putting together a schedule. You can take run-of-the-mill classes like Calculus and Biology, but there are also lots of strange and exciting classes like Dinosaurs! and Alien Empire: Bizarre Biology of Bugs. The wide array of classes available mean you get to pick classes that you enjoy while at the same time filling degree requirements. Because you're taking classes you enjoy, you're much more motivated to learn!

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

The campus is beyond beautiful. There are nature trails aplenty to walk on if you're feeling the stress of school. There's a lake called Beebe Lake right in the center of campus with a beautiful, quiet trail around it. I've found that taking a walk around the lake after a stressful day of school makes me feel much better. Besides nature, the school is very easy to acclimate too. There are over 800 clubs so finding a niche for yourself is much easier than at a smaller liberal arts school. Cornell has a very accepting environment and people from all backgrounds are welcome here. I have never felt more at home at a school!

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

Cornell offers a lot of resources that many schools don't have. There are extensive research opportunities for both science majors and those in the humanities. The dining halls are FANTASTIC because they are all-you-care-to-eat and they're filled with delicious food. Tuition is a bit steep, but Cornell's financial aid is very good so people of all incomes can afford to come here! The only reason I don't give it 5 stars is because they do tend to nickel and dime you (you have to pay for laundry! ridiculous, I know).

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

Include very Cornell-specific things in your essay. When the admissions officers read your essays, they want to know that you've done your research and Cornell has opportunities that you could not get anywhere else. The essay is extremely important! I didn't have a perfect GPA or test scores but I was accepted because I wrote a great essay. Also, don't discourage yourself! Cornell may be an Ivy League school, but everyone has a chance of getting in. Once you do get here, here are some helpful tips: 1. Learn the bus schedules! You're going to want to take the bus once it starts snowing. 2. Bring lots of warm clothing. Seriously. 3. You probably don't need an unlimited meal plan so don't splurge on it because it is more expensive!

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Cornell is a very social environment. We have fraternities for people who wish to get involved with Greek life as well as over 800 student organizations for those looking for something new. If you enjoy socializing, this is the place for you! Cornell is also one of the top research universities in the world. If you want to get some undergraduate research on your resume, then Cornell would make it easier to do so! Plus, you'd be working with experts in their respective fields. Personally, I think Cornell is a school for everyone. If you're not a big party person, you'll still feel right at home in one of the many gorgeous libraries (like the A.D. White library, seriously, Google it because it's beautiful). Social butterflies would definitely fit in perfectly here. I believe Cornell is amazing for virtually anyone.