Cornell University Top Questions

I think that it's important to ask a variety of students about the college experience. When you go on a tour of a university the tour guide will most likely be trying to sell you the school. Other students may be more likely to give you uncensored responses to the questions that matter the most to you. It's also nice to hear a variety of answers so that you can form your own opinion. Once you decide on a school I think that the most important thing to do is to take advantage of as much as you can. Don't be afraid to talk to professors - they are there to help. Sports teams and clubs are great ways to make friends and take a break from academic commitments. You only get the college experience once, enjoy it.

If you know what you want to do or what major you want then research the schools that are known for that. However, it is most certainly alright to be undecided- many people do change their majors. If you don't know, then make sure you apply to schools where there are many areas of study that are prestigious for that institution. Also, it's important to look at what extracurricular activites are there- the more variety and expecially those you can interact with like-people, can open doors for you. Networking is crucial, it will help you get you what you want, be it jobs or internships, help with school work and advice on courses and things around campus. Not sure what your interests are? Neither was I, so as a first year student try things out and step out of your comfort zone- it's OK to figure things out as you go, your interests may change. Don't spread yourself too thin though, it is wise to stick to at least one thing where you can take on a leaderhip role- it helps with applications, interviews, and etc. so you can provide insight and showcase that passion.

Location is crucial. Be near your potential job placements. Go to where you will thrive, not necessarily the best school. Discouraged, depressed students are plenty in Ivy Leagues. People lose steam when put into a competitive environment. Pick whats best for you, not whats best for your resume.

College is a great time to find out what's important to you and set down the priorities that will guide your decisions for the rest of your life. While grades are important, so are making friends and maintaining relationships. It's all about finding a good balance. What is really important is that you choose a school where you can feel comfortable, but also have opportunity to grow. During the application process, don't be afraid to apply to schools you might not get into or be able to afford. As someone receiving a great deal of financial aid, I understand that cost becomes a big part of the decision process. However, I stongly recommend that you consider value instead of cost. Although I realize that I will be in debt for some time after graduation, I still feel like it's worth it. I'm making an investment in myself, so that I will be able to do what I love and make a living. My happiness is worth whatever Cornell wants to charge me.

Look at and think about the campus and the surrounding area and make sure you can envision yourself living there.

have fun

Want to learn.

I think that people tend to limit themselves when choosing a college by what they want, and fail to consider where they want to be when they graduate. I turned out to be very lucky with how things worked out for me at Cornell, but I think that it probably does not work out so well for others. I grew up so much during my time there but did not fully consider how the campus would shape me: my hobbies, my beliefs, my feelings about the environment, and mostly, my ability to interact socially with so many different people. I would encourage students looking at colleges to avoid finding what would make them comfortable, and encourage them to pick a place that will not only challenge them academically, but socially and emotionally as well. If you are from Texas, don't be afraid to go to a liberal school in the Northeast. If you are from Vermont, don't be afraid to check out a school in the south. Character is shaped by adversity, and your character will be strongest if it is constantly challeged through new experiences. Ultimately, do everything in your power to constantly gain perspective through experience.

College application should be all about finding the right program in the right location. Academics are of the upmost importance, but once students have found the colleges and universites that boast the best programs in a particular field, it is important to consider the student's preferences. Campus size, campus location, class size, diversity, and extra-curricular activities/campus life should all be considered with as much seriousness as academics. Students applying to college should not apply to the "best" programs, they should apply to the programs that best fit their intellectual and emotional needs. Once accepted, visit. Once enrolled, take full advantage of the campus and the world that extends beyond it. Do not stay in one department: explore the variety of classes offered in your elective time. Do not stay in one place: explore extracurricular activities, the odd corners of campus, the surrounding city. It can be difficult to get comfortable, but again, envrionmental and emotional satisfaction are just as important as academic success. One can't exist without the other.

In terms of finding the right college, visiting the school is KEY. I prejudged Cornell and felt that I didn't want to go there at all, but after visiting, I left really hoping that I would be accepted. A major is a good thing to have in mind when you apply, but it's not crucial, because students are able to explore different areas of and ultimately switch majors if they want. At school: it will be an adjustment. It's okay to feel uncomfortable and stressed in the beginning; every semester and every year gets better and is a learning process; school begins to feel like home more and more. Appreciate what you learn and strive to understand it; you'll end up seeing the value of the money you put into your education, and you'll graduate feeling a more knowledgeable, well-rounded individual. And of course: have fun and balance the work and play. Learn the surrounding area of your college!- it really helps the area feel like home.