Picture this: it’s May of your senior year and you have finally paid your deposit and committed to college (hopefully Cornell!). During those last few weeks of high school, it can feel like the end of a long journey, and that you have learned and done it all. But you are only starting the tumultuous yet rewarding journey of college. I spent my first year of college at a different institution before transferring to Cornell, and attending both universities brought its fair share of new experiences and challenges.

The moment finally arrived. My parents and I hopped out of our fully packed car, following the workers escorting us into a modernistic, chic-looking building.

Barbara McClintock. These two words were displayed on the entrance.  

On August 20th, Cornell Move-In Day, we opened the doors for the first time to the year-long home for my twin sister and I, who, at that point, were filled with emotions of excitement, fear, and worry for our long-awaited “college dorm experience”.  

Prior to graduation, every Cornell student is required to take two credits (two courses) worth of Physical Education classes. While this may seem like an inconvenient requirement to some, the PE requirement is actually very easy to complete and can be a lot of fun!

Ezra Cornell’s iconic phrase “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study” sets the ambiance of a culturally enriched, picturesque campus that wholeheartedly embodies its mission of supplying students with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Since my time here, I have discovered countless things to love about Cornell and its vibrant community. Where every day feels like an adventure, full of opportunities and unforgettable moments, Cornell is an unparalleled place.

Cornell prides itself on being an exemplary research institution, and rightfully so. Home to hundreds of laboratories that encompass a variety of subject matter, passion for the subject and drive towards research are the key elements that you will need to be a part of the labs here at Cornell.  

Have you watched too many movies and TV shows that have influenced your expectations of college and college life? Due to Hollywood’s exaggerated portrayal of college life, many students are overwhelmed when entering college. However, the college experience is often far different from all these myths and misconceptions floating around. 

Among many, here are some college myths debunked: 

When I committed to Cornell, I did so without ever setting foot on campus. However, upon arriving here, I quickly realized that Cornell was unlike any typical campus. Nestled on a hill and surrounded by nature and waterfalls, it offers a unique setting for exploration. During breaks and weekends, my urge to discover more of Ithaca and its surroundings only grew. In this guide, I will outline the various transportation options available to students for navigating both campus and the wider Ithaca area, enabling you to discover the beauty of this town.