Sawandi D.
As a Biology major, I enjoy being able to explore social, ethical, and policy-oriented aspects of science. Being on the pre-med track doesn't limit or restrict us to a specific path; instead, we have the luxury of taking classes that we genuinely enjoy and even discover passions throughout the years.
The OUB has been a great resource for me since my first year at Cornell. They have never been hesitant to lend a helping hand and have aided me in planning each and every little detail during my time as an undergraduate, from planning classes a year in advance to envisioning what my future steps entail.
I wish that I had known to begin connecting with professors and applying to pre-undergrad programs at Cornell. After learning about these upon my acceptance, I thought that it would've been great to be able to get a sneak peek of what my educational life would be like here before entering. This can definitely come to one's advantage and would make for effective networking.
As a junior, I still have the same friend group that I met during my first week here at Cornell. I have to say I think I was lucky enough to find people who really understood me and enjoyed my company so quickly. I also came into this school with two very close friends whom I live with today. While all these interactions from first-year are unique stories, one of my favorites is how I met one of my best friends standing in line to get lunch at Morrison.
I chose Cornell as I was excited to experience rigor at such an advanced level, surrounded by other intellectual minds. Additionally, I fell in love with the location and the nature that I was not normally used to, being from the city.
My favorite place to grab lunch from is Mac's! I always get the spinach wrap with chicken cutlet, red peppers, American cheese, onions, banana peppers, sauce, and bacon bits. It also comes with chips/carrots and a pickle and is absolutely delicious. It never gets old!
My favorite thing to do in Ithaca is go to the dams and waterfalls on a sunny day. There is so much to do here and so much nature to appreciate. The water can be so refreshing when the temperature gets high, and it is overall just so breathtaking.
One of my favorite Cornell memories is sledding after Ithaca was hit by a snowstorm. This was spontaneous, and my friends and I thought we should seize the opportunity of being snowed in, despite it being close to midnight. This ended up being extremely fun and something I will never forget.
CALS is a great fit for me because its science-tailored curriculum allows me to stay on track with my interests and connect with others who share the same interests as me. I am always being notified of new relevant events and information that will help me with my future career.
My family has always been my biggest motivation and driver to be successful in life. They have all sacrificed so much for me to be here and have shown me what it means to never give up, no matter what gets in the way. They have been such a great support system during my time here and never fail to lift up my spirits after having a bad day.
My favorite class that I have taken so far at Cornell has been BIONB 3920 Drugs and the Brain. This class was incredibly captivating, and it allowed me to further explore my curiosity in neuroscience. We were able to learn about how various drugs affect neural pathways and mastered the basics of pharmacology.
The balance of class academics and leisurely activity really makes for a great time at Cornell. Whether it's the random movie nights being held on the Arts Quad, food vendors on West Campus, or Slope Day at the end of the year, there is always something to look forward to at the end of a swamped semester.
After graduation, I plan to attend Medical School and pursue my dreams of becoming a doctor.
My favorite place to study is Mann Library. There is a place for everyone to work there, whether you want to talk with friends on the first floor, have different seating on the second floor, or really lock in for an upcoming exam on the third floor. There are also always fun tabling events happening in the lobby, and Mann cafe's coffee and food items put the cherry on top.
Cornell Elderly Partnership (member), CALS Ambassadors Program (ambassador), Project Level the Field Cornell Chapter (mentor), Cornell Healthcare Review (writer), Cornell Medical Brigade Club (e-board member: social media chair), InSIGHT at Cornell (e-board member: event coordinator).
My favorite thing about Cornell is the wide range of areas to relax and study. While having a large campus may be daunting at first, I have come to find joy in discovering new spots and scenic areas throughout all seasons.
My favorite spot in Ithaca is Frosty Cow, about 20 minutes away from campus. It is a small ice cream parlor with amazing sunset views and delicious, affordable ice cream. There are also cows that come out during the day that are so adorable!
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