Finding community at Cornell takes time, and that is okay. Whether it comes from friendships, student organizations, academic support systems, or quiet moments alone, your version of community should be whatever helps you feel welcomed here. As a QuestBridge student, you belong here, and with time, Cornell can truly start to feel like home.

Making Connections  

One of the ways I began to feel more connected to Cornell was by letting myself enjoy life outside of academics. For me, that looks like spending time with friends. This can mean grabbing food on or off campus, watching movies together, or simply sitting around talking after a long day of classes. Those low-pressure moments helped me realize that community is built by just showing up and spending time with people.

I also found that saying yes to things, even when I felt nervous, made a huge difference. Attending student organization events and campus activities pushed me outside my comfort zone, but they introduced me to people who eventually became my support system. As an introverted person, this was not always easy, but it was worth it.

If I feel overwhelmed, one of my favorite ways to decompress is by going on walks around campus. Cornell has beautiful scenery, and taking the time to step outside, breathe fresh air, and move my body helps me reset mentally.

Advice for New QuestBridge Cornell Students 

My biggest piece of advice is to step outside your comfort zone, even when it feels intimidating. I am naturally introverted, and at first it was difficult for me to put myself out there or attend campus events. Once I did, I was able to find my community at Cornell and make friends who truly made campus feel like home. I highly recommend attending events hosted by the Cornell QuestBridge Chapter because they are a great way to meet people who understand your personal experiences.

It is also important to take advantage of the academic resources Cornell offers. You do not have to struggle through assignments on your own when there are Academic Excellence Workshops, the Learning Strategies Center, and professors’ office hours available to support you. Reaching out for help is not a weakness; it is part of building a strong foundation at Cornell.

Finally, try to connect with upperclassmen in your major. They have been through the same classes, exams, and stress and can offer advice on everything from study strategies to which clubs you should join. Building a support system both socially and academically was one of the most important factors in my success at Cornell.