Meet Armen
Entering Cornell undecided about which major to pursue, Armen has found the College of Arts & Sciences to be the perfect fit as it allows — and encourages — him to explore his broad interests. He sees the customizable Cornell experience as unique thanks to its myriad student organizations, majors, housing styles, and dining options. Armen's favorite Cornell memory? Catching a loose puck in front of a cheering hockey crowd.
What clubs/activities are you involved with on campus?
I am involved with the Armenian Student Organization, Club Swimming, Seal & Serpent Society, and the Arts & Sciences ambassadors. I’m also a resident advisor.
What is your favorite thing about Cornell?
My favorite thing about Cornell is the incredible diversity of the student body. Students here come from all over the country and world, and bring with them a wide array of different life experiences, cultural backgrounds, and identities that shape Cornell into a place where you can get involved with anything. I am thrilled to be able to meet people who share a lot in common with me and those who opened my eyes to new backgrounds as well.
Tell us about your favorite place to study.
My favorite place to study is seasonal. In the winter months, you'll find me in my building's lounges, because I like to socialize with friends during study breaks. In the warmer months, I prefer to go outside and enjoy Cornell's green spaces while studying.
Why is the College of Arts & Sciences a great fit for you?
The College of Arts & Sciences has been a great fit for me because of my broad interests, not just in my major. As someone who came in undecided between a few different majors, being able to — and being encouraged to — explore different subjects was vital for my own development as a student. While A&S has incredible breadth, it also boasts a depth that allows students to pursue senior-level and higher courses.
Where is your go-to place to eat on campus, and what is your favorite thing to order?
As a resident advisor in Toni Morrison Hall, I must say that Morrison Dining is my go-to dining hall on campus, and you'll often find me getting a stir fry or checking out what pizzas are being freshly made. Cornell's variety of dining options makes the question of "what is the best dining hall?" a matter of intense contention throughout campus. Despite not having any dietary restrictions myself, Cornell Dining does a great job of catering to those who do with a number of kosher, halal, and vegetarian/vegan options.
Hometown
Wayland, MAGraduation Year
2025College/School
- College of Arts & Sciences
Majors
- Physics
Tell us about your favorite Cornell memory.
While attending a hockey game at Lynah Rink, a puck came flying directly towards me after a faceoff. I caught the puck in mid-air in front of a cheering crowd. To top it off, Cornell won in a 3-0 shutout that night. The hockey games here are always a blast and are a must-see for any Cornell student.
What makes the Cornell experience unique?
The Cornell experience is truly unique due to its ability to be shaped by each student. With tons of student organizations, colleges/majors, social organizations and Greek life, and even a variety of housing areas, Cornell offers each student an individualized experience that can be customized. I am grateful to have the opportunity to shape my own experience, and I have learned many things in doing so. To me, this is what makes the Cornell experience stand out.
When you were applying, why did you choose Cornell?
I chose to attend Cornell because of the diversity of the student body and the breadth and depth of academic offerings. One of the major deciding factors for me was that I wasn't sure whether to study physics, math, or computer science, and I knew that at Cornell I would not be stuck no matter what I wanted to study. No matter what I ended up pursuing, I would be in a world-class department with incredible faculty. Also, the campus has an incredibly lively and natural feel to it, and I knew it would feel like home.
Tell us about your favorite spot on campus or in Ithaca.
My favorite spot on campus is the Physical Sciences Building. While I am slightly biased as a physics major, the atrium in PSB is a great place for studying and socializing, and Goldie's Cafe, which is right inside, offers great food and drinks as well.