Meet Daniel
As a Public Policy major at the Brooks School, Daniel is driven by a desire to use his education to impact the world positively. Support across campus, from the Career Exploration Center to the Veteran Services Team, has been invaluable, providing mentorship, career preparation, and a seamless transition from military service to academia. Daniel feels he’s found a home at Cornell that champions community and personal growth.
What clubs/activities are you involved with on campus?
I am a member of the Cornell Undergraduate Veterans Association, Veterans Social Club, Outing Club, and I plan to play Club Lacrosse.
What is your favorite thing about Cornell?
Undoubtedly, I can say that it’s the commitment to excellence. From the stunning campus grounds and the beautiful architecture to the motivation and intellectual abilities of the faculty and my fellow students, you can’t help but be inspired. You’re immediately immersed into an ecosystem where you can improve and grow amongst like-minded individuals — academically, intellectually, and interpersonally. I can’t stress enough the value behind an environment like Cornell, where everyone around you is committed to helping others and personal development is paramount. It’s a place that constantly encourages you to push your boundaries and strive for excellence.
Why is the Cornell Brooks School of Public Policy a great fit for you?
Brooks grants its students a truly unique opportunity to be part of a small, inclusive community inside a large institution. You’re a student of both Brooks and Cornell. Because of that, you can capitalize on the immense number of resources while being supported by the incredible and dedicated Brooks staff and faculty during your academic and professional journey. I truly feel like there is no better place for me.
What is your academic passion?
The Public Policy curriculum perfectly intersects the social sciences, like economics, law, and management — all areas that deeply interest me. Studying this major at Cornell has allowed me to explore these disciplines holistically and simultaneously. Not only have I improved my understanding of these areas, but I’ve learned to apply them practically and view them through a policymaking lens. What I like most about studying Public Policy at Cornell is the emphasis on real-world impact. The curriculum encourages us to focus on areas of improvement and change toward a future of social equity. For instance, we’ve had opportunities to work on projects related to important societal issues like access to education and income equality. I find this experience incredibly fulfilling, and it has only reinforced my belief that effective policy is an exceptionally powerful tool.
What are your go-to campus resources?
The Student Services Suite always keeps its door open, and I frequently take advantage of that. Being able to walk in and be greeted with a smile and familiar faces is a huge boost, and they are always equipped with the answers to your questions and willing to connect you with other students, faculty, and researchers. Inside Martha Van Rensselaer Hall is the Career Exploration Center, which has handouts for preparing for any career you are interested in. They’ve helped me improve my resume and cover letter, prepare for interviews, and find internship opportunities. The value of mentorship cannot be understated, and I appreciate how Brooks addresses this very early into your journey, assigning you a mentor during orientation. My mentor, Professor Douglas Kriner, has been instrumental to my success thus far through his unfettered and dedicated support. The Veteran Services Team is wholly dedicated to helping military veterans ensure their transition from service to Cornell is seamless, and I can say that I truly value that.
What is one piece of advice or something you wish you knew when you were applying?
My advice is to consider the skills and perspectives that your uniquely individual background and story have given you. Don’t be afraid to identify what value you can bring to Cornell. Present it confidently and proudly.
Hometown
Norwalk, ConnecticutGraduation Year
2026College/School
- Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy
Majors
- Public Policy
Minors
- Business
When you were applying, why did you choose Cornell?
I chose Cornell because of its rich and impressive history. Its reputation for academic excellence and groundbreaking research speaks for itself domestically and internationally. What truly stood out to me was Cornell’s unparalleled commitment to our military throughout its history, which resonated with me deeply.
The founding principle of “… any person … any study” is embodied and a lived experience. Cornell offers a seemingly endless array of innovative and comprehensive areas of study, allowing me to explore my passions without limitations. The diversity of the student body builds upon this, as everyone comes from different walks of life together to create an enhanced learning environment enriched by diverse perspectives.
Where is your go-to place to eat on campus and what is your favorite thing to order?
Bus Stop Bagels is great and centrally located, making it easily accessible on campus. I recognize I’m totally biased — being from New England, I love bagels, but it’s nice to have a taste of home on campus, and above all, the food is delicious. I recommend ordering the classic Route 81!
Tell us about your favorite thing to do in Ithaca.
Ithaca has no shortage of outdoor activities. Take a hike along the innumerable gorges and waterfalls — Robert H. Treman State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, and Buttermilk Falls are some of my favorites. We’re lucky to have a huge dog park nearby, and you can frequently find me there with my dog, Blue.
What is your favorite class so far and why?
PUBPOL 3764: Intellectual Property Law with Professor Daniel Manne. The way he teaches is conducive to learning, and his passion and knowledge of the subject continually shine through in lectures. We dissect the nuances of key Supreme Court cases that have shaped business and innovation. This deep analysis and critical thinking level allows you to improve your analytical skills significantly. You get to really learn about and explore the intentions behind these complex landmark legal decisions and see how contemporary laws and policies influence them. Plus, Professor Manne makes the complex IP concepts easy to understand and engaging.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to continue my education and pursue a Master of Business Administration. Upon completion, I plan to enter the world of banking and finance, leveraging my skills and background in operating within complex and high-pressure environments. I’m excited about the prospect of being a vital part of an institution that tackles significant projects and matters of great importance.
In addition to my interest in finance, I have a strong passion for civil service. I hope to use my policy education to positively impact the world, and I want to be a driving force for change toward a better future.
Tell us about your favorite place to study.
Temple of Zeus inside Goldwin Smith Hall is my favorite cafe. The environment has a perfectly balanced noise level, ample tables and chairs, and nearby chargers for your electronic devices. I think this is the best place to really lock in and concentrate comfortably while being in a space where you can get food and coffee and see your friends.
Tell us about your favorite spot on campus or in Ithaca.
Look no further than the Carl A. Kroch Library and its rare manuscript collections. They have endless miles of rare and unique items inside the vault, and the staff is always willing to take you on tour and show you some of the items that Cornell has in possession. There, you can find a copy of the Gettysburg Address, original Beethoven and Mozart compositions, clay tablets inscribed with cuneiform text, and much more.