Isabella Riano

Meet Isabella

Isabella, a New York native graduating in 2025, is deeply embedded in campus life through her many campus groups and clubs. Within the College of Arts and Sciences, she’s found the perfect fit for her academic journey, transitioning from a government major to discovering a passion for American Studies as she pursues her future in immigration law. 

What clubs/activities are you involved with on campus?

I am a member of Salsa Pa’lante, PAD (Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity), Christian Union, Cornell Minds Matter, CLAP (Cornell Latinx Association of Pre-Laws), and I’m a Cornell Tradition Fellow.

Why is the College of Arts & Sciences a great fit for you?

I am very grateful to be a part of the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S). I entered Cornell as a Government major, but as I took more and more classes, I realized American Studies was the major for me. A&S has enabled me to take different classes for my wide array of interests and, in doing so, has given me a better idea of what I hope to pursue after graduation. I was even able to take a very interesting one-credit film class last semester!

What is one piece of advice or something you wish you knew when applying?

One piece of advice I wish I knew when I was applying was to not place as much pressure on myself as I did. I applied to 13 schools and stressed myself a lot as I applied for each one. I recommend just trying your best and keeping yourself as organized as you can. Start the process as early as you can. Take advantage of the essay portion to let your voice be heard. Believe in yourself. You will end up where you belong.

How did you find your friends and community at Cornell?

I found most of my friends and community through my classes and clubs at Cornell. I met my first group of friends through Cornell’s POST (Pre-Orientation Service Trip) Program the summer before my freshman year. This week-long program allowed me to engage in service opportunities as I met other incoming freshmen. This past summer, I was a leader for this program and watched as a new set of freshmen became the best of friends as they learned more about Cornell and the Ithaca community.

Where is your go-to place to eat on campus?

I love eating on the slope with my friends! My favorite things to order on campus are the burrito from Terrace and a fruit smoothie from Crossings Cafe.
 

Hometown

Bay Shore, Long Island, New York

Graduation Year

2025

College/School

  • College of Arts & Sciences

Majors

  • American Studies

Minors

  • Law & Society
  • Latinx Studies

Pull Quote

Take advantage of the essay portion to let your voice be heard. Believe in yourself. You will end up where you belong.

What is your favorite class so far?

My favorite class so far is (Im)migration and (Im)migrants: Then and Now. I aspire to specialize in immigration law, and this class was a great introduction to understanding why many migrate and the country’s current immigration system.

Tell us about your favorite thing to do in Ithaca.

I absolutely love watching the sunset on Libe Slope. When I walk back from my classes, I always try to pass the slope and see the beautiful sky filled with every color you can imagine. It is a very relaxing view I try my best to always take advantage of.

Tell us about your favorite Cornell memory.

My favorite Cornell memory has to be performing with my salsa dance group last semester. We worked very hard during practice to perfect our dance, and it was great to finally perform it and share this exciting memory with my friends. Dance continues to inspire me in school as it has become a great stress reliever and a way for me to express myself. Last semester, I became a teacher’s assistant for a salsa dance class with other college students, which was an amazing experience as I got to share my passion with others.

What is your plan after graduation?

I aspire to go to law school in New York City or Washington D.C. after I graduate. I hope to pursue immigration, international, and/or criminal law.

Tell us about your favorite place to study.

My favorite place to study is Olin Library. I tend to meet up with my friends here to study for upcoming tests and projects while enjoying our favorite snacks and drinks from Libe Cafe located right in the library.