Meet Lana
After transitioning from an undecided major to Global and Public Health Sciences (GPHS), Lana found a perfect fit for her academic interests and aligned with her passion to become an oncologist, emphasizing disease prevention and healthcare ethics. Lana chose Cornell for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and scenic campus, and urges prospective students to explore all that Cornell has to offer, academically and socially.
What clubs/activities are you involved with on campus?
I am a research assistant in the Department of Molecular Medicine at the Vet School and part of the Caribbean Students' Association, Food Science Club, American Cancer Society, and Big Red Ambassadors.
What is your favorite thing about Cornell?
My favorite thing about Cornell is the people I've met. As an incoming student, forming lasting friends seemed challenging. However, my fear completely dissipated thanks to the amazing people I've met and formed relationships with. They have constantly offered me unwavering support and consistently seek to help my aspirations. Their presence has smoothed the path and made my college journey much better with their warmth and friendships.
Why is the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) a great fit for you?
When I initially applied to Cornell, I struggled with selecting the right major. Ultimately, I opted for the undecided major within the College of Arts and Sciences, which allowed me to delve into various academic interests. After two years, I realized that the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) better fit my passions. Within CALS, I discovered a learning environment prioritizing real-world experience and hands-on research, which perfectly fit my current academic pursuits. CALS's rigorous scientific requirements enable me to engage in various courses that align with my interests in hard sciences and my future career. CALS also offers unconventional classes, like an ice cream class. As someone who enjoys cooking and baking, I embrace these unique opportunities that add fun to my academic journey.
What is your academic passion?
My major, Global and Public Health Sciences (GPHS), perfectly aligns with my interests and passions, making it my ideal academic path. The GPHS program offers diverse courses that fulfill academic requirements and cater to my genuine passions, transcending the mere act of checking off boxes. This major has an array of intriguing classes, such as the Pharmaceutical Management & Policy course and the Communication, Environment, Science, and Health course. These courses blend global health and public health elements and pure scientific content with humanities, a combination that strongly resonates with my academic passions. As a prospective physician, this major gives me a unique healthcare perspective. It equips me with essential perspectives on medical ethics and places a significant emphasis on disease prevention and a critical consideration for underserved communities.
What is one piece of advice or something you wish you knew when applying?
I wish I'd known about the importance of exploring Cornell's diverse majors. Cornell's academic offerings are unique, including options not commonly found at other universities. In high school, I had set my sights on ultimately pursuing a biology major, convinced that it was the perfect major for someone on the pre-medicine path. However, Cornell presented a captivating array of majors. These included majors like Food Science, Global & Public Health Sciences, Viticulture & Enology, Hotel Administration, and the intriguing opportunity to create one's major through Interdisciplinary Studies. I am happy that I explored these interests as a Cornell student and ultimately found my perfect path.
How did you find your friends and community at Cornell?
I discovered my circle of friends and a sense of community at Cornell in many ways. My initial group of friends was created within the welcoming atmosphere of my residential hall. Everyone was so kind and welcoming, and during our first days during Orientation Week, we shared meals in the dining halls and ventured together to various orientation events. They have remained my closest friends, even as upper-level students, despite our different living arrangements. My major, GPHS, also introduced me to many friends within a tight-knit community. The bonds formed in this academic setting have bettered my college experience. Lastly, my various clubs and organizations have provided me with connections and friendships. These encounters have become a source of fun in my Cornell journey.
Hometown
Hyattsville, MarylandGraduation Year
2025College/School
- College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
Majors
- Global and Public Health Sciences
When you were applying, why did you choose Cornell?
Upon reviewing my acceptance letters, I found that choosing Cornell was easy. I wanted a university with a vibrant and inclusive community, a place where I could uncover a niche that resonated with my passions and forge enduring friendships. What truly set Cornell apart for me was its commitment to academic excellence and support, especially for students aspiring to enter professions in healthcare. These opportunities promised to expand my horizons in the healthcare domain, deepen my understanding of the far-reaching implications of healthcare policies on society, and offer valuable guidance as I work toward a future in the medical field. Additionally, during my virtual campus visit, I was spellbound by the campus' natural beauty, from the enchanting gorges to the lush trees. This scenic wonder captivated my senses and evoked memories of my home, cementing my affection for Cornell.
Where is your go-to place to eat on campus, and what is your favorite thing to order?
My go-to is Trillium, a food court-style eatery on Central Campus, specifically on the AG quad, where most of my CALS classes are. My favorite lunch order is a beef burger with sauteed mushrooms, onions, a side of fries, and my favorite burger dressing. The burger station at Trillium offers options extending beyond traditional beef and chicken options, such as alternatives like salmon and veggie burgers.
Tell us about your favorite Cornell memory.
My favorite Cornell memory is my first Homecoming, particularly the fireworks display. This spectacular event had not occurred during my first year at Cornell because of the pandemic, making my first Homecoming even more meaningful. The fireworks show profoundly impacted me, providing a moment of deep reflection. I watched alongside my friends as the fireworks burst over Schoellkopf Field, their brilliance contrasting against the backdrop of Cornell's academic buildings. In that mesmerizing moment, an overwhelming sense of nostalgia swept over me, even though I was still on campus. I found myself looking ahead five years and contemplating the profound longing I'd feel for this extraordinary institution, the irreplaceable friendships I had forged, and the countless opportunities that Cornell had bestowed upon me.
What is your favorite class so far, and why?
My favorite class at Cornell is a course called Introduction to Global Health. This class catalyzed my internal transfer from the College of Arts & Sciences to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. What set this course apart was its unveiling of healthcare from a perspective I had not previously encountered, transforming my understanding of the field. Traditionally, healthcare and health issues are approached from a treatment-centric standpoint. Yet, this class provided a comprehensive global outlook that broadened my horizons, revealing the multifaceted factors influencing the career I aspire to pursue.
Furthermore, my professor forged genuine connections with her students, and her commitment to meaningful interactions was exemplified through a series of "coffee and conversations" sessions, where students could engage in discussions while sharing a meal. These sessions enriched our understanding and nurtured a sense of community I hold dear.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to work in health policy or research for one-to-two years before entering medical school in hopes of becoming an oncologist. I have received much guidance from my faculty advisors and career advisors in planning my future career.
Tell us about your favorite place to study.
My favorite study spot is the Sumner M. Kirby Memorial Room in Uris Library. The many vintage portraits add to the Kirby Room's ambiance, and it's quiet and close to Olin Library's café, so I can easily access drinks or snacks without interrupting my studies. One of the best things about this room is its many windows overlooking the Slope, providing a fantastic view of West Campus, Ithaca, and Cayuga Lake. Lastly, this room is accessible 24/7, so I can always have a late-night or early-morning study session in this room.