Meet Pressley Ann

Hailing from Hilton Head, Pressley Ann knows the incredible impact that both small gestures and significant financial decisions can have on a guest's experience and a business's success. At Cornell, she's igniting her passion for transforming lives through hospitality, thanks to the university's unmatched hands-on opportunities and cutting-edge coursework that blend finance and service.

What clubs/activities are you involved with on campus?

I am involved with the Hotel Leadership Development Program, Hotel Ezra Cornell, Forte, Cornell Finance Roundtable, Nolan Ambassadors, Hotel Student Mentorship Program, American Hotel and Lodging Association, and Enactus.

What is your favorite thing about Cornell?

My favorite thing about Cornell is the sense of community and support. With such a diverse student body, there’s a place for everyone to find like-minded people who share similar passions. From my professors to my peers, I feel constantly encouraged to challenge myself, explore new areas, and push boundaries. Cornell’s collaborative spirit and culture of learning have been a huge part of my growth here, and I love being part of a community where everyone is driven to make a difference.

Why is the Cornell Nolan School of Hotel Administration a great fit for you?

The Nolan School of Hotel Administration is a perfect fit for me because it allows me to combine my love for hospitality with my interest in finance and real estate. Through extracurriculars, I am able to gain hands-on experience, giving me real-world exposure to every aspect of running and managing hotels and other hospitality businesses. I’m passionate about creating meaningful guest experiences and learning the financial foundations that make those experiences possible. The opportunities to learn from industry leaders, engage in professional development, and collaborate with students who share my enthusiasm for hospitality have made the Nolan School an ideal place for me to grow.

What is your academic passion?

My academic passion lies in understanding the intersection of finance and hospitality. I love learning how financial decisions influence the guest experience, hotel operations, and long-term success. Studying at Cornell’s Nolan School has given me a unique lens to view finance through the needs of the hospitality industry, allowing me to combine my analytical skills with my desire to make a positive impact on people’s experiences. This blend of technical knowledge and service-oriented learning has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to keep exploring it.

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

One piece of advice I wish I had known when applying is the importance of embracing the diverse range of opportunities available at Cornell. There are so many ways to explore your interests, from unique courses to clubs and professional development events. I would also advise future students to start networking early and begin building and revising their resume as soon as possible. Establishing connections and refining your resume early on is invaluable for staying prepared for recruitment cycles and making the most of the career resources Cornell offers.

When you were applying, why did you choose Cornell?

I chose Cornell because it offers the perfect balance between a strong academic foundation and hands-on experience, especially through the Nolan School of Hotel Administration. I was drawn to the opportunity to learn from leading industry experts and access resources that blend hospitality and finance. Cornell’s commitment to fostering a diverse, supportive community also stood out to me. As well as the natural beauty and calmness of the campus.