Cornell brings together students who were the top of their class, leaders in their communities, and incredibly driven individuals. It is easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to them.

I still remember the brimming excitement I felt when I was accepted to Cornell, and there’s so much to look forward to once you arrive in Ithaca!

I walk past monumental buildings I once spent hours analyzing on my way to class, and see the Pantheon multiple times a day, while walking to meet friends or getting an evening gelato. What once felt distant and carefully studied becomes part of my daily rhythm. As architecture students, we spend hours analyzing these buildings in drawings and lectures - but in Rome, I encounter them constantly, almost casually.

First-year applicants to Cornell for the fall 2027 semester have two exciting choices on their application. When you apply to the Cornell David A. Duffield College of Engineering or the Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, you’ll have the option to be considered for the Global Start Cantabria program or the DC Start program, respectively.

Coming all the way from Texas, I wondered if I would make friends, find my place on campus, and adjust to this completely new environment. Looking back, one of the best decisions I made before my first year was participating in Cornell's Pre-Orientation Service Trip (POST) program.

Cornell University’s application is open for Fall 2027 applicants! As you head into an exciting but busy school year, read our advice below for first-year applicants.