Three students sitting around a table talking

Meet the Peer Advisors

We encourage you to find out more about your Peer Advisors and some guidance they offer first-year students.  If you are unsure about how to approach your Peer Advisor or what questions they might be able to help with, feel free to refer to the following list as a place to start the conversation!

  • What do you enjoy most about your major?
  • How did you decide to select your major?
  • Which classes have you liked the most in your major?
  • Did you have any major classes that you didn't like, but you still enjoy your major?
  • Which electives have you taken and why?
  • How did you decide which liberal studies courses to take?
  • Have you completed any internships, co-op, or research? How did you find the opportunity?
  • Are you involved with any project teams?
  • Do you know anyone who is involved with (fill in the blank)?
  • What are your plans after you graduate?
  • Where's the best place to study?
  • Do you have any study tips for a certain class or subject?

2023-24 College of Engineering Peer Advisors by Major

Biological Engineering (BE)

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There are no Biological Engineering Peer Advisors for the 2023-2024 academic year. 

Biomedical Engineering (BME)

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Puloma BishnuPuloma Bishnu (pb472)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

You will fail many times, and that's okay. Give yourself time to adjust to the rigor and difficulties of college and Cornell Engineering, and understand that even if your classmates seem like they are perfectly fine, they too are adjusting to college coursework and learning how to build a life on campus. You won't do well on all your exams throughout college, receive every internship offer, and get into every club. Everything happens for a reason, and you will look back and realize that these are learning lessons that shape how resilient and successful you are. They are necessary for growth. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

In high school, I was involved in bioengineering research and coming to Cornell, I saw that the classes offered to BME students were incredibly interesting and I wanted to take them after reading the course descriptions. I found that the BME major's mission and values align with mine as an aspiring researcher and I knew it was the right fit for me after speaking with multiple BME students.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am involved with the Indian dance team. Nazaqat, which is the only Kathak dance team on campus. It has given me a community of people who I can relate to culturally and personally, as well as a way to learn a difficult but rewarding dance style that is incredibly fun to perform with my teammates. The team has provided a safe space where I completely forget about my stresses and concerns with school and personal life, and just focus on dancing and the music. I am grateful for the stress reliever and opportunity to clear my head when my days are typically so packed. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Angelina ChanAngelina Chan (ac2566)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don’t overload yourself! Give yourself enough time to explore strategies that work for you to help balance everything on your plate. Take care of yourself and don’t be afraid to utilize resources at hand to ask for help. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I have always known that I wanted to be a part of the medical field in some manner. I learned about BME when researching and found it fascinating how it was a perfect intersection between biology, mathematics, and engineering. What really solidified my decision was taking Intro to BME as my ENGRI requirement, since it allowed me to briefly explore the different BME concentrations offered. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love taking walks around campus/Ithaca with friends. I find a good walk coupled with wonderful weather can do a lot to clear my mind. Also, my friends and I try to have game nights whenever we are free, which is a bunch of fun. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Alexandra GriffinAlexandra Griffin (acg232)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Balance your school and social life! Everyone has and will continue to tell you this, but it could not be more true. At any school, especially at Cornell, it can become easy for you to get sucked into your grades, but studying is not everything. I am guilty of forgetting this occasionally. There are so many incredible opportunities to meet new people and have fun. Enjoying your time when you are not studying will help you focus and be more productive on your schoolwork. Studying is important, but so is remembering to spend time and make memories with friends. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Being the daughter of a pediatrician, biology was always in my genes. However, besides biology, I was addicted to Legos and asked how everything worked as a kid; that made BME the perfect major for me. BME allows me to be a part of the team creating the solution to improve the lives of thousands of people worldwide by combining my interest.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I joined the Cornell Ski Team, which has been one of my favorite things at Cornell. We travel to different mountains each weekend to compete in ski races against other schools. It has been one of my favorite things, not just because I love to ski but also because of the people who make each practice, race, and team event enjoyable and memorable. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Ashler LalAsher Lal (al2333)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Find a study group, especially for your tougher classes! It is so much easier to get through tough classes and problem sets when you have other people to do work with. This could also be an awesome way to make friends as a new student in engineering. I met some of my best friends this way, and now we keep each other accountable.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I chose BME because it combines my interests in medicine/healthcare and problem solving. Deciding on a major can be difficult so I would definitely recommend talking to your advisors or professors, and upperclassmen in majors you're interested in. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I really enjoy cooking and baking! It's a great way to release stress, and it's a creative outlet of mine. As a bonus, I also have food to bring to my friends and club meetings. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Clarice LimClarice Lim (cxl3)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Go to office hours. It's a great place to get to know your teachers and TAs, and to make friends.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided after taking the Introduction to Engineering class for BME. I really enjoyed the hands-on labs we did in the class.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a part of the fencing team and it has been a great resource for academic and social support.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Modupe OridotaModupe Oridota (mco55)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself that it is okay to say no. I found it really hard to balance school and hanging out with friends first semester. Since I was trying so hard to make new friends, I often said yes to hanging with friends and neglected my school work which I ended up severely regretting so I would tell freshman year me to say no more. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided to major in Biomedical Engineering because of a biotechnology class I took during my junior year in high school. I already knew that I would be majoring in engineering because I loved math and science but didn't know what kind. However, after taking this biotechnology class, I became interested in the endless applications biology had to engineering and the different paths you could take in biomedical engineering. That is how I ultimately decided on my major. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am very involved in my local church's media team and participating in it has helped me feel responsible and needed for something that is not school related and I really enjoy the church community that I have become a part of. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Josie ReillyJosie Reilly (jar578)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Go to office hours and reach out to your professors/TAs if you need help.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I chose BME because it combines my interests in medicine and engineering.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm in the rock climbing club, which is a super fun way to meet more people.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Ella SultanElla Sultan (eks74)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself to not stress out over my grades as much. I thought that I was doing a lot worse in my classes than I actually was, and when I took the time to calculate my grades, I was doing way better than I realized. College is hard, and that's ok. Just do the best you can.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I already knew I was going to be in BME before I even got to Cornell. I actually found a Ted Ed video about synthetic biology and that's what got me into BME in the first place. When I took ENGRI 1310, Introduction to Biomedical Engineering, my first semester at Cornell, I knew that I had made the right decision. It was one of my favorite classes that I took freshman fall.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm actually the secretary of the Cornell Quidditch club! It has helped me to make friends and get to know people from all around the school as well as learn to play a really fun sport that gives me a reason to do at least an hour of exercise every week. I highly recommend it for anyone who likes Harry Potter or just wants to be a part of a really fun club.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Emma WeissEmma Weiss (erw89)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Make friends in your classes! It is so beneficial to study and work through problems in groups. It really helps to illuminate anything you are struggling with and get answers to specific questions. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I have always been interested in biology and physics and wondered how the two subjects depend on one another. I want to understand how applying the principles of mechanics to the medical field can improve human quality of life. Taking Introduction to Biomedical Engineering as a freshman definitely reinforced my interest in BME!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a member of Less Than Three Acapella. Music has always been a huge part of my life, and joining an acapella group allowed me to keep it that way. Rehearsals and performances help break up my day and give me healthy breaks from engineering classes. Acapella has also helped me find a sense of community on campus and meet others who I have lots in common with. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Chemical Engineering (ChemE)

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Julia Arnold (jca243)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself to remember to stop and smell the roses once in a while. The engineering classes can get incredibly stressful, and the transition to college is often overwhelming too. As a result, it can sometimes be easy to forget to do non-academic activities with friends, but those are the memories from my freshman year that I look back on the most fondly. So, I would tell myself to remember to make sure that no matter what, I'm still finding ways to have fun.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I originally thought I was a BME when applying to Cornell. But over the summer, I did some research into related majors and decided to take the CHEME ENGRI course during my freshman fall. That experience coupled with the major information sessions in the fall helped me realize that CHEME was the major for me. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I used the Cornell PE requirement to become a certified barre group fitness instructor. Having the opportunity to work out with others and be a member of such a supportive community has given me a way to counteract all of the STEM-related studying that I have to do. I've met many incredible people through the Cornell Fitness Center community, found new, exciting, and effective ways to work out, and I've been able to grow as a person and an instructor.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Kong ChenKong Chen (kc823)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Balance is key!! Academics are obviously important, but so are mental health and social relationships. One should not prioritize academics to the point where they're no longer considering other factors. I recommend finding a good study group, which can make a huge difference when it comes to studying. Not only are you studying, but also interacting with each other.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

It was definitely not an easy decision and it is okay to not know what you want to major in in the beginning. There is time to decide and try things out. I came in as a ChemE but wasn't sure if that's exactly what I want to do. I was also between EnvE and MSE. With time I realized that I want to work with sustainable energy systems and with ChemE, I can learn about chemical processes, which will better prepare me for my passion.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Ithaca is GORGES(excuse the pun), but seriously it is beautiful. Take a walk, hike, or anything to surround yourself with nature. It truly helps so much with relieving stress. There are also so many restaurants near Cornell, trying out the restaurants with friends is a great activity to do.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Burke CombsBurke Combs (bhc42)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Find others to study with when you can--your peers are your best resource as a student. With their help, hard classes become much more approachable.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I took various chemistry and engineering classes in high school which heavily inspired my decision to pursue ChemE. When I got to Cornell and took Introduction to ChemE (ENGRI 1120), I fell in love with the major and its real-world applications.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I spend a lot of my free time researching the history of popular music. Music is one of my greatest passions and modes of relaxation. This research enhances my appreciation of the music that inspires me.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Lauren de SilvaLauren de Silva (lwd37)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don’t limit yourself. There really is no better time than freshman year to explore your interests. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

ChemE is the perfect major for indecisive people like me. No matter how many times my interests change or my career goals shift, I know with a ChemE degree, I will be prepared for whatever industry I enter. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I spend most of my free time doing mindless things like listening to music and hanging out with friends. Putting time away for myself to unwind has helped me avoid feeling overwhelmed. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Ashlyn DumawAshlyn Dumaw (ad733)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Taking care of yourself is just as important as your grades! Joining clubs, making friends, and learning how to live on your own should be prioritized along with academics. Don’t get so wrapped up in school that you forget to actually enjoy your life.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I chose ChemE because I loved high school chemistry and wanted to use it in an applied context with other STEM fields. After taking ChemE classes here, I’ve discovered that I enjoy the wide applicability of the major - you can do so much with it. That flexibility made me sure I wanted to affiliate with ChemE.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

In my free time, I love to thrift and transform old clothing into new pieces. Sewing allows me to express myself creatively and build a wardrobe that I love!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Steve JiangSteve Jiang (sj436)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Trying out different study spots around campus to find your favorite!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I was between MSE and CHEME my freshman year, but after taking the ENGRI for material science my freshman year, I realized I wanted to pursue CHEME. I decided on CHEME my sophomore year after taking ENGRD 2190!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I enjoy going on runs and exploring what Ithaca has to offer all four seasons. It allows me to get my mind off classes and helps me clear my mind.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

Steve also serves on the Peer Advisor Executive Board as a Co-Chair.

 

Kayla JohnsKayla Johns (kmj68)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Find a method that works for you to keep track of all of your assignments and schedule to help keep you from getting overwhelmed (I am an avid google calendar user). And most importantly, always remember to make time for the things that you love to do!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on ChemE by talking with older students in the major to hear about their experiences and the things that they love about the major. I also did research about the possible career paths that different majors could lead me to and consider what major would help me achieve my overall future career goals.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon, a professional and social STEM sorority on campus that allowed me to become friends with so many amazing and supportive girls that I can study or just relax and hang out with!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Athavan ShanmuganathanAthavan Shanmuganathan (as3277)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Create a stricter routine of studying every day earlier into the semester. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided before coming to Cornell University in high school when I took introduction classes in Chemical Engineering which I really enjoyed so that pushed me to look deeper into the field as a whole.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am in the dance team Cornell Bhangra on campus and it has been so much fun and great stress reliever. I have met so many great people on the team while learning something completely new to me that was good for my health and body. 

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Stephen SmithStephen Smith (sls539)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don’t spread yourself too thin and find a healthy balance of work and fun.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

My goal is to work in a quantitative finance role, so I knew I needed a technical background. Of the possibilities, Chem E interested me the most, and I knew for sure after taking the ENGRI.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I participate in Club rowing. Exercise and outdoor activities have physical and mental health benefits, and club crew has allowed me to combine both of these in a team environment. 

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Sebastian SotoSebastian Soto (ss2736)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

One piece of advice i’d give myself is to make time for myself. Freshman year can be so hectic that it feels like things are constantly happening and you don’t want to miss out on anything. Being able to skip out on things and make time for yourself is extremely important and has helped me ground myself.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I really loved Chemistry in high school and my favorite teacher inspired me to become a Chemical Engineer.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I think going to the gym has really helped me stay motivated and serve as a good way to clear my head when things are getting stressful.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Dave TirtariyadiDave Tirtariyadi (dt393)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take it easy. Don't study all the time. Go out and enjoy the views, and try new things!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I knew I wanted to do engineering. I liked chemistry the best out of the three traditional sciences, so ChemE was the most logical choice. Plus, I wanted to do something related to energy, and I felt ChemE can get me there.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm part of the ChemE Car project team! I've made friends by joining the team and learned a lot!

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Elaina VarrialeElaina Varriale (ejv35)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

The most significant piece of advice I would give myself would be to measure success in other ways, besides academically. For me, I was not doing as well as I thought I would, and I had to fight the disappointment in myself. But in reality, I was successfully acclimating to the Cornell community and making new friends, which I had to give myself credit for. While the primary reason we are all here is to further our education, it is important to take a step back and prioritize yourself and the connections/memories you are making with those around you. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I was always drawn to the STEM field and I concluded that I wanted to study some form of engineering. Chemical Engineering stood out to me, not only because I liked chemistry but also because of how broad it was. I didn't really know what I wanted to do post-grad, but Chemical Engineering was involved in everything from consumer products to energy to pharmaceuticals. It's extremely challenging, but I couldn't see myself doing anything else now that I'm going into my junior year.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love exploring the Ithaca community and all that it has to offer. I think it's a bit of a misconception that Ithaca is in the middle of nowhere and may not have much to do. I love exploring the different hiking locations, restaurants, ice cream places, and beautiful views that Ithaca has to offer. Ithaca is definitely what you make of it and I would encourage everyone to go exploring in their free time. It's also an excuse to get off campus, even just for a little bit.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Amy WuAmy Wu (asw254)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Stay organized and manage your time well with all your assignments. At the same time, make sure to find time to relax, hang out with friends, and do something fun.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I've always loved math and chemistry, and I've always wanted to help solve global challenges and make a difference in the world. With chemical engineering, I've found ways to use my interests to achieve those goals. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love to watch TV (especially crime dramas) and go on hikes with friends. It's always important to take a break away from schoolwork to refresh and have some fun. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Civil Engineering (CE)

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Aiko AkiyamaAiko Akiyama (ata66)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Set aside time for friends and fun activities! Treating yourself in this way will improve your mental health and allow you to return to your studies later with heightened vigor. It is easy to feel overwhelmed if you do not break up your time with something outside of school work. Cornell is academically rigorous, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy yourself!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Since I was little, I have been fascinated with the way things are made. I loved taking things apart to figure out how they worked. I wondered how bridges were able to support the weight of all the cars driving over it. This interest combined with my strengths in mathematics and problem solving led me to Civil Engineering.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a member of the dance group, LOKO. Through this community, I have grown close friendships with my fellow dancers; practicing with them gives me something to look forward to every week. Not to mention, dancing has also been a creative outlet for me and a great source of exercise.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Juliana ChenJuliana Chen (jkc223)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Be patient and trust yourself in the process of adjusting to a new environment. You’ll find a friend group for you with people who appreciate you for who you are.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Looking at the required classes for each engineering major helped me realize what really interested me, which ended up being Civil Engineering!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I like to go on weekly runs with my running buddy to explore different trails around Ithaca and to stay somewhat in shape.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Jodi HahnJodi Hahn (jyh42)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Try to prioritize establishing a routine—find consistent times that work for you to wake up, exercise, see friends, attend office hours, study, etc. But also, don't be afraid to be spontaneous.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Joining a Project Team was a great way to figure out what I might want to affiliate into. Similarly, talking to upperclassmen who are both in and out of my intended major has been really insightful. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love to knit or crochet in my free time. It helps me take my mind off things and as an added bonus I end up with lots of sweaters and cardigans to wear in snowy Ithaca! 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Adigun OlusolaAdigun Olusola (abo29)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself that struggle builds character and that all of this hard work will prepare you for much greater future endeavors.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

There were a few things that influenced my decision on my major. I was always good at math in high school and growing up in New York City, I was always fascinated by the infrastructure and architecture of skyscrapers and buildings. I knew I didn't want to do Architecture but still wanted something creative and technical. As a result, I looked into Civil Engineering and eventually grew to appreciate it as my major. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I workout a lot. It's given me tremendous peace of mind and is something I look forward to doing as often as I can. I typically aim to go 4-5 days a week. 

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

Adigun also serves on the Peer Advisor Executive Board as the Vice Chair of Recruitment.

 

Catie PrattCatie Pratt (cep99)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take advantage of office hours! Office hours are the perfect place to get a more in-depth understanding of your class materials, get more one-on-one help from TA’s, and to form study groups. I met some of my closest friends in office hours.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I always kind of had a feeling that I wanted to do Civil Engineering because I really loved the high-rise structures and bridges in Chicago! I knew for certain that I was in the right major after taking ENGRI 1160 with Professor Hover. That class made me really excited to start taking more in-depth civil classes!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

 I’m a part of Cornell’s only all tap dance troupe, On-Tap! Tap dancing is a real creative outlet for me and choreographing for the team is a good way to improve my leadership skills and keep me active! Sometimes it can be hard to get outside and be active when you’re adjusting to a Cornell Engineering workload, but it’s important to prioritize your mind and your body.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Computer Science (CS)

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Katherine Chang WuKatherine Chang Wu (kc842)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself to reach out to others more often. I found myself often hesitating to reach out to others, whether it had been for academic help, to grab lunch/dinner together, or to go hang out. I would definitely urge my freshman self to prioritize making memories with others and really appreciate what Cornell has to offer. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on CS in high school after I had taken my first Python class. After spending hours and hours on assignments, I surprisingly found that I actually enjoyed the grueling process of coding and debugging. I liked how logic focused CS is and its many diverse applications. The possibilities of CS genuinely excites me and I look forward to exploring them.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Going to the gym is something that I began in college. I enjoyed the nice break that it gives from the stress of academics in addition to the feeling of being active. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Matthew ChenMatthew Chen (mlc338)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

It's really daunting to come into college and immediately be faced with so many decisions that could have a significant impact on your future career and life. I definitely felt overwhelmed at times, and my best advice is to just relax and have faith that everything will fall into place: let yourself be free and explore new things you think you might enjoy and find ways to get involved with hobbies and interests you've had throughout high school, and just roll with whatever feels right.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I didn't originally intend to do CS at Cornell, but I ended up really enjoying the kind of problem solving involved with designing algorithms. To me, solving algorithmic problems is a perfect mix of structured yet creative thinking that never gets old, and I'm glad I gave CS a shot.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm on the Cornell Mundial club soccer team, and it's been a great way to relax with friends playing the sport I love, and to have a group of people I know I can rely on.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Stella DongStella Dong (ssd74)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't be afraid to do things by yourself that interest you! everyone is super friendly during the first few weeks and you'll probably meet some new friends

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Taking classes related to majors I was interested in.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Going to the gym! Super cheesy but it helps me keep my mind distracted for a little bit and take a quick break from all the stress.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Stella also serves on the Peer Advisor Executive Board as a Vice Chair of Retention.

 

Gabby FiteGabby Fite (gff29)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Grades are important but they do not define you. It is ok not to get perfect grades, school is more than academics it is about experiences and learning. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I was introduced to CS by my father. I really enjoyed my first CS class, and then decided to make a career out of it. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I enjoy going to the gym. Its a way to move my body and hang out with friends. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Caitlyn JoyceCaitlyn Joyce (cej57)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

The best place to study is the 2nd floor of Mann Library in the cubicles.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

After taking CS 1110, I decided to switch from BME to CS.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

 I like going on runs because it helps me clear my mind when I'm stressed about school.

Preferred pronouns? 

She, Her, Hers.

 

Aditya KakadeAditya Kakade (apk67)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't be afraid of going to office hours or asking TAs/Professors for help!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I chose CS because it genuinely excited me and aligned with my learning style of solving problems/puzzles.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am on Hindu Student Council -- being able to spend time every week on a non-academic activity is an amazing and much needed break, and I've made a lot of friends outside my major by going to meetings and helping the club plan events!

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Ella KrechmerElla Krechmer (egk46)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself that I would be alright. The beginning of your first year is so difficult, being away from home and struggling with balance. I would love for younger me to know that it really would get better, and I would find my place and my people.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I became interested in CS by taking classes in high school, and I was really excited by the combination of problem solving and creativity I saw in my assignments and projects. Coming to Cornell, my CS classes furthered that interest and convinced me to purse a CS major.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

BASE Productions, a contemporary and hip hop dance group on campus, has allowed me to continue fostering my love of dance after coming to college. I've found an amazing community with my fellow dancers, and was able to meet people that I never would have in the College of Engineering.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Neha KulshreshthaNeha Kulshreshtha (nk442)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't stress out too much about academics! It all works out in the end and focus more on building strong personal relationships and making time for yourself. Also, explore new things and finds what makes you happy!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I knew before entering Cornell that I wanted to be a CS major! Taking the CS classes here my first year reaffirmed my desire to affiliate with the CS major.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a member of the Society of Women in Business and I've been able to meet a lot of really inspirational women!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Kian MahmoodiKian Mahmoodi (km777)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Make sure you focus on your academics and get your work done, but also give yourself some time to relax by doing something completely non-engineering related. Try to join a club, make/hang out with your friends, or even work on a hobby you enjoy.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

When I first came to Cornell COE I was planning on pursuing a completely unrelated major to CS, but after teaching myself basic programming, I found a keen interest in the field. And after taking multiple CS classes at Cornell, I realized CS was a much better fit for me so I began pursuing CS.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I like to go on random walks and get to know the campus and the greater Ithaca area better (with the added bonus of getting my mind off classwork).

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Sophie MengSophie Meng (sym28)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Make sure to take care of yourself and give yourself a break by doing things you enjoy.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I think CS is a flexible field and can be applied to essentially any other field of study, which is what really drew me to it. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love to run, and it’s a great way to manage my stress and activity levels. Plus, if I run outside, I can explore the campus and surrounding community.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Vaishnavi VinodhkannaVaishnavi Vinodhkanna (vv92

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

You are here for a reason. In freshman year, it is easy to doubt yourself and feel imposter syndrome. When you feel this way, it is important to take a step back and acknowledge that Cornell chose you as a part of their student body for a reason, and that you are capable!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Taking CS1110 with Professor Walker White was an amazing experience that made me confident in my decision to pursue CS. Additionally, speaking with industry professionals as well as current CS students gave me a lot of perspective on what life is like as a CS student and beyond!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

One non-engineering activity that has had a positive impact on my life is being involved in Cornell Hindu Student Council(HSC). Cornell HSC has been a grounding force in my life, providing me with a wonderful and tight knit group of people!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Grace WangGrace Wang (gzw2)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Figure out a time management system that works for you. Everyone has different organization strategies, so find one that works best for yourself and it will definitely make your time here easier. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I came into Cornell intending on studying Engineering Physics. After taking a couple of Computer Science classes and using these tools in my AEP research, I realized that Computer Science offers much more breadth that would allow me to work in a variety of fields that I am interested in. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am in CUSail, which is a project team that creates an autonomous sailboat. Being in a project team has helped me develop my hard skills as well as my soft skills. It's a fun way to take a break from school work, and work alongside likeminded peers on an exciting project. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Sophia XuSophia Xu (shx3)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't be so stressed about the little things.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I started out as Materials Science, but then realized the type of problem solving in CS was what I was truly interested in. I tried a lot of different major classes, so don't be afraid to experiment!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Going on daily walks and getting a gym membership! Staying active has made me much happier.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Kelly YueKelly Yue (ky387)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take your time getting situated. No one is expecting you to know everything immediately! 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I always knew I would be going into CS, and Cornell has given me many opportunities to explore this field. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

WICC, has really connected me with other women who are interested in STEM!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS)

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There are no Earth and Atmospheric Science Peer Advisors for the 2023-2024 academic year. 

Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)

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Afua AnsahAfua Ansah (ama376)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Asma AnsariAsma Ansari (ara89)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don’t be so hard on yourself, but don’t let yourself off the hook either. Prioritize yourself, but that doesn’t mean letting go of important goals and achievements that will make you feel confident and happy with yourself.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided to commit to ECE because I wanted to understand how electronics work. So many aspects of our lives have become intertwined with computers that it only makes sense to understand how they work.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I started reading for leisure again, and it’s a nice break from using my electronics. I have been learning a lot more from reading for fun compared to reading for a class.

What are your pronouns?

Any Pronouns

 

Chimdi AnudeChimdi Anude (cca54)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

 Never skipping meals before exams. It is so easy to be focused on studying for an exam that you forget to eat. Feeding your mind and your body is crucial for being successful.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I took a Digital Electronics class in high school and really enjoyed the content. I also love how versatile ECE can be. I don't feel like I am limited to one job or one industry.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love to read! Whether it's fiction, memoirs, or opinion pieces, I enjoy escaping the world around me and diving into subjects and topics that use other parts of my brain. I learn new things about myself every time I pick up a new book.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Kirti BagepalliKirti Bagepalli (kb593)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take advantage of opportunities like office hours or tutoring services early on because it can be a great way to meet people to collaborate on problem sets and make connections with the TAs for when you need help.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Initially, I was leaning toward computer science because that's what I had the most experience with, but after taking a physics class in high school, I became more interested in electrical engineering and decided to shift toward ECE.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a part of Nazaqat, the kathak-fusion dance team, which helps me de-stress from academics and where I have made some of my closest friends outside of engineering. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Elizabeth PolitoElizabeth Polito (emp234)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Make sure to take a good mix of classes to challenge yourself while also giving yourself the opportunity to try new things and get out of your comfort zone.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

ECEs can do everything! While I came to Cornell hoping to major in computer science, I quickly realized that ECE would be the perfect fit since it would allow me to take rigorous computing classes while also focusing on math and physics. Taking the three introductory courses in the major and joining the undergraduate ECE organization, IEEE, confirmed that the major was a great fit.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I really like taking advantage of the libraries we have on campus to read books for fun! Sometimes while I’m studying in Olin, I’ll get up and browse the stacks. Reading helps me unwind each day and explore my interests outside of engineering.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Sherri QaziSherri Qazi (sq86)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

One piece of advice that I would give myself during my first year is to not stay in my room, be social/go to socials, and go to office hours if you're struggling. I tend to let myself struggle on my own, but by meeting people I was able to cultivate a network of classmates and friends that could help me emotionally and academically. The same people I met in an FWS are now my best friends in the same major as me!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on my major from the information sessions that are offered in the first semester. I knew that I wanted to be an ECE major based on the classes where the content came naturally to me and that I enjoyed. I suggest taking a variety of classes from different engineering fields and seeing what you like the best!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

One non-engineering activity that I am involved with is Moot Court, a competition-based club where students prepare legal research, write briefs, and complete oral arguments in front of a panel of judges. It has benefited me by improving my public speaking skills, argumentative skills, and has given me an opportunity to interact with students of other academic disciplines that can teach me about non-STEM related ideas and concepts.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Nick TrejoNick Trejo (nt286)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to join as many clubs as you can.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I joined the electrical subteam of a project team and I really enjoyed the work I was doing. I have also enrolled in major course which will help solidify my decision to pursue ECE.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am on a club soccer team, which helps me take a break from academics. It's also a fun way to stay healthy and fit. 

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Rachel YanRachel Yan(sy625)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Seek for more help from your peers, the upperclassmen, professors and any resources on campus.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided to major in ECE mainly because of two reasons. The first is that I am really interested in the interdisciplinary area of hardware and software, where many classes and experiences in ECE, such as embedded systems and robotics offer exactly this. The second reason is that as a student in engineering, I would love to accomplish something on my own, especially actual projects that people can see and use in daily life. ECE has many project opportunities, classes, and resources that really helps me on that.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I really enjoy music, not only just listening, but I'm also really interested in playing the piano, and sometimes play around with music editing. Currently, I am learning to play the guitar. I think music is the place where I can relax my mind, and think about things in another way, so I can take a break from my busy study life.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Engineering Physics (AEP)

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Sarah BewleySarah Bewley (sab472)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Check research and club opportunities, not just project teams!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I love math and physics, and I wanted to learn more about quantum physics, so I decided to major in Engineering Physics.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Being a part of Cornell Shakespeare Club has allowed me to meet people in other colleges and develop my teamwork skills. 

What are your pronouns?

They, Them, Their

Environmental Engineering (EnvE)

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Celeste ChhibberCeleste Chhibber (cc2525)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

As hard as it sounds, learn to be okay with not doing well. Success isn’t just based on academics, but happiness.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I’ve always been passionate about sustainability, and environmental engineering gives me the opportunity to try and help the planet.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I’m part of a sorority on campus, Kappa Alpha Theta. It’s really easy as an engineering student to feel like you have to shut yourself into the library and study all the time, but that’s not helpful for anyone. Being part of a community such as my sorority has helped me push myself socially, and make sure I’m balancing my time at Cornell.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Maddie EdwardsMaddie Edwards (mpe32)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't stress about what everyone else is doing! It is OK to figure out everything at your own pace. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I am super interested in sustainability and how we can make our everyday life more environmentally friendly. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I joined club soccer in the fall, and it was the best choice I have made at Cornell! It is an amazing group of women who love to compete but also have fun. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

MacKenzie FountainMacKenzie Fountain (mdf226)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Stay rooted in yourself; your values, your confidence, and your genuine personality because you're awesome and all things are possible for you.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on Environmental Engineering in high school after taking AP environmental science. I've experimented with other majors at Cornell by taking certain classes like my Material Science ENGRI and core classes like CHEM 2090, Physics 1112, and CS 1110. I've stayed consistent in my decision throughout my courses.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

An interesting club I joined this past semester is a finance club called BlackGen. Through the club's education series, I gained knowledge in many excel shortcuts, financial accounting, and the process behind investing in stocks. I came in with zero knowledge and left feeling confident in these complex topics.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Information Science, Systems, and Technology (ISST)

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Jennifer AiJennifer Ai (jla292)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

It takes a while to adjust to Cornell, but be sure to meet new people, make friends, take care of yourself, and ask for help when you need to.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I took a few CS courses in my freshman year, but I decided to register for INFO courses after taking AppDev's Intro to Digital Product Design and realizing my interest in the creative and interdisciplinary field of ISST.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I joined Chinese Students Association in my freshman year to meet new people with similar backgrounds and cultures as me. I also love exploring Ithaca's restaurants and gorges.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Sarah BenkoussaSarah Benkoussa (sb967)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Office hours will save your life more than once. Definitely take advantage of OH! You'll gain a lot of great insight into concepts/assignments, plus you'll quickly notice that most students are just as lost and confused as you are.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I actually only decided to major in ISST my spring semester of sophomore year (the absolute last semester to affiliate). Before landing on Information Science, I looked into MechE and CS. As I took more classes, I realized I wasn't really a good fit for either. I then took a few ISST courses and felt that it was right up my alley.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm a part of Cornell's Rock & Roll club! We meet up once a week in the evening. We sit, talk, and listen to albums on vinyl. I met some really cool people there and you don't even need to like rock music. Definitely a great way to destress.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Yesenia PeregrinaYesenia Peregrina (yp328)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Expect the unexpected!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I took classes in multiple engineering departments to understand where my interests are. Additionally, I talked to different academic advisors to understand each major a bit better in order to make my decision. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Yoga! It has helped me manage any stress and anxiety that I face during the academic year. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)

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Sean GriffinSean Griffin (smg344)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

My advice is to find the things that help you get in the study mindset. For me, it was listening to 2010's throwback music. It can be anything-working outside, going to the same library spot, or wearing a hat just for studying. Whatever gets you in the mindset to work!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I always knew I wanted to be an engineer but for a long time, I wasn't sure what kind. I had a teacher in high school who made a big impact on my life and he was a Materials Science engineer. Because of him and the endless opportunity in the field of Materials Science, I decided to pursue MSE!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I've found working out to be a great activity to do at Cornell. At the gym, I have met so many like-minded people who want to work hard and better themselves. It helps keep me focused on my goals while getting stronger because of it!

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Carina LinCarina Lin (cll253)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

If you're confused, ask questions. Even if you don't get the answer (if there is one), you might learn a new thing or two about next steps and how to approach that topic, problem, or situation. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

Everything is made of something—one material or several—and I find that diversity of material properties fascinating. For instance, the tempering process for chocolate determines its crystalline structure and that in turn determines properties like the satisfying snap of breaking off a piece or the silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Materials Science & Engineering is a very interdisciplinary field that allows me to pursue my interests in a range of subjects from chemistry to math and art.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Joining Illuminations and exploring new choreographies has kept me active and given me the opportunity to meet many friends studying a whole range of majors. It's a different kind of learning and it has been a lot of fun!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Sebastian MariniSebastian Marini (sam579)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Please, please, please talk to professors. They are here to help you. It may seem daunting and you may feel it's not worth one's time because you won't get help and seem "stupid." Each and every one of you is here for a reason. You will make connections with your professors, have personalized instruction to help you guide your learning and studying, and even learn of other resources to assist you both as an academic and shape your college experience as a Cornellian.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I knew I liked Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. I decided on majoring in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) after taking MSE 1140 taught by Prof. Van Dover. Materials Science is a combination of chemistry, physics, and all other engineering disciplines. MSE is such a fluid major that the possibilities are endless, and the ways one can apply the science is incredible since everything is made of something and anything can be engineered.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a saxophone player for the Big Red Marching Band. Band has helped me two-fold. It reminds me that there's more to my Cornell experience than my studies and my studies alone. In addition, the band allowed me to make a hundred or so instant friends and it's important to meet new people at a university as large as Cornell.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Bradley MorellBradley Morell (bwm54)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Go to more office hours and find groups of friends to do work with as soon as you can in your classes. Also, do as much work as you can outside your room it is more productive.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on my major because of the interesting applications I saw throughout life and the early classes I was taking. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Varsity Track and Field has allowed me to be part of a larger student-athlete group which has provided me with leadership and instilled values of hard work and dedication. 

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Alexis ShermanAlexis Sherman (ars398)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Get out of your dorm room because there are better places to study!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

What I've done so far is remove possibilities that I'm not interested in by exploring with classes and going to events.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm on one of the club volleyball teams, and I'm incredibly grateful to have time set aside every week to be active and relieve stress.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Molly StephensonMolly Stephenson (mjs689)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take advantage of office hours to help meet people in classes. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I’ve always been interested in the intersection of chemistry and engineering, MSE gives me the opportunity to look at engineering issues with a chemistry based lens. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Spending time with friends helps me keep balance within the engineering curriculum. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Mechanical Engineering (MechE)

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Emma BrownEmma Brown (emb384

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself that academic validation is not necessary for success.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on Mechanical Engineering because I like hands-on work and I liked mechanics in physics.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am on the varsity women’s fencing team.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Claire CahillClaire Cahill (cec326)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Embrace the chaos! I was super overwhelmed during my first few weeks at Cornell, but I found my place here very quickly after I started putting myself out there. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I love physics, but I was more interested in learning how to apply that physics to engineering problems rather than just learning theory. I'm also interested in Aerospace/Astronautical engineering, and mechanical felt like a natural starting point to explore those areas. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm involved in the Cornell Astronomical Society. We meet every Friday and run tours of Fuertes Observatory for anyone that comes through. It's become my favorite way to unwind and relax at the end of a long week, and I love being able to talk to people about something I'm really excited about.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Quentin CamachoQuentin Camacho (qbc3)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would advise myself to join as many clubs as possible at the beginning of the year at ClubFest, then narrow down the ones that I really enjoy.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

My interest in Mechanical Engineering stems from my interest in designing and constructing various different things, primarily space technologies. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am on the EBoard of Encouraging Young Engineers and Scientists (EYES) where we go to nearby elementary schools and do science experiments with the kids. I've gained a huge appreciation for how motivated the kids are at learning harder topics and doing harder experiments.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Miriam CanterMiriam Canter (mec353)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself to enjoy the experience of being at Cornell and being surrounded by a ton of different activities, within and outside of school, ranging from research in science and engineering to performance opportunities in the arts and humanities.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I realized that if I went through college without taking classes on what I considered engineering fundamentals -- statics, thermodynamics, eventually system dynamics, etc. -- I would be unsatisfied. So, I figured out that the classes I was most interested in taking were in Mechanical Engineering.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm involved in productions of concerts and comedy shows through Cornell Concert Commission and Cornell University Program Board. Producing an event is a great way to learn the importance of logistics/planning/details but also how to deal with a crisis -- the show must go on!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Evelyn ChiuEvelyn Chiu (ewc55

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Even though academics are important, maintaining a good work-life balance is as well. Give yourself time off to enjoy other non-academic things around campus, whether it’s joining a new club, trying out a new restaurant, or exploring the beautiful scenery around Ithaca!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on Mechanical Engineering because I liked how diverse the major was. There are a lot of career options and directions you could take this degree in, whether it’s construction systems, aerospace, robotics, and more!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I’m a part of Guiding Eyes for the Blind at Cornell, where I work with guide dogs in training every week. As a huge animal person, having dedicated, scheduled time off hanging out a puppy is both adorable and stress-relieving! 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Yassine CoulibalyYassine Coulibaly (zyc3)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

The one piece of advice I would give myself is taking it it easy. Coming to college I wanted to do and try everything and be the best at everything but looking back at my first year I realized that it is important to understand that college is different from high school and that you can't be great at everything and it is very beneficial to take things one step at a time. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I have always been very interested in cars, especially motorsport and knew that I wanted to have a career within that field. Mechanical Engineering is therefore the majors that mostly resonate with me. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I was part of the Piano society the first semester. I played piano in highschool and I joined the piano society to keep touch with this hobby that I liked. It gave me a break from all engineering, and help me relax when I was feeling stressed. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Kavya MitthaKavya Mittha (km773)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take breaks! Academics can easily get hectic, so it is necessary to find a healthy school-life balance. Spending time with friends and non-academic extracurriculars are just a few ways to do so.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

During high school, I had the opportunity to be exposed to numerous engineering fields, and I immediately fell in love with the flexible, hands-on nature of Mechanical Engineering.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am the Events and Logistics board chair for Cornell's Society of India. Through this organization, I have been able to connect and learn from various students and alumni that have similar interests and are apart of the South Asian community. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Mackemey MunionMacKemey Munion (mcm329)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't be afraid to try new things. This is the time to explore and find new interests, hobbies, extracurriculars. You never know what you might discover. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I really loved math and physics in high school, so when deciding which type of engineering I wanted to major in I chose Mechanical Engineering because it is such a broad field. My first year at Cornell really helped me solidify my decision to major in Mechanical Engineering through experience gained through my project team and the MAE specific courses I took. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am in Cornell Thrift where we organize events such as clothing exchanges or reuse events to give the students a sustainable option for getting rid of closet clutter, finding affordable clothing, and reusing old items. 

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Nicholas NatsoulasNicholas Natsoulas (nrn22)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Take advantage of Cornell's professional resources when it comes to professional networking and career counseling.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on my major by narrowing my interests to a few career paths, trying them out in whatever way I could, and then affiliating with the major that best suited my favorite career path.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I'm a part of Cornell's Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Music Club and it has generally benefitted my well-being since playing music with friends is a great way to release stress and re-center oneself.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Patrick O'ConnorPatrick O'Connor (pjo36)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Go to office hours! Everyone tells you to do that all the time and you might roll your eyes, but just go! If you're already on campus and have some homework to get done, why not stop by and give yourself the chance to ask questions on the material?

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I went with Mechanical Engineering so I could explore a broad range of topics. I'm still not fully sure where my career is headed, but I know I like making stuff - by hand, digitally, whatever. Mechanical Engineering seemed like the best way to learn how to do that while leaving plenty of options open.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I work out in my spare time, mostly weightlifting. It's a nice break from sitting down doing work all day, and it always feels nice to set a personal record.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Adhyan PrasadAdhyan Prasad (ap842)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Find a good support group of people that you like to hang around and who will support your interests-no matter what they may be.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided to major in mechanical engineering because of the breadth of knowledge that you gain over your undergraduate career. It opens a lot of doors into potential career fields after graduation and provides a solid basis of engineering knowledge.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Cornell Club Swimming, on which I currently serve as captain, has allowed me to continue one of my passions from high school and meet a lot of really interesting people from all different backgrounds.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Jeffrey RuizJeffrey Ruiz (jr996)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

College will not be like high school at all. The grading system is different and competition is much higher, so do not be so tough on yourself when your report card isn’t filled with As.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I chose my major based on my childhood dream job and then figuring out which major at Cornell would best set me up to chase that dream.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a very active and passionate soccer referee. Not only does it allow me to stay in touch with the sport I love, but it also requires me to exercise in order to stay fit. I have learned to communicate with both young players and adults with the goal of managing a range of emotions, serving as a leader on the field, and creating a safe, fair, and fun environment.

What are your pronouns?

He, Him, His

 

Nidhi SonwalkarNidhi Sonwalkar (nrs84)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Office Hours are really helpful even if you don't have specific questions. Many times, it's a great way to listen to other questions and review concepts with your peers, TAs, and professor. I would recommend going to office hours regularly not just right before exams because they will help you learn continuously.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I have always had an interest in spacecraft design, and the classes, research, and project teams I participated in solidified that interest in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. I would recommend trying to find activities that align with your interests, as well taking a variety of classes to see what major interests you most both academically and in research/project applications.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am involved in rock climbing which is a great way to not only exercise, but find time to relax and spend time with friends.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Hannah ZolockHannah Zolock (hez8)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Go to office hours. It is one of the best places to get homework done. Even if you don't already have a question to ask your TA, it can be helpful to just go and work in the OH room. That way, if you do have a question, you're already there and can just ask. Build time into your schedule to go to office hours for classes you find difficult. Try to go a few days before a problem set is due rather than the day of. It helps you stay on top of homework.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I knew coming into Cornell I wanted to study Mechanical Engineering. This mostly came from being on a robotics team in high school, but also just a general enjoyment in building and learning how things work. What really solidified my MechE choice however was taking ENGRD2020-Statics and Mechanics of Solids. This was my favorite class sophomore year and reassured me that I would enjoy the Mechanical Engineering path.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

One hobby that I have is reading for fun. This is something that I have found over the past couple years really helps me get some time away from classes to do something I enjoy. When it's warm out, I love taking a book to the arboretum or the Cascadilla Gorge trail and reading outside. This hobby helps me to manage my stress and gives me a chance to take a break sometimes.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Hannah also serves on the Peer Advisor Executive Board as the Vice Chair for Communication and Outreach.

Operations Research and Engineering (ORIE)

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Adona AntenehAdona Anteneh (asa226)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Don't let yourself be discouraged by the transition to college! Take advantage of office hours and tutoring hours as much as you can. First year can be overwhelming, but collaborating and asking questions makes life a lot easier!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I knew I wanted to affiliate with ORIE before coming to Cornell because I had heard about the major from my sister. I wanted to do something with data analysis, and I talked to my advisor early on about if ORIE would be a good fit for my interests. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I really like to read in my free time and its great to relax on the slope with a book when the weather is nice!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Courtney CandyCourtney Candy (cec345)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Make good friends in your classes! They will make going to class, doing homework, and studying for exams easier and more fun.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I enjoyed statistics in high school the CS class I took in college so ORIE is a great mixture of these two subjects.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Going for a run or swim with friends. There are so many pretty places on or near campus.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Ashna GuptaAshna Gupta (ag843)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Finding a good balance of school and social life is key. 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I’ve always really loved math, physics, and other engineering-related subjects. After my experience in and out of school, ORIE seemed like a good fit. 

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I’m on the Ski Team! It’s been a great way to make new friends and improve my ski skills.  

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Tanya MainiTanya Maini (tm499)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

It's okay to be overwhelmed, especially in the beginning! Getting used to college is difficult. Don't worry if you are not doing your best in school at first, as you will adjust over time. Don't lose hope- you're here for a reason!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided to major in ORIE because of my love for problem-solving! ORIE is the perfect combination between statistics, mathematical modeling, and data science, which I enjoy. It is super broad, so it will prepare me for a career in numerous fields.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I love walking around Ithaca, especially in the summer! There are so many amazing trails to hike, and the sunsets are gorgeous. I always try to take study breaks to walk with friends, as it's a great way to relief stress. I am also a part of Greek Life, which has allowed me to meet and make meaningful connections with so many new people.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Melenie Mendez-RangelMelenie Mendez-Rangel (mm2583)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Everyone’s college experience is different! If it takes some time to get used to the workload that is perfectly fine, you are here because YOU CAN DO IT. It is easy to get wrapped up in appearances, but everyone has their struggles especially during freshman year. Find a way of studying that works for you, and remember this will be trial-and-error, so do not be discouraged.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I’ve always had an interest in math and after taking the introductory computer science courses at Cornell I knew ORIE was the perfect mix of both.

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

Joining Salsa Pa’lante has allowed me to meet so many inspiring individuals. Being able to go to practice, and leave all worries about school at the door, has been a great stress reliever!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Emma RethyEmma Rethy (evr8)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

I would tell myself to go to office hours to get to know the TAs and Professors early on. They are your biggest advocates, and they can help you get a better understanding about what is going on in the class and what the expectations are.

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I took the ORIE ENGRI class my freshman fall and loved it! The course material was very relevant and applicable, and really showed me how ORIE uses technical skills to solve problems. This will actually be my second semester TAing the course!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I am a ballet dancer in Cornell's Dance Company. It has given me a great outlet exercise and perform, has introduced me to so many friends, and even counts toward Engineering Liberal Studies Credits.

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Emma also serves on the Peer Advisor Executive Board as a Vice Chair of Training and Professional Development. 

 

Kate SawinKate Sawin (khs72)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Prioritize sleep and try to have a balanced lifestyle! If it comes down to studying for an extra hour or going to sleep, choose sleep. In the thick of prelims or finals, don't forget to make time for yourself too!

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I was searching for the intersection of engineering, technology, and business, and ORIE seemed like the perfect fit. This decision was further solidified after taking the ENGRI 1101 class!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I've enjoyed running and going on long walks. Not only is it a great de-stressor, but it also allows you to explore the beautiful campus and Ithaca!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

 

Lily YoungLily Young (ly274)

Looking back to your first year, what is one piece of advice that you would give yourself?

Looking back I would tell freshman me to not be afraid to ask questions. They are the best way to get new perspectives and help from your professor, TAs, and peers. It is also more than likely that someone else has the same question as you, and by asking you will also be helping your classmates! 

How did you decide on your major? Or, how are you deciding on your major if not yet affiliated?

I decided on ORIE because it combined my love for math and problem solving into one! I was first exposed to ORIE in ENGRI 1101 where I was able to learn about its applications and where it can be applied in different fields. Going to the major information sessions and talking to my TAs and upperclassman in ORIE also helped me to decided that ORIE was best for me!

What is one non-engineering activity (club, hobby, exercise, etc.) you are involved with and how has it benefited you?

I started playing squash with my friends after taking the Intro to Squash PE and it helped me form new friendships and find a new community! It has also been the perfect way to take a study break because the squash courts are a five minute walk from the Engineering Quad (and free)!

What are your pronouns?

She, Her, Hers

Lily also serves on the Peer Advisor Executive Board as a Co-Chair.