Chemistry Major at Cornell - What should I expect?

Hey everybody, I'm considering majoring in chemistry at Cornell and I was wondering if any current students or alumni could share their experiences. What are the classes like and what's the overall workload? How competitive is it to get into the program?

Hey there! It's always exciting to see people interested in chemistry, and Cornell has a strong chemistry program.

First of all, the chemistry major at Cornell falls under the College of Arts and Sciences. In terms of getting into the program, you'll go through the standard admission process for the college. While there's no separate application, you can express your strong interest in chemistry in your application essays or extracurriculars.

When it comes to the coursework, the chemistry major at Cornell is designed to give you a solid foundation and also provide opportunities for specialization. You'll be required to take core courses in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, along with coursework in analytical chemistry and/or chemical biology. Apart from these mandatory classes, there are electives in areas like materials chemistry, organometallics, and bioinorganic chemistry, just to name a few.

The workload for a chemistry major can be demanding, as is the case with many STEM programs. In addition to lectures, you should expect weekly problem sets, laboratory sessions, and occasional group projects. It's crucial to manage your time efficiently, as balancing a heavy course load with extracurricular activities can be challenging. That being said, many students find the subject matter engaging and fulfilling, making the effort worthwhile.

As for the overall atmosphere, Cornell maintains a collaborative environment where students are encouraged to work together and learn from each other. While some competition may be present, especially in high-stake courses, most students find the collaborative culture to be supportive and helpful for both their academic and personal growth. Additionally, the chemistry department's faculty is welcoming and accessible, often providing their time to assist students during office hours or as research mentors.

In summary, if you're passionate about chemistry and prepared to put in the effort, Cornell's program offers a challenging and rewarding academic experience. The strong foundation in chemistry and the availability of various specializations make it an excellent place to develop your skills and passion for the subject. While the workload may be demanding, the supportive and collaborative atmosphere helps students navigate through the program and advance their understanding of chemistry.

I hope this information helps with your decision-making process, and I encourage you to reach out to current students or alumni to gain more personal insights. Good luck!