What to expect when visiting Cornell?

I'm planning on visiting Cornell's campus soon, but I'm not sure what to expect or what I should do to make the most out of the visit. Any tips or experiences to share?

Visiting a college campus can be an enlightening experience as it provides a firsthand insight into the campus life that you cannot fully grasp from pictures or descriptions. When visiting Cornell, there are several things you might want to keep in mind to maximize your visit.

Firstly, try to book a campus tour if they're offered. Cornell's campus tours will provide you with comprehensive insights into both academics and student life. They're led by student ambassadors who can share their experiences and provide you with a student's perspective. It’s an opportunity to ask questions about the daily life of students, the academic rigor, and anything else pertaining to the school. You can also see iconic places on campus like the McGraw Clock Tower and the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

Following the campus tour, consider attending any academic sessions offered by the departments you're interested in. This is an excellent way to learn about the academic offerings and resources available, and possibly even meet faculty members.

Don't forget to walk around the campus on your own as well. Exploring without a guide can often lead to more insights and observations as you witness the day-to-day activities of students on campus. Be sure to check out some of the libraries like Uris or Olin, popular student hangouts like Collegetown, dining halls, and fitness facilities.

Engage with the students there. Ask them what they like or don’t like about studying at Cornell – students are generally honest and their candid responses can give you a deeper understanding of what life at Cornell could be like.

Lastly, swing by the surrounding Ithaca community. It is not only beautiful but it's where you'll be spending quite a lot of time if you end up going to Cornell. Having a lunch in downtown Ithaca or visiting the nearby Cayuga Lake will provide you with a sense of the local culture and influences.

Remember, the ultimate aim of the visit is to see if you can envision yourself being happy and thriving there for the next four years. Keep an open mind and enjoy the experience.