What does the Kessler Scholars Program mean to you?
The Kessler Scholars Program has truly made Cornell feel like home. Not only is it a group of students and staff who care about each other and can relate to each other, it is an opportunity to start college with a community. This group has provided me with opportunities that I never could have imagined and incredible support. I truly believe that being a part of the Kessler Scholars Program was a pivotal aspect of my time at Cornell.
What challenges have you faced throughout college, and how have you overcome them?
I would say the biggest challenge I have faced was trying to balance everything I wanted to do to develop a career like internships, with school, work, and a social life. It’s also intimidating thinking of finally taking a break from my education and joining the ‘real world’ as we call it. However, I can honestly say that I am more confident to start the next chapter of my life because of the support provided by the Kessler Scholars Program.
Have you participated in any experiential opportunities during college, and if so, what was your experience? What are you looking forward to doing personally or professionally after graduation?
I traveled with Kessler Scholars to study abroad in Ghana. I can say without a second thought that it was a life-changing experience. There was so much thought put into every aspect of our trip, and we were exposed to so many aspects of Ghanaian culture.
I also currently intern with a wildlife rehabilitation center in Ithaca, NY and next year, I will continue working for the rehabilitation center. This has been an incredible opportunity to see what it is like to do work I hope to do in the future. I am looking forward to working with wildlife in different capacities, hopefully in conservation.
What advice do you have for future Kessler Scholars?
Be open to anything and everything. If there is something that you are even remotely curious about, take the step to do it, even if you are scared, do it scared. This is the best time to try all the things that you could possibly do with your life. It is easy to look around you and see classmates doing what we might see as more than what we are accomplishing. Do not compare yourself to others. Though life may seem short, it is also incredibly long, and you can try whatever you want. Don’t rush through every moment you have and don’t let the fear of not reaching the same level as others keep you from trying. Before you know it, you’ll be graduating and wondering how it all went by so fast.
Read more about the Class of 2024 and the impact of the Kessler Scholars Program, or connect with us at [email protected].