Anaisa Cespedes '24
College/School: College of Arts & Sciences
Major(s): Biological Science
Concentration(s): Neurobiology and Behavior
Campus Involvement: Kessler Presidential Scholars, Rho Psi Eta Pre-Health Sorority, Pi Beta Phi, Biology Scholars Program
What photos did you choose to share and why are they meaningful?
I chose the first image (above) because I remember when I decided to potentially join a sorority, I was nervous about a lot of things: what if I don't get a bid and even if I did get a bid, what if I don't make any friends? Our initiation date I was so excited to join Pi Phi because all the people I met were amazing and interested in a plethora of subjects and all the worries I had instantly vanished!
The second image I chose (below) was because I was so excited to celebrate all the seniors in the Biology Scholars Program (BSP)! The people in my BSP cohort were the first people I met in my major and they made Cornell a more welcoming place. I felt like in every bio-related class, it was comforting to know one or more of them would be there. So, I am so happy I got to cherish this special moment for us and know what are future plans are!
How have you grown during your time at Cornell?
Past me had no idea what was in store for her. In all honesty, I have completely evolved during my time at Cornell. I am proud to say that I have grown into my own and I was able to find multiple support systems here. Without Cornell, I would not have all the faculty members who encourage me to follow my dreams and connect me with opportunities to achieve them nor would I have any of my lifelong friends who continuously cheer me on.
Freshman year me would not believe all that I have accomplished, especially as a first-generation college student, who had absolutely no clue how college worked. I am proud to say that, with some help, I was able to figure out how to survive all the notoriously hard STEM classes and how to succeed as an undergrad research assistant, TA, in executive positions in clubs, and in various service projects for Tompkins County.
Because of Cornell, I became confident in my identity and academics, and I was encouraged to pursue my interests. I am eternally grateful to all those who shaped my college experience and I encourage current undergrads to be sure to thank those near and dear to their hearts as much as they can!
What's a core memory you'll always have from your time at Cornell?
Being from Miami, Ithaca seemed like a daunting place to live in for the next four years. The distance wasn't the scary part, but it was the winters that would be in my nightmares. My perspective completely changed one day my sophomore spring.
Because inclement weather, Cornell had announced a snow day. I vividly remember waking up and thinking my day would absolutely be boring, full of catching up on schoolwork or binging the Simpsons. But soon my friends knocked on my door, saying they were heading to the slope. There, we stayed for hours making snow angels and sledding down the slope on cardboard boxes. We even became friends with those who were doing the same.
Everyone was so happy and carefree and it seemed like we were experiencing pure childhood enjoyment again. From then on, I vowed to appreciate the changing of seasons while at Cornell, because even the "scary" winters can bring spontaneous joy to all!
What's the one thing you'll take away from your experience?
Don't be afraid to ask for help and always be yourself! During my first year at Cornell, I went through a rough patch personally and being far from home was not helping me. I am so appreciative of Kessler Presidential Scholars because my advisors truly were there for me, and while academics were discussed, I never felt pressured to tell them about my academic "failures," but instead was celebrated for any academic success.
Every time I met with my advisors, I was able to unload any thoughts of doubt or unworthiness of being at Cornell, and they comforted me as they also were first-gen students and knew exactly what I was going through. As a Kessler Scholar, I was uplifted and encouraged to be myself. As a minority student, I was used to being told to blend in but at Cornell, I embraced my culture and unique background. Kessler really showed me that I was not in this alone and that many others were living similar experiences.
What advice would you have for new Cornellians?
Embrace the unknown! Luckily, Cornell offers a unique opportunity to explore all facets of life. As someone who arrived feeling shy, I encourage everyone to push yourself to participate in any activity that piques your interest or take that exciting course outside your major. These opportunities are incredibly rewarding and will leave a lasting impact on you. You may find your bestest friends while doing the most spontaneous activities!