Destiny Smith '24
College/School: College of Arts & Sciences
Major(s): Biological Sciences
Minor(s): Linguistics
Campus Involvement: Kessler Presidential Scholars Program, Research, Rho Psi Eta Pre-Health sorority, Chess Club, OKU Libraries employment
What photos did you choose to share and why are they meaningful?
Starting college during COVID-19 pandemic, it took me some time to explore Cornell's campus and the surrounding areas. The first photo (above) of one of my first times visiting the slope as a Cornell student, was also when I met with someone in person from the virtual Orientation week. To this day, we are still friends and I've visited the slope more times than I can count! The second photo (below) is during the most recent summer/fall that I spent in Ithaca at one of the concerts in the Commons. It reminds me of how much of Ithaca I was able to experience from my academic semesters to my experience-filled summers on campus.
How have you grown during your time at Cornell?
By my senior year, I developed an appreciation for not only different corners of Cornell's campus, but the broader Ithaca area as well. These two photos remind me of how much more comfortable I feel with the community because of the people I've met, places I've been, and experiences I gained through Cornell. Overall, I have become a much more open-minded, conscientious, and self-aware through my time in college.
What's a core memory you'll always have from your time at Cornell?
It's difficult to choose from just one core memory from Cornell but of them all, every experience, workshop, and celebration with the Kessler Scholars and the amazing staff that support us in every have been priceless moments that characterize my Cornell experience. I feel a stronger sense of belonging at Cornell and equipped to be a positive contributor to society and the world because of their support.
What's the one thing you'll take away from your experience?
One of the most important things I will take away from my experience at Cornell is the confidence that I have gained to be unapologetically myself and the confidence in my ability to accomplish the most ambitious of goals.
What advice would you have for new Cornellians?
Try everything that you're interested in! This is the best time to pick up new skills, join organizations, and learn more about any topic that interests you. Take advantage of the access you have to the freedom of exploration that you have in college.