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Maura Mayhew '24

College/School: Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR)

Major(s): Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR) 

Minor(s): Business; Fashion Study; Inequality Studies

Campus Involvement: LGBT Resource Center, Delta Delta Delta, Honors Thesis Candidate (ILR)

What photos did you choose to share and why are they meaningful?

The first photo (above) is of me and my best friend, Ruby Berger '24 joining our sorority and meeting for one of the first times. We instantly clicked, and have been so close (and roommates!) ever since. The second photo (below) is of us on our last Cornell spring break ever, spending time together in New York City where we will both be living after graduation.

These photos are so meaningful to me because you can see in our smiles both the joy and growth Ruby and I have shared together over our time at Cornell. I am so lucky to have met Ruby and my other incredible close friends, Grace O'Malley '24 and Kate Scuderi '24, through my sorority, but Cornell has provided me with incredible supporters through many other places on campus beyond Greek Life as well.

Maura and Ruby
Maura and Ruby visit NYC during on 
Spring Break in 2024

How have you grown during your time at Cornell?

Since the first photo was taken, I have grown professionally and personally in thoughtfulness, compassion, and scholarship. Yet, I think my most important change has been learning to take risks, and never let trying something new embarrass me. Life is meant to be exciting, and Cornell has exposed me to so many wonderful chances to try the things that scare me - whether it's writing a thesis or learning to ice skate in a PE class.

What's a core memory you'll always have from your time at Cornell?

A core memory I will always have from my time in college was attending the performance one of my earliest friends at Cornell, Jacob Tamor '24, in the Melodramatics spring musical production of "Heathers." He was incredible, but it was also just so rewarding to see his growth in confidence since we met.

What's the one thing you'll take away from your experience?

Working at the LGBT Resource Center has provided me with the knowledge and language to better support and uplift every person around me. I've learned how to make an impact as an activist and challenge limiting ideas.

What advice would you have for new Cornellians?

My advice for new Cornellians would be to actively look for opportunities on campus or in the Ithaca community that expose you to new ideas and potential interests. One of the best things about college - especially Cornell - is that there are so many chances to expand your worldview, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections.

Meet more members of Cornell's Class of 2024

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