Graduating seniors in the A&S Class of 2025

Extraordinary Journeys, the Class of 2025

The Class of 2025 leaves campus at a time of global uncertainty, but they say they feel prepared for the challenges that will come their way. “I feel equipped to handle whatever uncertainties lie ahead,” Osita Achufusi says, while Andrea Zarazúa adds “my learning is limitless.” We celebrate their Cornell journeys: their many accomplishments in the classroom, the research labs and beyond; and the treasured relationships they’ve created here that will bolster them throughout their lives.

Photos by Chris Kitchen

Extraordinary Journeys

Interdisciplinary majors

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Elizaveta Zabelina: Robert S. Harrison College Scholar, Mathematics & Psychology

'Every single course was mind-bending and life-changing'

A&S Communications

Elizaveta Zabelina is a Robert S. Harrison College Scholar who is also majoring in mathematics and psychology.

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'My research gave me new perspectives on what community-building really means'

"Learning to engage with the environment around me, falling in love with Ithaca and studying community-building both in my teaching and independent research was life-changing. Those few months sparked much of how I've grown today."

McKenna Norton: Asian Studies and Robert S. Harrison College Scholar

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'I have a better sense of my place in the world'

"This sense of confidence in your culture will make you more comfortable in rooms where you are underrepresented, more ready to stand up for yourself, and more ready to show the world all the unique skills and talents you have to offer."

Hyrum Edwards: Robert S. Harrison College Scholar, History, Jewish Studies & Near Eastern Studies

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'I used machine learning to analyze factors that impact voter turnout'

"As I have explored my interests through my courses, I have learned to appreciate learning for the sake of it, and working for the sake of producing knowledge. When I think about how I want to spend my time after I leave Cornell, I think about it through the lens of the meaning of my work, both to me and to the world."

Fatima Al-Sammak: Government and Operations Research and Engineering

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'I feel equipped to handle whatever uncertainties lie ahead'

"Cornell provides opportunities for experiences that you truly may never get again, and the best thing to do is take advantage of them as frequently as possible. And when a moment feels too big, don’t hesitate to ask for help (or at least watch the sunset on the slope). It’ll all work out – trust in your abilities!"

Osita Achufusi: Environment and Sustainability

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'My majors allowed me to see the deep interconnections between language, culture, science and societal structures'

"I’ve explored topics ranging from healthcare disparities to the socio-political implications of biotechnology. This interdisciplinary lens has helped me understand how scientific advancements affect — and are affected by — cultural and societal values. Together, these majors have given me a well-balanced and holistic education."

Salvatore Brancato: Biology and Society & Spanish

Humanities

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'Cornell was the perfect place to keep asking “why” over and over again'

"I’ve learned that you must listen with utmost care to individuals you disagree with, and that understanding them is a privilege not a chore. I’ve learned that relying on my peers is not a fault, but a strength."

Aidan Black: History

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'I’ve realized that activism takes many forms'

"Meeting different people from the Cornell campus and beyond has helped me to recognize the merit of simply being present — people appreciate someone who is willing to put themselves out there. Plus, the old adage is true. When you are constantly meeting new people, you really do learn something new every day."

Parker Piccolo Hill: English & Italian

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'My path is not predetermined and I am always in flux'

"Being immersed within such a rich student body, I have found that my ideas are constantly in conversation with those of my peers, and I feel as though I am always in a process of learning more about myself and those around me."

Hanako Yamasaki: Comparative Literature & Philosophy

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'I've been pushed to craft work that is both intellectually rigorous and deeply informed'

"My experience engaging with scholars across various disciplines has refined my ability to collaborate effectively within scholarship. I am grateful for the intellectual exchange and being exposed to diverse viewpoints from my peers."

Kaylani Williams: English

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Tess Lovell: English & Performing and Media Arts

'When my friends and I put on a show, it is everything to us.'

A&S Communications

Tess Lovell is majoring in English and performing and media arts.

Social Sciences

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Kendahl Wesley: Psychology & Africana Studies

'I have learned to navigate academic spaces on my own terms'

A&S Communications

… Africana Studies and Research Center … Psychology … Kendahl … to academic excellence and intellectual innovation, setting a foundation that has influenced Black studies …

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'I discovered the importance of asking questions'

"Not knowing something, being unsure and trying to find the answer is the best way to grow and learn. The process of seeking out the answer is just as important as the answer itself."

Rafaela Uzan: German Studies & Government

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'Pursue curiosity without constraint'

"The beauty of Cornell lies in its vastness in academics, extracurriculars, professional opportunities, social activities and more. You don’t have to choose between interests; in fact, much of my fulfillment in my college experience has come from embracing the full range of my passions and running with it, whatever direction it takes me."

Emily Hong: Economics & German Studies

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'I reviewed economic research papers written by undergraduates from all over the country'

"Through the diverse and inclusive community I found here, I learned to not only accept who I am, but also appreciate others for who they are."

Sara Yoo: Economics & Mathematics

Sciences and Mathematics

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'My mother's resilience taught me that challenges are not roadblocks'

"Problem-solving, adaptability and collaborative leadership are among the most valuable skills I gained from my Arts & Sciences education. Above all, I learned how to think critically and approach challenges from a holistic perspective."

Elizabeth Goberdhan: Biological Sciences

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'I started making connections between my classes that I never expected'

"One of the most valuable things I gained from my Arts & Sciences education is the ability to think through an intersectional lens. I honestly can’t overstate how important that’s been for me. The distribution requirements pushed me to take classes in areas I never would’ve explored otherwise, and that ended up being such a gift. It helped me realize how connected everything really is."

Mana Setayesh: Science and Technology Studies

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'I've worked on research projects in both organic and inorganic synthesis'

"Dream about what you hope to accomplish and recognize that there aren’t ceilings when it comes to ambition. Notice and pursue the beneficial feelings associated with triumph, reaching for them even if fear surrounds you."

Aria Mingo: Chemistry and Chemical Biology

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'I’ve been able to serve Guam from my college dorm room'

"This work is incredibly meaningful to me because it has allowed me to make a tangible impact on my community — even from thousands of miles away at Cornell."

Ethan Gumataotao: Chemistry and Chemical Biology