Becoming A Smarter, More Confident Self

In the final post of the month, sophomore Sylvie shares how, over just a year, she came to learn a lot about herself and grew as a person through meaningful interactions with professors and peers. 

By Sylvie Kuvin '20, American Studies major

I have only been a Cornell student for a little over a year, but I already feel as though I have changed in ways I could not have predicted. Cornell has been a part of my life ever since I was little – both my grandfather and my mother speak incredibly fondly of their time spent here, and would tell me stories of Ithaca winters, late nights in Uris library, and the Dairy Bar ice cream, which is “to-die-for.”  When the time came for me to apply to college, I knew Cornell would be at the top of my list. I wanted to discover a whole new place: one that was big and beautiful, and bursting with knowledge. Cornell passed my test with flying colors, and I was absolutely ecstatic when I found out that I would be going to school here.

When I arrived on campus freshman year, I was wide-eyed and timid, unsure of my every action. I did not know where to eat lunch or how to use the printer, let alone how to navigate the enormous campus. I constantly second-guessed myself and my abilities. I thought that I was definitely not smart enough to be here, and that I would not be able to do well or make friends. However, as time passed, I figured out how to walk to my classes, and I realized that I could be a successful student here. I made amazing friends and developed a steady and fun routine. As I reflect on the short time that I have been at Cornell, I realize how much I have learned from the incredible professors and people I have met. These are the individuals who push me to think differently, and with whom I can have stimulating and thought-provoking conversations. I have developed a voice that I did not know I had, and that has made me more confident and self-assured both in- and outside of class.  Although it feels as though the person who stepped onto North Campus last year was a completely different version of myself, it wasn’t. I am definitely the same person, just a little smarter and more confident. I cannot wait for the next two and half years so that I can learn and experience more of what Cornell has to offer.