The Carol Tatkon Center: A Great Resource at Cornell

This week, Ambassador Meredith explains why the Carol Tatkon Center is such a useful resource for students at Cornell.

By Meredith Chagares ’19, History major

One of my favorite resources on campus is the Carol Tatkon Center located in Balch Hall on North Campus. “The Tat,” as it is nicknamed, offers free support services and resources for first-year students and is conveniently located on most first-year students’ way to and from campus. The Tat is staffed by upper-level students who share their experiences and advice, aiding in the transition to Cornell life. When I was a freshman, undecided about my major, I was unsure about which classes I should take to explore my main academic interests and to fulfill Cornell's requirements. I walked into the Tat and a calm and friendly senior sat with me and discussed her opinions on what would be a good schedule based on my interests, her personal experience, and the experiences of her peers. 

The Tat allowed me to receive helpful advice just by walking in on my way home from class. The Tat offers free academic and personal support services such as tutoring for specific classes (such as chemistry, calculus, economics, and world languages), a writing center, drop-in counseling services, meditation, professional headshots, resume critique, student panels, career fairs, and study-skills and learning strategies tutorials. The Tat also hosts interesting speakers as well as fun events (such as holiday parties, study breaks, trivia, and “post prelim fun”). One of my favorite events at the Tat is Fun Fridays @ Tatkon, which offers games, snacks, and hot chocolate on Friday afternoons, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the Tat and to make new friends. The services offered by the Tat are important in student academic success and in maintaining personal and mental health. Events at the Tat are publicized through a weekly e-newsletter received automatically by all first-year students. The Tat is also a terrific study spot. It is open until 11:00 p.m. most days and offers various tables and group study rooms, as well as a café and printers. The Carol Tatkon Center is a one-stop shop for support with classes, jobs, academics, and making new friends – a home-base for all first-year students!  Here is a link to the Carol Tatkon Center’s website for more information and programming: https://ccengagement.cornell.edu/new-student-programs/tatkon-center-first-year-students