'My classes reshaped the way I think about justice, morality and what it means to be a part of humanity'

Alyssa Mendez: Sociology

5/15/2025

Alyssa Mendez

Sociology
Staten Island, N.Y.

Why did you choose Cornell?

As a first generation college student, I never believed a school like Cornell was in the cards for me, but my parents were my biggest champions. They always encouraged me to dream big and never settle for less. However, when applying to different colleges, despite my achievements there was still a sense of doubt that maybe I was not as capable or exceptional as they thought I was. This doubt was further perpetuated by my college guidance counselor pushing me to apply to schools far less competitive than Cornell, implying that Cornell was, once again, unattainable. This all changed when I received my acceptance letter. It was as if all of that self doubt and noise in my head had paused for a moment, and I truly felt seen. To me, Cornell was a land of untapped potential, endless opportunities and somewhere where I now know that I belong. Committing was a no brainer because if Cornell could take a chance on me by accepting me, then I knew I had to take a chance on myself as well and attend.

What is your main extracurricular activity and why is it important to you?

My main extracurricular activity is serving as president of the Arts & Sciences Ambassadors. In this role, I have the opportunity to inspire all different types of prospective students to apply to Cornell. In the College of Arts & Sciences especially, we truly embody the Cornell motto of “any person, any study.” As an ambassador, I’m surrounded by a diverse group of students with a wide range of interests and passions. These are people who not only make me proud to attend this university, but who constantly remind me of the value of different perspectives. Through this role, I’ve connected with prospective students from all kinds of backgrounds, helping them navigate the college search process. While it can be stressful, I love reminding them that it’s also an exciting and transformative time in their lives. One of the most meaningful parts of this experience has been returning to my own public high school to speak with students from modest backgrounds. I want them to know that, no matter how unattainable it may seem, Cornell is absolutely within reach. The university recognizes hard work, dedication and potential, and they may belong here just as much as anyone else.

What Cornell memory do you treasure the most?

One of my most treasured memories at Cornell is from my freshman year, during a time when I was feeling especially homesick and overwhelmed. It had been a tough week, and I was missing the familiarity of home more than ever. My best friend and I then decided some fresh air and a walk around Bebe Lake would cheer me up, but as we got there, it started to lightly rain. Then, instead of going back inside, we stood there in the warm air and light rains and started dancing and listening to music. At that moment, I realized that despite how out of place and alone I had felt earlier, I was beginning to build something real here. I realized that I now had a new life for myself filled with exciting friendships, a sense of belonging, and a community that truly made Cornell feel like home.

Who or what influenced your Cornell education the most?

Professor Joseph Margulies is the person who has influenced my Cornell education the most. I had the privilege of taking two of his courses, the famous Crime & Punishment, and another on the politics of education in the context of a national identity surrounding 9/11. In each of these two courses, he emphasized active learning and understanding as opposed to simply teaching content from a textbook. He not only wanted us to know things, but to truly understand them and at times, question everything we hold to be true and and all of our preconceived ideas. He reshaped the way I think about justice, morality, and what it means to be a part of humanity. As someone with a future in law, Professor Margulies has solidified my belief in rehabilitation through his motto “ there are no monsters, only monstrous actions,” and has set the foundation for the type of advocate and lawyer I want to be, addressing our world of complexity with empathy.

If you were to offer advice to an incoming first year student, what would you say?

My advice to an incoming first year student would be to truly immerse yourself in all that Cornell has to offer. College is not simply just an educational experience, but a life one too. Thus, building a community and support system here is just as important as getting good grades in your classes. These next four years of your life are inevitably going to be filled with highs and lows and five years from now you will not remember your first poor grade on an assignment, but you will remember the people around who comforted you afterwards. Whether it’s in your dorm, in a class, or through clubs or sports, really put effort into finding people who you feel comfortable and safe around. Find those people who bring out the best in you, those who will celebrate you in your accomplishments and stand by you in times of need because I promise you, they will truly make all the difference.

Every year, our faculty nominate graduating Arts & Sciences students to be featured as part of our Extraordinary Journeys series.Read more about the Class of 2025.