Meet Jenna

Jenna prepares for a future in medicine with the College of Human Ecology’s multidisciplinary approach to learning, and is able to focus on her passion of supporting children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Her advice for prospective and current students: take time for yourself and, at Cornell, take advantage of the numerous libraries, classes, eateries, local businesses, natural landscapes, and people you come across each day - you never know how these commonplace interactions could change your life or way of thinking.

What clubs/activities are you involved with on campus?

In addition to being part of the Human Ecology Ambassadors and Raising Education Attainment Challenge, I am a Resident Advisor on North Campus, a campus tour guide with Visitor Relations, and a research assistant.

Why is the College of Human Ecology a great fit for you?     

The College of Human Ecology is a great fit for me because it prides itself on being multidisciplinary. In my human development classes, I'm learning about individual experiences across the lifespan from the perspectives of biology, neuroscience, psychology, education, economics, and law. All of these disciplines come together to give me a more well-rounded understanding of the concepts I'm learning about, and I also get to think critically about people in the context of various circumstances and from various angles.

What is your academic passion?

Within Human Development, I am primarily focused on early child development, specifically language and social development between the ages of one and three, and how those early developmental experiences impact the individual's interactions with others and their environment over the rest of their life. I am particularly passionate about children with neurodevelopmental disorders, how their developmental trajectory is unique and informs their later growth and life experiences, and how future interventions may seek to improve their daily quality of life.

What is one piece of advice or something you wish you knew when you were applying?     

Don't be afraid to take a little time for yourself to just exist. So many of us pride ourselves on constantly being busy, and while there are so many wonderful classes and activities to get involved in, check in with yourself daily and give yourself space to breathe. Taking time for yourself is equally as important as being involved, if not more so. I enjoy yoga and meditation, so I try to do a quiet, five-minute meditation at the beginning and end of my day. This practice has given me space to process my thoughts and feelings so I do not feel overwhelmed by constantly moving from place to place throughout the rest of my day. Take a deep breath once in a while, and you, too, may find your self-awareness increasing and your enthusiasm sustained.

How did you find your friends and community at Cornell?    

Introducing yourself to the person next to you in a lecture hall or discussion section is so underrated! This is honestly how I formed many of my friendships since I was looking for people with whom to study and do homework, and who better to ask than others in my class? In addition to your classmates and people in the clubs you join, I've met many people by holding the door to a building open for them, answering a question about where in the machine the laundry detergent goes, or picking up a fork someone dropped accidentally in the dining hall. During these little moments, you'll meet those who may not be in your classes or residence hall but who may become some of your closest friends.
Where is your go-to place to eat on campus, and what is your favorite thing to order?    
I love taking myself to the Dairy Bar once in a while for a treat! The ice cream here is SO delicious, and I highly recommend it; the Dragon Day Mint Cookies and Cream is one of my favorite flavors. Initially, when I first came to Cornell, I was a little nervous and wasn't sure how many dining options would be available to me because I am vegetarian. As a nutrition minor, I am also interested in the balance of food that goes into my body, so I try to eat a variety of food groups every day to make sure I stay healthy and feel good. Cornell Dining aims to provide for its community regardless of dietary restrictions, providing allergen markers on dishes and offering multiple vegan and vegetarian options at every single cafe. I have found a variety of soups, sandwiches, salads, and more for my daily meals, and they are all delicious!

Tell us about your favorite thing to do in Ithaca.

Every Saturday or Sunday, I take the bus down to the Ithaca Commons and walk about a mile from the Commons to the Ithaca Farmers Market at its beautiful location on Cayuga Lake. There are over 80 vendors with tables bursting with fresh produce, homemade bread and cheeses, jewelry, and prepared foods to enjoy for lunch while you shop. As someone who loves to cook and support local businesses, I appreciate Cornell's proximity to this incredible farmers market, and every item I've purchased in the four years I've been at this school has been fresh and delicious.