Transferring in a Pandemic

While quarantine was, for many, a time in which people came together (virtually) attempting to regain a sense of normalcy of a pre-COVID life, my quarantine was spent preparing to enter an entirely new reality. Applying to transfer to Cornell during the Spring 2020 semester seemed straightforward, and I had anticipated that, if admitted, I would begin a usual semester as one of the hundreds of transfer students Cornell admits each year. 

After receiving my long-awaited acceptance letter to Cornell, sprinkled into the overwhelming excitement and relief was a hint of anxiety. The unknowns in every aspect of life that already existed in early May were now mixed with the expected nervousness of starting a new school. At the peak of the initial lockdown, I eagerly asked my parents to partake in a four hour trek to view the Ithaca campus before making the official decision and sharing the news. 

Entering the familiar and comforting yet vast and expansive campus was overwhelming in the best way. While there was clearly a lack of students and the regular rumble of Cornellians partaking in the limitless array of endeavors, the energy of the campus still maintained its distinct charm that I had longed for since the beginning of my high school experience.

When the time came to finally move into my Collegetown apartment, I was prepared for a difficult semester. Having a strong community of transfer and returning students and the strong COVID-19 action plan from the school have allowed me to thrive in the academic and social environment of Cornell. This past year has allowed me to expand out of my comfort zone and make the best of the unique situation we have all been dealt. I am forever grateful for the unique lessons and experiences I have learned throughout these past months, and look forward to continuing my educational journey as a proud Cornellian.

By Lauren Baldinger, Cornell University