Transferring is probably one of the two most crucial time in college life as a student, with the remaining one is finding a proper job after graduating. Since long I have been yearning to go into Cornell University when transferring. That time I only knew that Cornell is one of the prestigious Ivy League institutions. On my last semester at Community College, finally I have to go through the process of transferring. That included choosing the right university, keeping updated with the deadlines, fulfilling all requirements, and also writing so-called personal statements that is said to be the most important part of University admission. At first, I thought I was doing everything with enough vigor and excitement, but it seemed that the entire process is really time-consuming and stressful. I believed that there were times when I didn't do it wholeheartedly.

It was until I have a thought of visiting Cornell. I think I should know better of the university that I am applying to. I contacted my two of my female friends that are Cornellians to tell them my intention of visiting them and the campus. Shortly, I was there, in Ithaca, during Spring break. First impression, "Where on earth have I ended at?" when the greyhound that took me to Ithaca cruising on highway of upper-state New York. I mean, I can see this prairie covered with white untouched show piling up beautifully with mountains on the background. Well, my overreaction may be caused by me living in Philadelphia. A big city, high criminal rate, and is really dirty. I admit it has been a long time since I come to such a beautiful place. Later I was told that I was supposed to have seen cows along the way if I were there when it is warmer.


















So, here I am. I was just simply stunned. First impression that came to my mind was: huge, gigantic, massive... Well, I believe they are not suitable phrases for the campus, but I do know that Cornell is really big and, stunningly, beautiful. It's just pretty. And it seems that the size is like one of a small city.

After several minutes trapped in my own world, I came back to my senses and followed the direction to The Biotech Building where the Informational Session was supposed to be held. The presenter was one of the transfer advisor whom I contacted by email and phone, Ms. Chandra Joos, so she knew me when I introduced myself. Other students, who were all seniors in high school and accompanied by their parents, didn't seem to have contacted her (maybe because they are going to apply as a freshman and they may have contacted someone other than her. Well, at least their parents might). The session was like any other informational sessions that are held when some schools present themselves and the programs.


Done with the session, I talked a little bit of my strong interest in Cornell and I excused myself for a lunch. When I arrived at the dining hall, I understand why Cornell's dining hall is winning an award. First, the food is good and a lot of varieties of food are offered there. Second, it is big and spacious, without anybody have to worry to stand around looking for a place to sit. Third, when you are done eating, you will have to dispose of the dish or bottles or anything to specifically designated place. Liquid of any kind of food's remains is going to a sink with flowing water. Bottle and can are going to recycle bin. Styrofoam is going to Styrofoam bin (?). At last, trashes are being separated to decomposable and undecomposable. Pretty cool huh?

After lunch, I finally meet with my friends. Basically we talked about Cornell and everything I would find useful for my information. I came to know about a lot of things there. How Cornell is referred as the Hottest Ivy and one of my friends, Melvany, joked about how it is not only the Cornell that is hot, but what inside are also the hottest among all *wink wink* I agree with that. lol. The girls are great. Ok, I am not trying to stray from the topic, but the girls, indeed, Cornellian girls and ladies, are great. Well, based on general opinion and definition of beauty. I said to Melvany that when she was accepted, Cornell's rate of hotness increased. She laughed. I laughed. But it is true :D

I met with my other friend, Vidia, and we talked about the future and how we want to be successful. The main topic was about capitalism and the dark side of capitalism which exploit the third worlds for our commodity and bigger profits. And yes, we didn't talk about how we should change the condition so that the third worlds can be better. We talked about how we have to find a much better way and more profitable methods to work with the third worlds. Bluntly, we are aware about the condition of the third worlds, but we honestly admit that it doesn't have to change. If it were to change, it had to change to our favor. It had to change so that we could gain more profit. Again, we don't talk and consider morality here. We are pure capitalists who think about way so that we can be a part of 2% of the population of the United States that own 50% of the total assets of the country. It IS a big dream... We don't know what we will face in the future, but as for me, at least I have a big dream and I am working towards it.

Finally, time came when I have to go back home. My visit to Cornell and meeting with my friends had motivated me. It gave me an insight on how bad I want to get admitted into this prestigious institution: The Big Red, with a really famous green salads run by the Hotel Administration Students and coffee that is really good and booming in NYC now. After that, I filled up the application with full of vigor and excitement. Different kind of excitement, because I feel that I know Cornell better now. During my visit there, I almost felt that I was already a Cornellian. Walking around campus, meeting with competitive peers who are eager to study but can balance their life with fun activities around campus and off-campus. Using the 25 cent locker at Statler Hall, which actually is only intended for students at the culinary class (blame Melva for this). Experiencing the peaceful night life in College Town, enjoying the food, although it is a little bit more expensive than average. And meeting with reindeer on-campus at night :D

I am done with the applications and I have done my best. But I am willing to do more so that I can be accepted into Cornell. Now, I am feeling a little bit more at ease, because everybody have helped me during the stressful process of applying to Cornell. I want to thank Melva and Vidia, who have been really supportive and let me stay over during my visit to campus. Thanks also to my parents and my sister that keep supporting me morally during this time. A great appreciations for Ms. Virginnia Ramirez for the evaluation she provided for me along with the recommendation letter, Mrs. Julieta Johnson for the recommendation letter, and Dr. Aleks Ilich my first boss and my friend who has provided me with a great recommendation letter :) Also thanks for Ci Cynthia and Ko Johan, along with Pastor Sonny, who have encouraged me too. The biggest thanks to Ci Mei Cristyani who has put so much effort to revise my personal statement on her vacation to Atlanta (including sending emails and calling me when she is supposed to be having fun). Also thanks to Ms. Paula White, my great and fun english teacher that I will always respect and love. At last, thanks also to Elissa ;) that keeps telling me that everything will be alright at the end.

I will get accepted and treat you all Cornellian Ice Cream. Oh yeah, they do produce their own ice cream and breed their own cows. Long live the Big Bear! :D