On August 13, 2020, the Cornell Latino Alumni Association (CLAA) and the Latina/o Studies program hosted a virtual student welcome that brought more than fifty incoming freshmen, returning students, faculty, staff and alums together. Alumni panelists included Dan Domenech '92, Danya Contreras '13 and David Sandoval '99 along with current students Rocio Chanez '22, Estefania Perez '21, and Tyler Rodriguez '21. The event opened with a video of Cornell, a welcome from Cornell University President Martha Pollack followed by alumni and current students talking about their life as a freshmen, their experiences at Cornell, available resources, and words of wisdom and encouragement.Panelists reminded students to be aware of imposter syndrome. Cornell alum Danya Contreras asked students to remember that they're at Cornell for a reason, and they belong there. Freshman year will mainly consist of adjusting to classes, new study techniques and the challenge of virtual learning. Dean Corazón, Latinx Student Success Office (LSSO) advisor mentioned the Learning Strategies Center's, Learning during COVID-19 is a helpful resource for students. Tyler Rodriguez reminded students that professors are really accommodating during these times; and Rocio Chanez that having a talk with parents about class schedules and needing the quiet space for classes was crucial. Since some students may not be on campus, Estefania Perez reminded them to make sure to sign up for the virtual orientation events, Latino Studies virtual programming, and club virtual events. Cornell has many resources for Latinx students: Office of Academic Diversity Initiatives (OADI), the Latino Living Center, Latino Studies Program, and Multicultural Student Leadership Empowerment. Additionally, it also has upperclassmen that are ready to help! As David Sandoval mentioned "you are not alone"; upperclassmen already know the ropes so remember to tap into that resource. Please remember to reach out when you need help, and as Dan said, "use this as a growth experience". CLAA is glad to help with anything students may need as our mission involves Latinx student retention.
