'I've developed great connections with faculty and have been inspired by their insights'

Lindy Liu

History of Art & German Studies
Shanghai, China

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

My main extracurricular is my involvement in the Chinese Students & Scholars Association (CSSA). I moved forward from member to department chair and vice president for internal affairs, managing the events that expand Chinese culture to the wider Cornell community, while developing partnerships with other clubs and organizations. CSSA is very professional in event planning and external connections and I have practiced many professional skills and fulfilled my goal to contribute to the Chinese community at Cornell.

What Cornell memory do you treasure the most?  

I treasure all the conversations I have had with my professors and the moments with my Cornell friends the most. I am very glad that I am in two very small departments where I have developed great connections with the faculty and have always been inspired by their insights. I also enjoy the social environment where me and my peers always support each other.       

What have you accomplished as a Cornell student that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of my accomplishment at my department where I always spread the knowledge of my department to the wider Cornell community. As a department outreach coordinator, I propose social media plans that could invite more students to the department activities. As a member of the Humanities Scholars Program, I discuss my major topic with students and faculties in other fields and gain insights from their experiences. As an Arts & Sciences Student Ambassador, I help new students with academic advice and useful resources.

How have your beliefs or perspectives changed since you first arrived at Cornell? 

I realized that I am more interested in analytical than creative work so I transferred from fine art to art history. I also found myself being more flexible and logical in problem-solving and complex tasks. With an exposure to various areas, I became more confident in providing suggestions to people from other fields and gaining their perspectives at the same time.

What are your plans for next year? 

I am going to Harvard Kennedy School for a master's degree in public policy.

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 2024.