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Cornell University

International Services

Office of Global Learning

Prepare

  • For Students

Prepare 2021

August 10–11 and 17–19

Recordings of our program events are available to view below.
August 10

Questions? Email us!

What is Prepare?

Prepare is the Office of Global Learning's pre-orientation program for incoming undergraduates. We encourage all new international undergrads—first-year students and transfers—to attend, meet new people, and learn about Cornell and Ithaca before Cornell's new student orientation.

Be sure to take the time to learn about Cornell's COVID-19 move-in and orientation plans as soon as you can. We're happy to talk with you about any questions or concerns before or during Prepare.

Prepare gives you an early start on your Cornell experience. You'll learn about resources to help you settle in at Cornell and make friends from around the world. We can't wait to meet you!

Prepare 2018 participants asking questions at panel discussion
Prepare 2018 volunteers answer participant questions

Time to Adjust

University orientation for the entire first-year class begins at the end of the week before classes start. Prepare gives you a chance to learn more about life as a college student in the U.S. before plunging into other orientation activities and academic tasks.

You’ll learn about the U.S. academic system, Cornell's student life and traditions, and campus opportunities for the international community. Prepare gives you a chance to ask questions and discuss issues with staff from across the university, including academic departments, health services, and campus police.

Prepare 2019 students hiking at Taughannock Falls
Prepare 2019 students at Cayuga Lake

Meet Upper-Level International and U.S. Students

International and U.S. upperclassmen will join Prepare sessions to answer all of your questions and give you the inside track on campus life. They will serve as your mentors and guides to life as an international student at Cornell.

Join us for a smooth start to your Cornell career and the chance to make friends for a lifetime.

What is the difference between Prepare and Cornell freshman orientation?
Prepare is a pre-orientation program for incoming international undergraduate students. Prepare gives you a chance to meet other international students and get your bearings before you begin campus orientation activities and academic tasks.
Can I attend Prepare if I’m a graduate student?

Prepare is for undergraduates only. If you are an international graduate or professional student, you can attend International Graduate and Professional Student Orientation. In addition, be sure to check with the Graduate School and your field of study to see what other programs you can attend.

Can I attend Prepare if I’m an international transfer student?

Yes! Prepare is open to all new international freshmen and transfer students.

Can I attend Prepare if I’m an American who has been living abroad?

American students who have been living abroad and would like extra time to adjust to life in the United States are welcome to attend Prepare.

Where will I stay during Prepare?
If you signed up for in-person Prepare, you will receive housing assignments from Cornell Housing before the start of the program and will be able to arrive on the date and time indicated on your registration. Housing will not be offered for virtual-only Prepare. If you would like to register for our virtual-only option, please register by August 1.

More Questions? Email us.

 

Next Up: Orientation for Graduate and Professional Students