Fun times at Cornell

Introduction
Cornell is a huge school. It might be hard to adjust to at the beginning, esp. if you are from somewhere outside the East Coast or came from a small school. You don't receive a lot of individual attention in your classes, and it's really up to you to make the best of the academics and social scene that Cornell has to offer.

Campus Life and Social Life
Again, I would say that you have to go out of your way to make the best of your social life at Cornell. There are definitely those kids that stay in and study all weekend; but at the same time, there are those kids that love to party and are out all the time. I would say that the frat/sorority scene dominate the social scene. You might feel a little left out if you choose not to RUSH and join the Greek scene if you consider yourself social. Considering the very hard IDing policy at the bars, the frat parties are extremely popular places for underclassman. Advertisement
Academics
Since Cornell is such a large school, more often than not, the TAs run the classrooms (especially true for your freshman and soph. years). I would say that the professors are accessible if you do want to see them, but they often encourage you to see the TAs first. The TAs often have a huge influence on your grade, even if the TA is only a year older than you. Despite this fact, I suggest going out of your way to see the professor b/c so few people do--they are often the most helpful and do have the very final say on your grade!
The workload is pretty heavy. Obviously for some schools it's worse than others (engineering is really heavy). However, I find that most people find it manageable, but it's really up to you to budget your time. Those people who chose to play more than work suffered the academic consequences.

Student Body
Basically, the "typical" Cornell is from New York, fairly well-off, and smart, and not necessarily the nicest (in my opinion). Also, be prepared for a huge Long Island population. Being new to New York, it was difficult to adjust to this at first but I found that the school is big enough so that everyone adjusts...it's just a matter of finding your niche.

In Closing...
It's freezing in the Winter (esp. Jan. Feb.), so get warm clothes! There is lots of walking so be prepared. Also, realize you really are in the middle of no where. Syracuse is the closest city and it's still an hour away. It's not the most accessible place in this respect.

And finally, great food : )