-Magdalen Lindeberg
Recruitment events for the five SIPS graduate fields were underway when Winter Storm Kade arrived early morning, February 7, bringing up to 13 inches of ice and snow accumulation to Ithaca. As road conditions deteriorated, traffic into and out of town came to a standstill as stalled vehicles filled the roads and ditches; among them, a bus and vans carrying visiting prospective students to campus.
But recruitment efforts were undaunted by either the two plus hours on a stranded bus or Cornell’s eventual closure for the day. Thanks to the heroic efforts of many including Adam Bogdanove, Michael Mazourek and GFAs Alicia Caswell, Karin Jantz, and Josh Balles, the prospective students were shuttled back to the Marriott Hotel from the stranded bus. With the assistance of many SIPS graduate students, zoom and in-person interviews were set up in public spaces around the building and the day concluded with a well-attended happy hour at the hotel followed by dinner at various locations.
Prospective students expressed real enthusiasm for their experience and gratitude to all those who came together to meet the challenges of the storm. Particular thanks go to the many graduate students involved in organization and communicating an enthusiastic and welcoming spirit to the visitors. It was a memorable event for all involved! See all photos (contributed by Adam Bogdanove)
