Anthony Halmon
Africana Studies
Chicago, IL
How did any of your beliefs or interests change during your time at Cornell?
My belief about myself and education changed. The more I became informed about history and this nation, the more I saw where I fit in this society. My beliefs were challenged and strengthened at the same time. I began to learn what it meant to truly listen actively, provide constructive criticism and communicate effectively. I came in wanting to be an engineer, but it took me 2 1/2 years to realize that engineering wasn't the field that I was called to. I had to learn the hard way that I had to be true to my destiny and to the calling that was placed on my life, and my purpose began to unfold before my eyes as I pursued Africana studies.
If you were to offer advice to an incoming first year student, what would you say?
My advice would be a quote that stuck out to me as I read this prompt: "the catalyst for change is discomfort." I do not believe Cornell is built for those who want to remain complacent in life. While some may be able to get a quality education through complacency, it is change and the trying of something new that will provide Cornelians with the best college experience they will ever have. I would tell freshmen to be willing to step out of their comfort zone and to try something new and to do something different. I would also tell them "be yourself, because everyone else is taken."
What are your plans for next year; where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Next year, I will be attending the University of Chicago Divinity School. In 10 years, I see myself teaching while simultaneously owning a non-profit organization targeted at helping young African Americans in Chicago land jobs and better their lives for the bright future that waits to be unlocked.