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May 18, 2009 'Most importantly, my time abroad was one of self-discovery. Living in this new and exotic environment allowed me to discover a lot about myself, what I am capable of and what I value most in life.'
Senior profile: Raymond Jacobs
Major: Plant science, plant breeding and genetics concentration; minor in business Why did you choose Cornell?
I was searching for an excellent education in plant breeding and genetics as well as a diverse and stimulating student body. I found this combination at Cornell and have never second-guessed my decision to come here. Main Cornell extracurricular activity -- why is it important to you?
Being active in Hortus Forum, the undergraduate horticulture club, the undergraduate horticulture club. It grows and sells plants on campus, raising money for educational trips to explore the many areas of plant science. Besides meeting many of my closest friends through the club, Hortus Forum has provided a hands-on approach to learning that perfectly complemented my education in plant sciences. I was elected president of the club for my senior year and have learned a great deal through the challenges of this position. Your most profound turning point while at Cornell?
During a semester abroad when I attended the University of Melbourne in Australia, I found that immersing myself in a foreign environment was extremely challenging. But then I made the rowing team; competing alongside seven Australians allowed me to connect with my friends on a level that I could not have imagined before leaving the states. Most importantly, my time abroad was one of self-discovery. Living in this new and exotic environment allowed me to discover a lot about myself, what I am capable of and what I value most in life. Who or what influenced your Cornell education the most?
As a member of Hortus Forum, I have traveled with the club to Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Great Britain, Holland, Germany and Panama. From visiting major multinational corporations to rural farms, these travels have been invaluable in learning the global nature of the industry I hope to enter. Did any of your beliefs or interests change during your time at Cornell?
Coming from rural South Carolina, I have found that the diversity of the Cornell community has opened my eyes to things I never knew existed. I have come to embrace the differences that define each individual and their holistic effect on the student body While at Cornell, what other accomplishments/activities are you most proud of?
As president of Hortus Forum, I organized a club trip to Panama for 18 individuals, which greatly improved my communication and organizational skills. The trip went flawlessly. Seeing the excitement on club members' faces was the ultimate reward for the efforts I made. What Cornell memory do you treasure the most?
The simple but genuine memories of exploring campus, cooking dinner and hanging out with great people. What are your plans for next year; where do you see yourself in 10 years?
First, a 14-month internship with Seminis Seeds in Woodland, Calif., then graduate school for a Ph.D. in plant breeding. |
