Alex Slezak

Email: afs225@cornell.edu

Major and Class Year: Brooks School of Public Policy - Public Policy, 2028

What drew you to attend Cornell for your university experience?

One of the main reasons I was drawn to Cornell was the vast array of opportunities that come with a large university. Transition from a sports focused high school of just 80 students to an institution of nearly 20,000 was certainly daunting, but I'm grateful to be in a college (Brooks) that provided a smaller close-knit environment, making the adjustment smoother.

What is your favorite spot on campus (or Ithaca more broadly), and why?

A new love of mine that I first experienced at Cornell is rowing, making the Cascadilla Boat House and Cayuga Lake one of my favorite spots around Campus---especially in the fall. I found that rowing in unison with 7 other guys on the glassy waters of Cayuga just before sunset makes all your problems go away.

What are some unique opportunities you have taken advantage of while attending Cornell?

I have been really fortunate to be able to teach my peers about subjects I'm passionate about. Recently, I took on a four-year teaching assistant position at the Brooks School for PUBPOL 2301: I'm excited to play a direct role in shaping how students engage with policy in their future environments---whatever that might be.

Outside the classroom, I've also been able to share a lifelong passion---skiing---with the Cornell community. Fortunately, with a great snow year in Ithaca, I found a way to stay connected to skiing while also sharing my passions with others in the community. As a cross-country ski instructor with Cornell Outdoor Education (COE), I had an amazing time during these winter months.

What are your aspirations professionally (or personally) once you leave Cornell?

After being on campus this year, I discovered so many professional fields I've never even considered, let alone explored. While I'm still very interested in a career in law, I'm also interested in learning more about fields such as healthcare and hospital management or business and finance.