Getting started

From hands-on learning and student organizations to seminars and special events, our community fosters collaboration, curiosity and leadership.

Orientation

Our comprehensive orientation program will help you make connections and answer your lingering questions so that you can start your Cornell career off with confidence.

First-Year Seminar

As a first-year DNS student, you will take a seminar to support your transition to Cornell. Through discussions, reflections and interactive activities, you will meet new people, explore your identities and goals, build on your skills, and engage with diverse perspectives. Enrollment is based on your home college. Students enrolled in CHE take HE 1800 and students in CALS take NS 1800; both classes share some joint sessions. The seminars focus on growth, learning and community to creates a unifying experience for all new DNS students.

Advising

At Cornell, academic advising goes beyond course requirements to help students grow, explore and achieve their goals. Our DNS professional advisors provide personalized support throughout your academic journey, from course planning to overcoming challenges.

In addition to DNS advising, you have access to the broader Advising Support Network, which may include faculty and advisors from your home college, career development offices and the Health Professions Advising Center. This network is designed to help you thrive. Whether you want to clarify your academic goals, engage in research, or explore careers, regular meetings with advisors will help you make the most of Cornell’s opportunities.

Welcome to Cornell's community of scholars!

Learn more about graduate studies in DNS.

Explore the graduate student experience at Cornell and in Ithaca.

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Opportunities beyond the classroom

We bring in renowned experts from around the globe to enrich learning and discussion.

The compelling, engaging content you will explore in the classroom as a DNS student translates into real-world opportunities like research, fieldwork, and internships, all designed to deepen your understanding and support your future career. These hands-on experiences help you connect theory to practice, develop key skills, and gain valuable experience for their career or graduate school:

Each May during Cornell Commencement, we hold a ceremony to honor our graduating undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. The event, traditionally held in Bailey Hall, brings together faculty, staff and guests — including family, friends and loved ones — to celebrate your achievements. A short reception follows the ceremony continuing the celebration.

DNS student organizations

NGSO is the official student organization for graduate students in the Division of Nutritional Sciences. Come to one of our events or all and build fellowship and connections.

 

GHSAB works to create opportunities for students in the Global and Public Health Sciences major and Global Health minor. We build community through campus events, community engagement, mentorship, and fostering alumni relationships. 

We are an exceptional group of sophomores, juniors, and seniors across all three DNS majors who support first-year students in DNS. Our student advisors provide helpful enrollment information, support students in understanding their requirements, and can offer feedback about course choices based on personal experiences. Email us to learn more.
 

The DNS Student Services Advisory Board brings together DNS undergraduate students from all class years, majors and home colleges to help shape our student experience. Members provide feedback, generate ideas and collaborate with DNS staff to enhance services, communications and events focused on undergraduates. This group meets during the academic year to ensure student voices are heard while working on meaningful projects. A new group is recruited each academic year. For more information, email dnsstudentservices [at] cornell.edu