Lucy Friedman '25 shares her experiences majoring in anthropology as she reflects on her time at Cornell before graduation.
What inspired you to choose Anthropology as your major? Do you have a specific area of interest?
Coming into Cornell, I knew I would embrace the Arts and Sciences motto, "any person, any study," and anthropology allowed me to do just that. It provided the opportunity to explore my diverse interests in biology, history, ethics, and social sciences, piecing them together to reveal how they collectively shape our understanding of personhood. I attribute anthropology’s interdisciplinary nature, combined with the unique course content taught by the department's knowledgeable faculty, to helping me develop my academic passion. I am particularly driven to bridge the psychosocial and pharmacological dimensions of medicine, especially within psychiatric care. My experiences in anthropology have deepened my appreciation for how environmental influences and personal histories uniquely impact mental health, an aspect I believe should receive greater attention in modern medical practice.
Was there a particular faculty member or class that influenced you?
In the Fall semester of my freshman year, I was fortunate enough to enroll in ANTHR2245: Ancient Health and Disease with Professor Velasco. After the first week of classes, I was hooked and knew I wanted to pursue the major. 7 semesters later, it still remains my favorite course!
What accomplishments/activities are you most proud of while at Cornell?
I am particularly proud of my involvement with Cornell EARS (Empathy, Awareness, and Referral Services), where I’ve had the privilege of serving as both a peer mentor and staff trainer, providing support to fellow students. Additionally, I’m grateful for the opportunity to have conducted research under Dr. Sternberg in the Human Development department, examining characteristics attributed to wisdom. Currently, I’m working on my senior honors thesis titled "Psychodynamics vs. Psychopharmacology: Rethinking the Mental Health Crisis in University Settings," which I look forward to completing this semester.
What are your plans for the near future?
After graduation, I'll be moving to Charlottesville, Virginia, to complete my premedical coursework through University of Virginia’s Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Program while also working at the Charlottesville Free Clinic. Following that, I plan to take the MCAT and apply to medical school.
What do you think you'll miss most about Cornell/Ithaca after graduation?
I will definitely miss Ithaca’s beautiful sunsets most, especially evenings sitting on the slope with friends and watching the sky transform into pink, purple, and orange hues.
Do you have any advice for students new to Anthropology?
Take advantage of the large variety of anthropology courses here at Cornell, covering such vast topics! Don’t hesitate to explore topics outside of your comfort zone, whether it’s medical anthropology, archaeology, or cultural studies. Try to approach each class with an open mind because doing so will equip you to make unexpected connections, ultimately deepening your understanding of how cultural, historical, and social forces shape our world.
