Cornell University students are approaching the 2024 election season with energy, curiosity, and an eagerness to engage in nuanced political dialogue. After attending the Republican and Democratic national conventions, a group of students from the Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy reflected on the wide range of views they encountered, many of which extended beyond their parties’ platforms.
Kathryn McGinnis, a doctoral student in public policy who led the student trips, noted that while the scripted speeches were prominent, it was the informal conversations with attendees that revealed diverse opinions and ideas. “It was enlightening to talk with friends about how they believe the country should move forward,” she said, emphasizing the significance of open discussion among students from different political backgrounds.
Students attending the conventions found themselves engaged in critical debates, many of which challenged their preconceived notions. Anna Cecilia Fierro, a public policy major who attended both conventions, said, “You definitely encounter people with completely different political views. It’s interesting to listen and understand their perspective instead of reacting immediately.”
Increasing voter participation on campus
Cornell Votes, a nonpartisan student group supported by the David M. Einhorn Center for Community Engagement, has been leading efforts to increase voter turnout. With unprecedented enthusiasm this semester, they have mobilized numerous student organizations to register voters and educate their peers. Erik Lapidus, a biological sciences major and community engagement liaison for Cornell Votes, shared that his passion for voting was shaped by his parents’ experiences emigrating from authoritarian countries. “So many people fought for this right, and we’re finally getting to participate,” he said.
Another group, the Cornell Policy Group (CPG), focuses on bipartisan policy advocacy. Lilia Mitra, the group’s advocacy director, emphasized their commitment to issue-focused dialogue. As the election approaches, CPG has developed guides for key races to encourage informed and thoughtful voting among students.
Bringing convention experiences back to campus
McGinnis and Fierro both expressed their excitement to bring the momentum from the conventions back to Cornell. “You feel hopeful for the political process and want to mobilize others to vote,” McGinnis said.
In addition to campaign activities, students like Willy Swenson have found academic inspiration to vote. Enrolled in the course “Taking America’s Pulse,” Swenson learned to design unbiased public opinion surveys, gaining insight into Americans’ diverse perspectives. “It’s eye-opening to see so many people’s opinions,” he said. “I do plan to vote now—I think everyone should.”
Cornell students continue their efforts as the voter registration deadline in New York approaches. For more information on voting resources, students can visit Cornell Votes’ website.
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