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Cornell University

Watermargin

103 McGraw Place

Watermargin is one of the university’s cooperative residences, a collaborative and independent community governed by its student residents.

The house was established in 1947 by a group of World War II veterans with the goal of promoting understanding between people of different races and religious affiliations. Over the years, the focus has expanded to encompass all intergroup relationships. To this end, Watermargin admits members through a random lottery system to ensure diversity, and encourages its members to participate in and attend educational programs, workshops, lectures, films, and discussions exploring and celebrating difference.

All Watermargin members share in cooking, cleaning, and running the house. Students interested in learning more about the community may become a nonresidential member, or join the house’s meal plan.

For more information, contact watermargin@cornell.edu.

Community Features:

  • Open to transfer, upper-level, and graduate/professional students
  • 23 residents
  • Located at 103 McGraw Place on west campus
  • Single and double rooms, with shared bathrooms
  • A living room with a TV, two fireplaces, a ping-pong table and a foosball table, a large kitchen, and laundry facilities
  • Bedrooms contain, for each occupant: an extra-long twin bed and mattress, a closet, a dresser, a desk and desk chair, and a waste basket
  • Internet access included 

Dining options:

Watermargin has a house meal plan including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Mail and packages:

Visit the Service Center website for student mail and package information.

Questions?

Email watermargin@cornell.edu, or contact the Off-Campus, Cooperative and Graduate Living team at co-ops@cornell.edu or 607-254-8383.