Cornell Family Conversations

Join us for our Cornell Family Conversation Series, tailored specifically to meet the needs of families like yours! Join us for an enriching opportunity to delve deeper into the vital offices and resources available on campus, all aimed at bolstering your support for your student's journey. These engaging conversations will be conducted live, allowing you to interact directly with experts and gain invaluable insights. Can't make it to the live session? No worries! Recordings will be accessible within a week of each discussion, ensuring that you can catch up and stay informed at your convenience.

All sessions will take place at 12:00 pm ET. Click the link for each session below to register. Submit questions here.

Fall 2025

August 28 | Family Weekend 2025 | Recording

Join us for our 2025 Family Weekend Overview session, where we'll provide detailed information about the weekend's events, activities, and registration process. You'll discover what's in store for families visiting campus and learn how to make the most of your Cornell experience. We encourage attendees to bring questions about the upcoming weekend, which can be asked during the session—ahead of the registration period beginning Monday, September 8.

October 2 | Cornell History and Traditions | Recording

Every university has a story, and Cornell’s is filled with rich traditions, remarkable milestones, and a legacy that continues to shape life on the Hill. Join Cornell’s resident historian, Cory Earl, for an engaging conversation on the history of Cornell University. From the founding vision of Ezra Cornell to the traditions that define the Big Red spirit, this session will offer families a unique glimpse into what makes Cornell distinctive.

Whether you’re new to the Cornell community or returning with generations of connection, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of the history and traditions that unite students, families, and alumni.

October 14 | Mid-Semester Check-in for Families of International Students | Recording

Join us for a mid-semester conversation designed for families of international students. Cornell staff will share insights into what students may be experiencing at this point in the semester—from academic pressures and cultural adjustment to social connection and self-care—and offer practical ways families can provide support from afar. We'll also discuss upcoming milestones like course registration, finals, and winter break planning, with time for your questions.

October 16 | Get to Know Ithaca | Recording

Join us for a Cornell Family Conversation with staff from Visit Ithaca to discover all that our community has to offer. From local attractions and outdoor adventures to favorite dining spots and hidden gems, this session will help you get to know Ithaca and plan your next visit.

November 12 | Cornell Cares: Helping Families Support Students in Distress | REGISTER

Supporting a student through the ups and downs of college can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you notice signs that your student might be struggling. In this Cornell Family Conversation, staff will share how to recognize common signs of student distress and the different levels of concern, from everyday stress to more urgent situations. You’ll learn about campus resources, effective ways to encourage help-seeking, and when it may be important to ask directly about suicide. This session will offer families practical tools and strategies to feel more confident in supporting their student’s well-being while also connecting you with Cornell’s network of care.

December 3 | Understanding Sorority and Fraternity Life | REGISTER

Join us for a Cornell Family Conversation focused on Sorority and Fraternity Life at Cornell. This session is designed to help families better understand the recruitment process and the overall experience of joining a sorority or fraternity. Our panel will share insights on what the process looks like, what students can expect, and how families can best support their student during this time. We’ll also discuss the benefits of membership, including leadership opportunities, community engagement, and lifelong connections, while addressing common questions families may have.