Name: Fabiola Faroh
Year: Senior
Major/Minor: Operations Research and Information Engineering with a minor in Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Hometown: Caracas, Venezuela
1. Why did you choose Cornell?
I chose Cornell because it offered me the opportunity to explore various areas of study beyond my major and college. I wanted to be surrounded by people who come from diverse backgrounds and bring different perspectives than my own. It was important to me to be in an environment that fostered creativity and self-expression, where differences are appreciated rather than alienated. Cornell provided me with an environment not only to explore my academic interests but also my personal ones.
2. How did you decide to minor in FGSS?
I decided to minor in FGSS after taking a FWS about Gender, Race, and Technology. Although initially hesitant about getting involved in the humanities, I was very interested in learning more about how our identities affect the way we live and take in the world. I realized I would be able to apply this knowledge to my major field of study and understand where the field can grow to be more equitable and accessible to everyone.
3. How does FGSS complement your major field of study?
I wanted to extend my learning beyond engineering and be able to understand the ethical implications of the work I would be doing in my field. FGSS allowed me to understand how our intersecting identities affect the way we are treated and offered opportunities both in and out of the workplace. FGSS has taught me to think critically about the systems and structures that surround me and enabled me to analyze who they truly benefit and at whose expense.
4. What are your future career and/or educational goals?
My future goals are to work either in supply chain management or scheduling within TV broadcasting. I hope to be able to use the knowledge and skills I have gained through FGSS to make my field of work more equitable and accessible to others.
5. What has been your favorite FGSS class?
I will always consider both intro classes (FGSS 2010 & LGBT 2090) as my favorites because they allowed me to explore topics that personally interested me and turn them into fun and interesting projects while being able to experiment with different mediums and sources to create something non-traditional.
6. Favorite memory or experience at Cornell?
Cornell has allowed me to come out of my comfort zone and be able to make new friends and try new things every year. Some of my favorite memories include celebrating Homecoming, sledding down the slope, and Slope Day!
7. What student clubs or student organizations have you participated in?
I’ve been a part of Big Red Heads since sophomore year, serving as a member of the Finance and Operations Team and later on as President. I’ve also worked as a Student Intern for the FGSS and LGBT programs for 3 years!
8. What positive advice would you give to a new student?
Explore and be open to new experiences. Whether it's exploring campus, taking unusual classes, or joining a club, college is a great opportunity to discover what your interests are and learn more about who you are as a person.
