Name: Jaliah Smith
Year: 2025
Major/Minor: Philosophy and Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Major
Hometown: Palmdale, California
Why did you choose Cornell?
I chose Cornell because it offered me the freedom to explore, to change my mind, and still find my place. I entered as a Development Sociology major, but after a few classes, I realized my passions lay elsewhere. Cornell created an environment where I could discover and cultivate my academic and personal interests all in one space.
How did you decide to major in FGSS?
In my freshman year, I took Philosophy of Sex and later Pleasure and Neoliberalism. These courses were transformative, and the best I’ve taken at Cornell. FGSS gave me a safe and intentional space to explore my identity and engage critically with the world. Through its interdisciplinary approach, I was able to explore topics like Black feminism in ways that challenged my thinking. It really took one class in FGSS for me to decide to make it a major. With the Socratic seminar discussions, and the freedom and creativity to structure projects how I wished, FGSS seemed like the best choice for me.
How does FGSS complement your major field of study?
FGSS complements my academic journey by providing me with a unique lens to connect with people on a deeper level. During my sophomore year, I interned for 6 months at the Department of Justice, Office of Legislative Affairs, partly because of my FGSS background. FGSS makes me stand out to employers—they see that I bring a more expansive, nuanced perspective, not just a traditional policy background. It gives me space to explain its depth during interviews and in the workplace.
It’s also what led me to Liberia, where I had the honor of conducting research with Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee. In this space, I could actively redefine what Black feminism means to me and put theory into impactful action. Without FGSS, I may not have gotten this opportunity. Being in Liberia for two and a half months allowed me to apply all of my class knowledge to the real world.
Moreover, it was a large part of why my prison book drive was successful! A now annual event that will be happening to help education in incarcerated facilities in upstate New York.
Jaliah Smith (left) with Nobel Laureate Leymah Gbowee (right)
What are your future career and/or educational goals?
I want to become a Criminal Justice or Civil Rights Attorney. With my passion for rehabilitation and systemic reform, I’m dedicated to changing the parts of our legal system that are broken and unjust.
What has been your favorite FGSS class?
Pleasure and Neoliberalism and Black Body Politics are my favorites—they both challenged and reshaped my thinking.
Favorite memory or experience at Cornell?
One of my favorite experiences has been traveling with the speech team and taking part in Homecoming and Slope Day. These are moments where Cornell’s pride shines through, and we can all celebrate together, free from the pressures of exams and deadlines. There is nothing like everyone dressing in all red to support our football team and relaxing with friends at concerts and events.
What student clubs or student organizations have you participated in?
I currently serve as the head captain and student coach for the Cornell Speech and Debate Society, where I’m ranked top 10 best speakers nationally and internationally. I also lead the Advocacy Project, running an annual campus-wide prison book drive that collected nearly 700 books for four facilities in upstate New York. I’m involved in the Cornell Parole Initiative, where I’ve successfully helped two applicants secure parole. As the Managing Editor for the Cornell Undergraduate Law and Society Review, I oversee staff writers and editors. Additionally, I’ve been a Big Red Ambassador, helping new students transition into Cornell, and I’m a Telluride Scholar, engaging in leadership opportunities within one of the most prestigious intellectual communities on campus. This house has previously hosted people like Malcolm X, James Baldwin, and Richard Feynman.
What positive advice would you give to a new student?
Don’t let anyone dictate your path. There’s no one way to succeed—your journey doesn’t have to be linear. Stop comparing yourself to others’ internships or job offers. Recognize the greatness in what you’ve already accomplished. Take a deep breath and remember: progress happens one step at a time.
