Arif Mohamed

I come from a valuable and caring family in Queens, New York, where I’ve been raised with strong values of hard work, integrity, and service. As a first-generation student from a brown Guyanese background, I’ve always embraced the rich culture and traditions of my heritage, while striving to build my own path. Growing up, I balanced academics, leadership roles, and family responsibilities, such as caring for my younger siblings, which contributed in teaching me resilience, accountability, and compassion. These experiences have shaped my desire to make a meaningful impact on my community and drive me to seek opportunities where I can lead, innovate, and inspire others.

• I’ve excelled academically with a 4.0 GPA and honors in subjects like English and Global History, while also challenging myself in college-level AP courses.
• As Co-President of the National Honor Society, I’ve led community service projects and initiatives to unite and inspire my peers.
• One of my proudest achievements was leading a team to develop an innovative health-focused app in a "Shark Tank" competition - 1st Place
• These experiences reflect my dedication to improvement, leadership, and positive impact.

• Awarded 'Best Speaker' in AP Language and Composition
• National Honor Society Certificate of Membership
• English Language Arts Honor Roll Award
• Physical Education Academic Achievement Award
• Global History Academic Achievement Award

• Cornell, you are more than just an institution—you are a place where creativity, ambition, and community come together to shape the future. These are the values that define me, and I can already envision myself thriving here. I’m a student driven by curiosity and a deep desire to uplift others, and I see your commitment to nurturing leaders who will change the world as perfectly aligned with my goals. From leading school initiatives to bringing my community closer through events I’ve organized; I’ve learned that collaboration and initiative are at the heart of true progress—values I know Cornell holds dear.
• What draws me most to Cornell is your incredible diversity—both in education and in the students who call your campus home. The world succeeds through cultural richness and innovative thinking, where the best solutions come from many different perspectives combined. I’m excited to immerse myself in this vibrant environment, to deepen my academic passions, and to engage meaningfully with my peers. Cornell is the place where I will grow into the leader I’m striving to be—one who is not only focused on personal success but just as committed to lifting others along the way.