Songyu Ye
Mathematics & Computer Science
Northbrook, Ill.
What was your favorite class and why?
My favorite class was Chinese 2209: Intermediate Chinese for Heritage Speakers. Professor Su really brought forth in her lectures the importance of recoginizing Chinese heritage. Through the course, I gained a much stronger appreciation of my cultural background and developed a more personal connection to my family’s history and traditions.
What is your main extracurricular activity and why is it important to you?
I love traveling and visiting other countries, and it’s probably the activity I cherish most outside of academics. I really enjoy being in a new environment, navigating unfamiliar spaces and encountering different ways of thinking and living. Travel invites a kind of spontaneity and openness that I really value. This summer, I’m planning to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in northern Spain — something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I’m also very excited to be attending mathematics conferences in Poland and Switzerland.
What have you accomplished as a Cornell student that you are most proud of?
I’m especially proud of the work I did on my senior thesis under the guidance of Professor Tara Holm. With her mentorship, I explored some fascinating problems in symplectic geometry. That experience deepened my interest in mathematical research and solidified my decision to pursue a Ph.D.
How have your beliefs or perspectives changed since you first arrived at Cornell?
I’ve learned a lot about what I truly value — in both people and ideas. My time at Cornell helped me clarify my priorities, and I’ve grown more comfortable being honest with myself about what really matters.
Who or what influenced your Cornell education the most?
During my time at Cornell, I had the great fortune of receiving mentorship from two outstanding advisors and mathematicians: Professor Tara Holm and Professor Allen Knutson.
Professor Holm redefined my expectations of what academic support can look like. Her unwavering faith in me and her consistent encouragement were instrumental in my growth as a mathematician.
Professor Knutson also played a tremendous role in shaping my journey. His passion for mathematics and his generous, kind spirit were incredibly inspiring. His support and enthusiasm deeply enriched my experience at Cornell.
Every year, our faculty nominate graduating Arts & Sciences students to be featured as part of our Extraordinary Journeys series.Read more about the Class of 2025.
