Legacy/Family Relationship to college?

Applying to College
1

I am curious what you guys think about this and if this may, in any way, improve my chances at Cornell (RD, Psychology)

My mother’s side of the family is from the area of Ithaca and by records, has lived there for hundreds of years (before the foundation of Cornell even). My cousin has gone there (Class of 2002, summa cum laude, 4th in her class; very active in alumni network) as well as her husband, and four of his family members. I even had my cousin write me a letter of recommendation, which talks of both her experience and my potential to succeed there. My mom’s aunt also worked there during the 70’s and 80’s and was apparently well-known and well-liked by staff members at the time.

Will this help in any way? I mentioned everything in my application except for my cousin’s husband and my mom’s aunt.

Thanks :slight_smile:

2

No help.

3

Every school defines legacy differently but it is typically parents and grandparents at the most (generally does not include cousins) and most certainly doesn’t include people who live in Ithaca and/or worked at the school. You will need to get accepted on your own merits.