<p>I know the Biology programs and all the related sciences are very renowned. I want to major in Biology but I haven't decided yet. Here are my questions.
Firstly, is it hard to get into those Biology programs? They are so special that they are seperated from any kinds of colleges. So I wonder if they are especially hard to be admitted. Also if I want to major in one Biological science, let say Microbiology, what should I do? Should I apply to College of Arts and Sciences or Agriculture and Life Sciences?
Secondly, is it hard to get good grades, ie B+ or above in classes? I heard that there is grade inflation but I also saw there is a thread here saying that the classes are tough.
Thirdly, are there many research opportunities and volunteering work in the medical field in the school?
I just came back from Ithaca but I forgot to ask these questions. I really really like the campus. If you have any comments, please also tell me. Thank you so much.</p>
<p>If you go for CAS, your intention to major in biology won't factor into your chances of admission. If you apply for admission to CALS you will have to choose biology as your major and will have to compete for your spot as such.</p>
<p>They are not separate from any kind of colleges. The bio major is offered in CAS and CALS. Because it is such a large major (perhaps the largest at Cornell), it has its own section in Cornell's course book.</p>
<p>As a bio major, there will be some general requirements and you have to choose one concentration (such as microbio, genetics, biochem, whatever). So you can absolutely concentrate your courses in one biological science.</p>
<p>Bio classes are tough because there are many premeds but not impossible. I think the difficulty level is very fair. </p>
<p>Lots of research opportunities. I suggest going to bio.cornell.edu and looking through the pdf of professor's research projects to see the kinds of research going on at Cornell. If you want to volunter, you can do so at Cayuga Medical Center which is a bus ride away.</p>