Eri Kato '20

“When I get back next fall!”

A few weeks into every fall semester, we are bursting with excitement to see our alumnae and sing with our brothers in the Glee Club during Homecoming! This weekend, we were blessed with eighty degree weather and bright sunshine as we set up our tailgate while reuniting with alumni and introducing the new talent of the Chorus.

As a native of Tokyo, Japan, I had never experienced school spirit manifested in football and burgers before I came to Cornell. Donning my first football jersey (a mighty $44 investment at the Cornell Store just two days prior), I cherished my memories through the lens of my camera.

Although the tailgate ran for a little over 3 hours, the day left no room to rest. As soon as the barbecue was packed up, we hurried over to witness Cornell defeat Brown in an astounding 34-7 game, then to concert call in Bailey Hall where we would later collaborate with the Glee Club for their Homecoming Concert. Changing out of Big Red gear into my ECA dress and flats, I sat on the Bailey balcony and reveled in the beautiful sound of the Glee Club, enhanced by their new members.

It constantly amazes me just how much power, support, and pride we hold in this institution. With every day that passes I feel stronger calling Cornell my new home, and I have never regretted making my life-changing decision to come here. I hope to leave a legacy of music for those to come after me, and make those who came before me proud. I consider myself truly blessed and lucky to be able to be here, call myself a Cornellian, and sing with such talented, phenomenal people.