SHS senior Paul Hofmeister is the only Scituate student from the class of 2021 currently planning to attend an Ivy League school. He will be starting at Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, this coming fall, where he will be studying biology at the College of Arts & Sciences. 

Hofmeister cited many of Cornell’s attributes but said he was primarily drawn to the school due to the cutting-edge research opportunities, specifically in the area of cancer research. Hofmeister also appreciated Cornell’s location in Ithaca, which is described as a small city within a rural setting near New York’s Finger Lakes. Hofmeister said the easy access to hiking and watching the beautiful waterfalls were a deciding factor for him, as he is “not a city person at all.” 

Based on admissions standards, Cornell University is one of the most competitive universities in the country. While SAT scores were waived for this year, Cornell is extremely selective with applicants–their admissions rate was 10.9% in 2020.  Applicants are interviewed by Cornell alumni, who also answer applicants’ questions. Hofmeister stated that leadership experiences, such as being the captain of sports teams, are also considered. Hofmeister participated in many impressive extracurricular activities, including the SHS cross country, Ultimate Frisbee, and math teams. Hofmeister completed his community service hours through Study Buddies. 

Even more impressive is Hofmeister’s family background: He will be the first person in his family to receive a post-secondary education in the United States, as his parents are German immigrants and studied in Germany. 

Hofmeister said it “was a little bit surprising” being accepted to Cornell after hearing that other students at SHS were deferred or denied.  He is hoping to complete his undergraduate studies in biology so he can eventually apply to medical school.