Each One, Teach One: empowering students' unique voices
Are you looking for a meaningful way to kick off your college journey? Each One Teach One (EOTO) is a special pre-orientation program on Cornell's campus designed to help you connect, grow, and feel at home before the school year even begins.
Rooted in the spirit of an African proverb—“Each One, Teach One”—this program celebrates the power of sharing knowledge and lifting each other up. The saying stems from a time when enslaved people who learned to read would teach others, passing along knowledge as a powerful act of empowerment and community.
In that same spirit, this program is all about building a supportive space where we can learn from one another, celebrate our differences, and create meaningful connections. You’ll hear real stories, explore your own identity, and be part of a growing community that values mentorship, unity, and growth.
If you're looking for a place to be proud of YOUR culture, YOUR background, YOUR story and a chance to start strong by sharing your knowledge with others, we’d love for you to join us.
Program dates
August 15-19
8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily (activities and breaks vary)
On and off-campus activities
This free program is capped at 15 qualifying students
Sharing knowledge
Peer led workshops: Engage in culturally relevant discussions and workshops where upperclassman and fellow first year students will guide you through navigating campus life, academic success and overcoming challenges unique to students of varying identities
Cultural storytelling: Find comfort in your first campus community where you can share your experiences, connect with others who understand your journey and build a sense of belonging through the power of YOU.
Resource sharing: Learn about on-campus resources, mentorship programs and initiatives designed to support students from a various backgrounds different from their own in order to build a foundation of support that will aide students in academic and personal growth on campus.
Knowledge sharing: From academic strategies, self care techniques or tips in thriving in a PWI, we will collaboratively celebrate one anothers wisdom and resilience within this campus community.
Celebrations: Working through deep and personal conversation requires moments of rest, relaxation and recreation. We have built in moments of shopping, swimming, games, and exploration of our local and surrounding communities.
This program runs the same time as our International Student Orientation, with many shared activities, creating wider opportunities for connection and cultural exploration.
Program goals
Mission: The mission of Each One Teach One and International Student Orientation is to provide new students from the most underrepresented communities with an informative introduction to Cornell College that meets their specific needs not covered in New Student Orientation.
Strengthen your community: This is your chance to connect with others who share your cultural background and experiences. Together, we can overcome challenges and create a space where everyone feels empowered and heard.
Learn and lead: EOTO’s philosophy is all about the sharing of knowledge through peer mentorship. Come and learn from others, share your knowledge and be a part of a legacy of empowerment and support that will last a lifetime.
Celebrate YOU: Your experiences, culture and background are valuable. This event offers a space where your identity is welcomed and celebrated. This event gives you a campus FAMILY from day one.
Questions?
Email intercultural_life@cornellcollege.edu or call 319.895.4484 with questions and we'll get you answers.