What are Learning Where You Live courses?
An initiative of the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, Learning Where You Live (LWYL) courses are specially designed courses taught on North Campus and West Campus. They are small, seminar-style classes that are offered for one credit and graded on an S/U basis. They focus on building relationships with faculty, innovative teaching, and fascinating topics. All LWYL courses are grouped under the subject code UNILWYL.
Some recently offered courses:
North Campus
- Sauteed Science and Edible Engineering
- Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon
- Pioneering Sustainable Change in the Real World
- Nature and Your Wellbeing
West Campus
- Socially Just Leadership Development
- Bethe Ansatz: What Makes a Fulfilled Life?
- Cook Conversations: Bridging Self, Community, and World
- Dialogue Across Political Difference
You will love the classes
“I loved the intimate and welcoming feel of the course. The smaller class size and having discussions over dinner was incredible and this was my favorite class that I have experienced at Cornell so far.”
You can explore an interesting subject outside of your intended field of study
“It provided me with the opportunity to learn about a topic that interested me that was outside of my major. It was also a low stress environment where we could comfortably learn without it negatively impacting the amount of time I put into my other classes.”
You will be able to develop strong relationships with faculty and peers
“It was a lot more personal and it is the closest I have gotten to a professor. We had dinner every class, which was very comfortable and welcoming. It didn’t feel like a class.”
LWYL courses are designed to create meaningful and enjoyable learning
“It was more discussion based and relaxed – it was much better than other courses. I wanted to learn more for myself and not a grade.”
LWYL courses reinforce Cornell’s commitment to intellectual exchange, curiosity, and exploration
“I valued the fact that it wasn’t simply a lecture or lesson from the professor, but rather an intellectual exchange among the students. We all had the ability to form and express our own opinions, and as a result got to hear and consider many viewpoints.”
Course Spotlight
Wednesdays 3:30-5:30pm, 7W2
Locations throughout campus
NATURE AND YOUR WELLBEING
Taught by Sonja Skelly, Cornell Botanic Gardens and Plant Sciences, and Jennifer Fee, Cornell Health
From hidden gardens to majestic gorges, students will explore nature’s wonders every week, building their toolkit of resources and knowledge about nature and well-being, exploring cultural perspectives on nature, and dismantling barriers to time in nature. With studies showing that nature boosts focus and reduces stress, expect this class to be an educational breath of fresh air. Whether a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a nature newbie, be ready to foster your connection with nature!
Bi-weekly Thursdays 7:00-8:50PM
RPCC 205
EXPLORING HIP HOP HISTORY & CULTURE
Taught by Ben Ortiz, Cornell Hip Hop Collection
Students will examine Hip Hop’s trajectory-from a 1970s grassroots community-based phenomenon in the Bronx, to a force that continues to shape music, fashion, and other aspects of pop culture and society today-and learn about the multicultural, cross-generational dimensions of Hip Hop’s evolution, while sharing their own perspectives and experiences. Through reading, listening, and viewing a variety of media, and guided discussions with visiting artists and community members, students will explore the history of Hip Hop’s core artistic elements and its cultural perspectives and contributions.
Wednesdays 7:00-7:50PM
RBG Hall
FASHIONING JUSTICE: RBG AND THE ARTS
Taught by Kristen Underhill, Law School, and Denise Green, Human Centered Design
This course invites students to explore the intersections of fashion, law, and justice through the legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a Cornell alumna, ’54, whose influence transcended the courtroom. Through readings, discussion, and hands-on collaboration, students will examine Ginsburg’s life and legacy, consider linkages between fashion or artistic expression and justice, and read segments of legal cases that are pivotal to fashion law.
Frequently Asked
Can I take a LWYL course even if it is not in my department or college?
Yes! These courses are designed to be general interest courses available to all undergraduates, although some do reserve some seats for specific class years or residences.
What is the workload in a typical LWYL course?
These courses have been specifically designed to be highly interactive learning experiences. Common assignments include readings in the popular press and reflections, although individual assignments vary by course.
What if I have questions about a specific LWYL course?
You are strongly encouraged to reach out to the faculty directly. They are ready and excited to communicate with you about the course and answer any specific questions you may have.
Still have questions?
Feel free to contact Stacy Kesselring (sk866) or Ethan Stephenson (evs24)