American Studies Program | American Studies Program

The American Studies Program offers an interdisciplinary engagement with what America means in the United States and in a global context. Faculty encourage students to look at the meaning and reality of the evolving United States as a question still in need of answering and as an experiment still in process, not as a dream fully realized. We use multiple perspectives and methodologies and require that students synthesize knowledge in ways that develop the skills needed for rigorous, complex analysis.

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American Studies News

Learn & travel with Cornell alumni, faculty this summer

A&S faculty will lead many courses on campus and join educational vacations as part of Cornell Adult University.

The ‘great replacement’ theory rises again, ending in tragedy

History shows that ethnic and racial diversity has proved to be renewal, not replacement, writes Glenn Altschuler in Washington Post commentary.

The University Chorus Makes Beautiful Music

Originally known as the Women’s Glee Club, the group will celebrate its centennial at Reunion ’22.

Grateful to be together: Meet the extraordinary class of 2022

Hear about the Cornell experiences of some of the amazing students in our graduating class.

History Brothers: A Chat with Evan Earle ’02, MS ’14, and Corey Earle ’07

Steeped in Big Red lore since childhood, they ponder their favorite artifacts, what Ezra would think of today’s University, and more.

'I learned to ask questions from curiosity rather than a need to be right'

Kathryn Stamm is a Literatures in English and American Studies major.

'I saw how law is critical to ensuring a more equitable world for all'

Ashley Ramynke is an American studies major.

Student-librarian partnership makes history

The inaugural RAD Public History Fellows have been digging deep into library archives and bringing their discoveries to light in creative ways – from social media posts to displays of artifacts and tours of library exhibits.

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Student Spotlight: Michelle Fleurantin '17

An American Studies and Sociology double major, Michelle Fleurantin says Professor Sabine Haenni "was one of the most significant influencers of my Cornell education. Before taking her Introduction to American Studies course, I struggled to find a major that encapsulated my academic interests. She showed me how American Studies would provide me with an interdisciplinary education that would change my world view and prepare me to be a well-rounded problem-solver."

Click here to read more about Michelle.