Mishka Punjabi, Cornell University

From a young age, Mishka loved art. But this evolved in 10th grade when she  began working on a project to design a residential space for the virtually impaired. She gained  an understanding of how art and design intersect, and her passion for architecture was born. Throughout high school, she nurtured this interest through her academics, creative endeavors, leadership positions, and international competitions. Her efforts paid off recently when she was accepted Early Decision to Cornell University’s architecture program. She shares her experience and insights.

IO: Hi Mishka. Congratulations on your ED acceptance to Cornell University! What are you most excited about?

Mishka: I can’t wait to immerse myself in Cornell’s College of Architecture, Art, and Planning; I am eager to gain the comprehensive knowledge and skills that such a program offers–from design theory and history to advanced technical skills and professional practice. Beyond academics, I hope to establish a club that bridges architecture and human ecology, allowing students to engage in passion projects and research that give back to communities, just as I’ve done through my volunteering experiences. I cannot wait to be part of the Cornell community where I will have the chance to interact with professionals and alumni while building lasting friendships through Ivy League sports and Cornell’s unique traditions. 

IO: Why Cornell and what made you apply Early Decision?

Mishka: I had initially been set on studying neurology, but my passion for architecture took over after a drama competition in Shanghai that was based on creating a performance inspired by the architectural structures in China. When I began exploring universities, Cornell’s interdisciplinary approach and inclusive community immediately stood out to me as a place where I could thrive and achieve both my personal and professional goals. 

Cornell became my dream school; with that certainty, I believed applying ED would give me the best shot. The 5-year professional degree program will equip me with the tools, knowledge, and experience to turn this passion into a lifelong career of creating meaningful, impactful spaces for those who need them most. 

IO: What do you think made you stand out from other applicants? 

Mishka: I believe several aspects of my application helped me. Academically, I have always pursued challenging course loads, particularly in subjects that align with my passion for architecture: mathematics, physics, and art. My academic performance shows my ability to manage deadlines and thrive in a rigorous academic environment.

My extracurriculars were also strong and included leadership positions such as Head Girl, intense involvement in my school and local community, starting my own resin business, and securing a wide range of internships. Also, I think my passion projects were unique: designing a residential space for visually impaired adults and my research essay on creating a therapeutic and supportive care home for dementia patients. Through these, I was able to demonstrate my interest in designing for special needs with a focus on socially conscious architecture. Additionally, my contribution to winning a global competition focused on sustainability highlighted my ability to collaborate with others, think critically, and contribute to meaningful, community-driven projects. 

Lastly, the art and architecture portfolio I submitted to Cornell showcased my ability to blend artistic creativity with technical skills. It reflected not only my growth as an artist but also my passion for architecture and design. 

IO: Tell us about the portfolio you submitted.

Mishka: My portfolio featured 21 slides, carefully curated to showcase my best work. As an artist with a strong passion for working across various mediums, particularly 3D art, my portfolio reflected this diversity through architectural drawings, models, and digital renderings–all of which highlight my ability to work with different materials and techniques. Additionally, I also shared my passion projects and collaborative work as the 1st place winner for a global competition. 

IO: What steps have you taken already toward attending Cornell in the fall?

Mishka: I have connected with current students and alumni to gain insights about living in Ithaca. Furthermore, I have reached out to Cornelians in the College of Architecture, as well as other colleges, to start forming relationships with future peers and potentially find a roommate. I have also begun the process of applying for my I-20 Visa and have booked hotel accommodations for move-in week in August. 

IO: Give us a sense of your college application process and timeline. 

Mishka: With a strong preference for studying in the United States, I began compiling a list of universities. Around May, I made sure to request my letters of recommendation to ensure everything was in order, and I remained diligent with deadlines to keep the process on track. Once I’d decided to ED Cornell, I began those essays in July. This was around the same time that I began drafting my Common App essay. 

Throughout the summer, I focused on all of my other early application supplemental essays, allowing me to stay organized and keep my momentum going. By August, I had finalized my UCAS personal statement, which gave me the space to concentrate on perfecting my portfolio and maintaining strong grades. A huge shout out to my Ivy Options counselor who helped me translate my experiences, passions and aspirations into my essays and other parts of my application.

IO: Having just completed your application journey, what advice do you have for students who are just starting?

Mishka: Here are my top tips:

1. Start early. Begin thinking about your essays, especially your Common App Essay and/or UCAS Personal Statement as early as possible, because you need time for edits and refinements before  the deadlines. 

2. Using a tracker or a checklist of everything that needs to be done in general and for each university helps you stay on top of everything along with other commitments. 

3. When writing essays, focus on telling your personal story and showing yourself to the admissions officers. Reflect on your passions, challenges, and what motivates you. Be candid because the universities want to get to know you and what makes you special. 

4. Stay focused on your goals. It’s normal to feel stressed, especially with multiple applications and deadlines. Some weeks feel overwhelming like you are bombarded with a billion things to do and not enough time. But take breaks, and be with people that uplift you because even a short moment with them can change your mood.