Congratulations on making it to the last day of classes! It has been a gift to resume in-person education and to do so without interruption. That gift has come with heightened responsibility. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do to keep our community safe. We still have a couple more weeks to go. As the exam season approaches, I wanted to share a few reminders:

• Health Matters. With a new variant of concern, it is incumbent on each of us to continue to take the precautionary measures that are proven to slow the spread of COVID-19. Remember that masks (covering the nose and mouth) are required at all times while in the building unless you are eating, drinking, or in a private room with no other occupants. Do not jeopardize your classmates’, faculty, or our staff’s ability to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones safely. Wear your masks, wash your hands, maintain a safe physical distance from others whether on or off campus, and keep your required surveillance testing appointments throughout the exam season. If you do not feel well on the day of an exam, first contact Cornell Health, then contact the Law Registrar’s Office before the exam begins to discuss options, which may include a brief deferral.
• Safety Matters. Starting at 8 p.m. this evening, law school building access is restricted to members of the law school community. Many students study at the Law School very late during the exam season. Do not prop open doors and definitely do not leave your laptop or other personal belongings unattended (a further note on laptops below). If you can’t find a friend to leave the building with you, take advantage of Cornell’s Blue Light safety resources. Be watchful and safe as you head home, particularly in Ithaca’s inclement weather. Walk like a penguin. It works!
• Computing Matters. We know how important having a working computer is, especially for exams. That is why we are so grateful to the Law School’s IT department for hosting Tech Checks before Thanksgiving to help students make sure their personal computers are in good working order. If you are experiencing technical issues, remember that your cost of attendance covers the cost of a computer. Consult with the Law School’s Financial Aid Office for more information. Additionally, you may be able to rent a laptop on campus at the Cornell Store (Macs) or Mann and Uris Libraries. Keep in mind that supplies are limited and in high demand.
• Studying Matters. Finding a quiet place to study during exams is every law student’s goal. Find a study space in the Law Library. Additionally, the following classrooms also will be unlocked 24/7 during the reading period, which begins tomorrow, Saturday, December 4th. These rooms will be available on a first come, first served basis.

• Enrollment Matters. On Wednesday, each student on the Ithaca campus received a message about the winter/spring enrollment checklist. If you will be continuing your studies as an enrolled student next semester, regardless of your location (study abroad, externship, Cornell Tech, etc.), you are required to complete the checklist by Wednesday, December 15th or you will be disenrolled for next semester.

• Wellness Matters. We end where we began: Take care of yourself during this busy and challenging time of year. To help you do so, several law school offices have planned study breaks. Copper Horse will be providing free coffee in the Commons from 8-9 AM every exam day (including Saturday, December 11th) sponsored by the Dean of Students Office. Keep an eye out for pop-up events hosted by Academic Support and Alumni Affairs & Development during the reading period. And, the Library will have several stress-reduction activities available as noted in yesterday’s Keywords. Not up for organized study breaks at the Law School? Try a 5-minute stress buster suggested by our partners at Cornell Health that you can complete on your own time from the comfort of your home.

Wishing you all the best on exams and other end-of-semester academic commitments, as well as well-deserved rest over the Winter Break.

Stay safe and be well,