95. Mary Celenza

Los Angeles, California · Agriculture and Life Sciences

Twitter: @evilcannoli

Tell us about what you're doing with your life.
Since Cornell, I've been working in the television industry as a director and a producer. Currently, I'm the co-executive producer on a reality competition show about special makeup effects called Face Off on the Syfy Channel.

What was your favorite class at Cornell, or the one you found the most useful?
I absolutely loved Film and Performance. The class blended performance art and filmmaking and was a great discussion about how art is different to everyone. That class really impacted how I approach my work today.

What is your favorite memory of your time at Cornell?
I loved performing with the Skits-O-Phrenics. My parents surprised me on my final performance senior year and it was so amazing that they could be there for that silliness. As one of the group's original members, (it just celebrated its 20th anniversary), it's crazy to think there are members in the group who are now younger than the group itself!

What advice would you give to a student starting at Cornell this year?
Enjoy your time and explore. Explore alternate ideas—just because you start in a major doesn't mean you'll love it. I started in biology and while I do love the science itself, I found that I really wanted to explore a different type of creativity. Also, enjoy the beauty and nature of Ithaca—it really is lovely.