Becker House Programs
In addition to offering the House System Signature Programs, Becker House offers various program series available to all residents in the House. These program series vary from year to year based on student and staff interests, but may include programs such as those listed below.
Becker Cafe
Following House Dinner most Wednesdays, the House Professor Dean hosts an informal conversation hour. The invited speaker is a different guest each week, who will lead a conversation on a relevant topic. These conversations are open to the public and are designed to cover a breadth of topics that allow students to explore fields they have no background in.
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 in residential spaces, including in the West Campus House System. 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.
Artsy
The Artsy series teaches, explores, and supplies the materials to make art in a variety of popular artistic mediums. Speakers and guests will visit Becker or we’ll visit them to learn about how to make art and hear about their work. The only thing you need to participate is an interest! No experience is necessary.
Becker Explores!
Join us for discovery, connection, and fun as we explore interesting corners of campus and the Ithaca community. Let’s make memories while deepening our understanding of our communities and our places in them! In the past, we've explored Ithaca's pioneering EcoVillage on West Hill, and we've visited sites on campus, such as a honeybee lab. Becker residents are encouraged to suggest additional campus and community sites that we can get to know together.
Nature Connect
Spending time in nature has proven scientifically beneficial for mental health and well-being, reducing stress and anxiety, improving cognitive function and memory, and even enhancing overall life satisfaction. Nature Connect is series of events and activities that are opportunities to connect with Cornell’s natural environment. The series has included guided nature walks and opportunities to interact with local wildlife, including raptors and other birds, discovering edible wild foods, and learning about the principles of landscape design and urban ecology.
“Oh...really?!”
Are you ready to dive into thought-provoking conversations over dinner? "Oh...really?!" is a series of dinner discussions, where residents can engage in meaningful dialogue about current events. These gatherings are a chance to share perspectives, stay informed despite busy schedules, and connect with fellow students in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Reality Check
How are notions of race, gender and sexuality shaped through reality dating shows? How does reality television normalize surveillance? Why are networks and streaming services investing in new reality television content? While reality television might serve as a form of escapism, entertainment and fun, these shows are also cultural products reflecting norms about identity, relationships, and society. Through a focus on shows like Love Island and Survivor, students will be introduced to core concepts in media studies and learn how to critically examine popular culture through screenings, optional readings, and discussions.