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This October, our One of 360 series continues with Cora Z. ’26, a senior day student from Niskayuna, NY, who enjoys riding horses, learning guitar, photography, and of course: Emmaween! Read on to hear more from Cora in her own words.
On home…
I live in Niskayuna, NY with my parents and brother. I’ve always lived in the Albany area but moved to Niskayuna when I was in 3rd grade. My family is super supportive of me including when it comes to school, sports, or any other activity.
On Emma…
I was in Emma’s summer camp (GirlSummer) before coming to Emma as a sophomore. I attended GirlSummer for two years and really enjoyed all the fun activities we did and also made new friends. Before starting here, I was not happy about changing schools, mostly because I didn’t want to leave my friends at my old school. It turned out to be a super easy transition for me because everyone was so welcoming and friendly. I made so many new friends just in the first few days. I felt the warmth of this community and knew that Emma was more than just a school. It’s like a second home and I feel supported by all my teachers, advisors, and peers.
Lily Z. ’27, Maron M. ’26, Ella B. ’26, Cora Z. ’26, and Kate M. ’26 pose for photos on campus.
On riding…
If you know me, you know that I am a raging horse girl. I started riding about four years ago during the pandemic because I was so bored being stuck at home all day. There’s something about being on a horse that makes you forget about all the other problems in life. Riding has taught me so many things, like patience and perseverance. Working with animals is not an easy task since they don’t speak the same language as us. If you get thrown off, you just get up and get back on.
On guitar and photography…
I started learning how to play the guitar last year. I am not very good at it, but I hope to continue to learn and play for fun. I also have been really enjoying photography. I find it so fun to take pictures of everything in sight. I always bring a camera to the horse shows we go to and take photos of the other riders and ponies when I’m not riding.
Cora and friends take a selfie at Fenway!
On traditions…
One of my favorites has always been Emmaween. Getting dressed up in costumes is one of my favorite things to do. Last year, my friend Kate M. ’26 and I dressed up as minions and painted our faces yellow. I love walking around on Halloween and seeing all the crazy and funny costumes people come up with, going through the haunted house, and eating candy.
Cora and Kate as minions!
Find more interesting stories about Emma Willard School on our Newsroom page.