Happy Friday! Today’s #HumansofIDP are Orlando Galindez ’24 and Shrutika Damle ’25. Here's what these two have to say about IDP and one another!
Why IDP?
Orlando:
For me, the main reason I keep coming back to IDP is the community. The people I’ve met during my time here have been some of the smartest, coolest, and most genuine people I’ve ever met. The relationships I’ve made with faculty, staff, facilitators, and students are some of the deepest connections I’ve had during my time at Cornell.
Shrutika:
Being part of IDP has been transformative for me — it’s one of the most welcoming communities I’m involved in. Facilitating IDP constantly cultivates my curiosity and challenges my assumptions, and it has profoundly shaped my worldview, particularly in understanding systems of power. I’m so grateful for all the wonderful people and opportunities that IDP has introduced me to.
What's your favorite thing about your co-facilitator?
Orlando:
Shrutika is caring, adaptable, and such a great friend. If I am ever nervous before or during a session, I can remind myself that Shrutika will have my back. She always knows the perfect time change course or to jump in and support me when in need. Shrutika is one of the coolest people I’ve met and so easy to talk to, which makes working on our lesson plans super easy and fun.
Shrutika:
Working with Orlando is an absolute pleasure! He’s an incredibly talented facilitator, and our different teaching styles inspire and teach me. I admire how he can form authentic connections with everyone he meets and fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere in our class. I can happily say that Orlando is not only my co-facilitator but also a great friend.