Bob Frady
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
Tell us about what you're doing with your life
I built a business doing geospatial risk analysis and sold it a couple of years ago. Spending lots of time with friends and family.
What was your favorite class at Cornell, or the one you found most useful?
Introduction to Wine and Spirits (aka - drinks with the Dean). It gave me an incredible appreciation for wine and spirits…plus it made me look smart at parties.
What is your favorite memory of your time at Cornell?
Frankly, it was getting my diploma. I had to battle academically to get through Cornell and managed to graduate in four years. Plus, I never remember passing my swim test, so when they handed me my diploma I was totally surprised.
Which Cornell classmates do you keep in touch with?
Tim Galante ‘84 and Jeff Rollings ‘85 (both from Delta Phi and our band, My Three Sons). Janet Finkel. George Hall and Edwin Avent. Drew Martin. Andy Tomat and Larry Kawano and I just reconnected after many years.
How has your time at Cornell influenced you since you graduated?
I saw so many people work so incredibly hard to grind out good grades…something I had to learn to do. As a result, I entered the work force with a huge habit of grinding things out. Also, Cornell is a great brand to have behind you. They took a chance on me and I always wanted to live up to the whole “you went to Cornell so you must be smart” thing.
What extracurricular activity or hobby from your time at Cornell was most meaningful?
First two years at Cornell I was a manager on the basketball team. Which was hugely fun. Last two years I played drums in the band “My Three Sons”…which was WAY more fun.
If you could change anything about your Cornell experience, what would it be?
The only thing I would have done differently (and there’s not much) would be to take some more interesting elective classes.
What advice would you give to a student starting at Cornell?
Work hard but have fun. Take advantage of everything that Cornell has to offer - take some interesting class and take a chance on some interesting activities.
What are you most looking forward to at Reunion 2024?
Showing my wife (who went to Cornell College) around the “real” Cornell campus.