AEM 1101 is the required introductory course for the AEM major and the Grand Challenges program. It provides an essential foundation for understanding academic resources, expectations, and opportunities at the Dyson School, within the Cornell community, and beyond. The course fosters collaborative connections among Dyson students, faculty, staff, and alumni—building relationships that will support students throughout their academic journey. Students will explore global Grand Challenges through the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), identifying the SDGs that best align with their values and skill sets. This exploration may inform future coursework and capstone projects.

Outcome 1
Demonstrate awareness of the history, programs, and support structure of the Dyson School within both the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Outcome 2
Describe and evaluate the interconnections among at least three SDGs in relation to global economic, societal, and environmental systems.

Outcome 3
Use systems analysis to examine an SDG-related issue, recognizing multi-level constraints, uncertainty, and the interplay of human, natural, institutional, and systemic drivers.

Outcome 4
Use insights from guest speakers, develop and articulate a perspective on the role of for-profit businesses in addressing global or local inequities within a free-market economy.

Outcome 5
Establish a clear set of academic and co-curricular growth objectives for the next 3-4 years, based on personal reflection and an understanding of available Dyson and Cornell resources.