Fordham truly has some amazing professors and courses. Naturally, you'll also run into some not so awesome ones as well, but my positive experiences have far outweighed the negative experiences. I have found that the overwhelming majority of professors take a genuine interest in students when students work hard and participate in their class, produce quality work, and seek professors out in office hours when necessary. The core requirements are extensive, and for the first couple years you'll be taking a variety of courses from philosophy to literature to math that may or may not correspond to your academic interest. Make sure you know what you're getting into as far as the core requirements go if you choose Fordham, and know that sometimes you'll get bored and/or frustrated with the requirements. That being said, also be open to the classes you take. I've had the opportunity to take interesting courses and learn some really interesting things by taking core classes outside my major.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
College is an adjustment for everyone, and some students struggle more than others. I definitely struggled my first year or two, and transferring to a school closer to home was something I considered. That being said, I think it's who you are and what your attitude is more than the college, itself, that really defines the experience you'll have. If you put yourself out there by getting involved with clubs, sports, musical groups, or other activities (AND you have a positive attitude), you'll meet truly wonderful people here. Student clubs always have tons of programming going on throughout the week and on the weekends, so there are always fun, wholesome things to do. There is a large drinking culture, but you definitely don't have to be a part of it to fit in and find a nice group of friends. And of course, there's plenty of other things to do if drinking is not your thing. It's easy to get to the different boroughs of NYC via train, subway, or bus (but sometimes it can take awhile), and there really is always something fun to do in New York and even on right on campus.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Fordham is extremely expensive, as are most four-year private colleges. However, in my experience, Fordham can be fairly generous with academic merit scholarships. There are a great number of opportunities available to you at Fordham, but it is important to make a realistic decision when it comes to finances, as well. If Fordham fits you financially, I would definitely consider this as one of your top choices. If not, I would suggest looking at schools that are more affordable for you. In my opinion, student loans are NOT worth it. You have no idea what will happen in four years: how your career/academic plans will change, what the economy will be like, etc., so if at all possible, make plans for college where you can avoid racking up loans. Fordham has some great opportunities for students to take advantage of... But if you work hard, make smart decisions, and don't have plans for world domination, you can be successful at any school---whether that means starting with community college, attending an in-state college, etc.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Many of Fordham's students choose to be very involved in both Fordham and the neighborhood outside Fordham through leadership roles, clubs, sports, music, volunteering, etc. If you're serious about wanting to attend Fordham, it would be a good idea to reflect in your application the ways you strive to be an active member of your community (and then follow through once you're here!).
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Great for hard-working, friendly, goal-oriented students. Also great for students who want to live in NYC but have a traditional college campus/community.
Fordham truly has some amazing professors and courses. Naturally, you'll also run into some not so awesome ones as well, but my positive experiences have far outweighed the negative experiences. I have found that the overwhelming majority of professors take a genuine interest in students when students work hard and participate in their class, produce quality work, and seek professors out in office hours when necessary. The core requirements are extensive, and for the first couple years you'll be taking a variety of courses from philosophy to literature to math that may or may not correspond to your academic interest. Make sure you know what you're getting into as far as the core requirements go if you choose Fordham, and know that sometimes you'll get bored and/or frustrated with the requirements. That being said, also be open to the classes you take. I've had the opportunity to take interesting courses and learn some really interesting things by taking core classes outside my major.
College is an adjustment for everyone, and some students struggle more than others. I definitely struggled my first year or two, and transferring to a school closer to home was something I considered. That being said, I think it's who you are and what your attitude is more than the college, itself, that really defines the experience you'll have. If you put yourself out there by getting involved with clubs, sports, musical groups, or other activities (AND you have a positive attitude), you'll meet truly wonderful people here. Student clubs always have tons of programming going on throughout the week and on the weekends, so there are always fun, wholesome things to do. There is a large drinking culture, but you definitely don't have to be a part of it to fit in and find a nice group of friends. And of course, there's plenty of other things to do if drinking is not your thing. It's easy to get to the different boroughs of NYC via train, subway, or bus (but sometimes it can take awhile), and there really is always something fun to do in New York and even on right on campus.
Fordham is extremely expensive, as are most four-year private colleges. However, in my experience, Fordham can be fairly generous with academic merit scholarships. There are a great number of opportunities available to you at Fordham, but it is important to make a realistic decision when it comes to finances, as well. If Fordham fits you financially, I would definitely consider this as one of your top choices. If not, I would suggest looking at schools that are more affordable for you. In my opinion, student loans are NOT worth it. You have no idea what will happen in four years: how your career/academic plans will change, what the economy will be like, etc., so if at all possible, make plans for college where you can avoid racking up loans. Fordham has some great opportunities for students to take advantage of... But if you work hard, make smart decisions, and don't have plans for world domination, you can be successful at any school---whether that means starting with community college, attending an in-state college, etc.
Many of Fordham's students choose to be very involved in both Fordham and the neighborhood outside Fordham through leadership roles, clubs, sports, music, volunteering, etc. If you're serious about wanting to attend Fordham, it would be a good idea to reflect in your application the ways you strive to be an active member of your community (and then follow through once you're here!).
Great for hard-working, friendly, goal-oriented students. Also great for students who want to live in NYC but have a traditional college campus/community.