Calling returning Rams! New Rams! Nothing screams a warmer welcome back to school than the smell of fall entering the university, the pep of cheer from our orientation leaders and the kickoff to Fordham fall home games. As we approach each school year, the streets of the Bronx come back to life and Fordham students return to campus with big plans, backpacks and positive, higher spirits. Whether it’s the thrill of a football game at Jack Coffey Field or the comfort of grabbing a hot slice on Arthur Avenue, the first week is packed with anticipation and tradition.
As a proud junior now, I am excited to express my gratitude to Fordham for the community, my friends, extracurricular activities, lovely professors and the beautiful campus that awaits me. My favorite part about returning to New York is definitely the numerous activities I can get involved in. Whether it’s on campus or off campus, New York is the place to be a college student.
For returning students, the start of a new academic year is more than just a fresh syllabus. It’s a reunion — with friends, with the city and with the rhythm of campus life. “There’s something magical about that first walk down the main path at Rose Hill,” said Lily Chitambar, FCRH 27. “Everything feels familiar, but new at the same time. And of course, the first football game brings everyone together — whether you know what’s going on or not, the energy is electric.”
Similarly, Fordham Football goes beyond the sport. The season opener serves as an unofficial kickoff to the year, uniting old friends and welcoming new faces. It’s a place that feels like your second home. Once you are in the stands, cheering with everyone, dressed up in Fordham merch with Ramses, you really are a faithful Ram.
Even for those less inclined to head to the bleachers, there are countless ways to plug into campus life during the first week. Fordham’s Welcome Week events, club fairs and open houses give students opportunities to explore their interests, meet new people and discover hidden gems — on and off campus. The club fair was my favorite way to meet new people and find new clubs like The Fordham Ram and WFUV News.
Approaching off-campus, Fordham’s Bronx location is empowering — a new, diverse world for Fordham students. Being part of New York City gives students the ability to explore one of the most vibrant urban landscapes in the world.
Many returning students share their go-to off-campus spots like the ever-iconic Arthur Avenue. My closest friends always enjoy a chicken parmesan at Full Moon Pizza (now Mezza Luna Pizza) or a cannoli from Arturo’s Pastry. There are endless spots and cuisines to try, as the Bronx is known for its Little Italy.
Beyond the Bronx, many students enjoy hopping onto the Metro-North or the D train to explore other boroughs. Popular first-week destinations include Central Park, Bryant Park or Washington Square Park for a peaceful catch up before classes ramp up — sometimes even last minute summer night movies, Smorgasburg in Brooklyn for a weekend food crawl, the High Line or Chelsea Market for urban strolling and shopping, pop ups, Museum Days at the Met or Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) with free student-ID entry or, of course, Broadway shows for a cultural taste of New York City.
Some advice I’d like to give to all incoming students is to always say yes to new opportunities, even when you are unsure. First-year students and transfers are finding their path to setting up a new chapter. You don’t have to feel pressured to complete everything in the first week; you have the whole year to explore the campus.
Returning students, explore boldly, but also give yourself grace. It’s not always essential to know the answers to every question, but with time and experience, you will know.
Students also recommend finding a favored study spot early, learning how to navigate transportation or subways and building a routine that balances academics with exploration.
Fordham is in a rare spot where the campus feels tight to the community, but also a part of the massive city. You can study at Eddies and then catch a Yankees game that night. That is the Fordham way.
As the Keating bell tower chimes and students pour into Hughes Hall, Keating Hall and The McShane Center, the campus is once again alive with movement and momentum. Whether it is your first week or your last first week, Fordham’s return is a celebration of place and possibility. So grab your MetroCard, download the Fordham app and don’t be afraid to get lost — in the city or in a new opportunity. After all, the first week only happens once a year. And according to those who’ve been here before, you won’t want to miss a second.
