“Friendships at Fordham last a lifetime.” I have heard this sentiment time and time again, and can say wholeheartedly that it is true. What makes Fordham so special is the sense of community that is fostered at Rose Hill and Lincoln Center respectively. Whether it is through a class, sports team, club or even a walk across campus, lasting friendships can truly be found everywhere.
It is a privilege to attend Fordham and be surrounded by such incredible people. When I arrived as a first-year in the fall of 2022, I knew I wanted to devote maximum effort to engaging with the campus community while simultaneously prioritizing my Jesuit education. I have loved being a part of an abundance of organizations on campus, ranging from vice president of Fordham College at Rose Hill to captain of the squash team. It was these positions over the course of four years that allowed me to meet some of my closest friends.
When reflecting upon the wonderful friendships I have made, I thought about my mom’s experience as a student at Fordham. It was in the halls of Alumni Court South that she met her best friend, who is now my godmother. Seeing their friendship, one rooted in a shared appreciation of Jesuit values, is not only inspiring but reflective of the sense of community that Fordham promotes.
A piece of friendship advice I would give to a new student is to just be yourself. It may sound simple or cliché, but it is an important reminder. Doing what makes you happy is essential, and from there your Fordham friendships will grow! For me, I love volunteering, writing and playing racket sports. Once I established that, I was able to explore the abundance of academic, athletic and service-oriented organizations on campus. These include The Fordham Ram, WFUV Sports, Circle K and the Curran Center for American Catholic Studies. From there, it was much easier to meet new friends while learning and growing.
Here are some Fordham students’ reflections about friendship on campus:
Sophie Maselli, FCRH ’26: “The best way to meet new people and make friends is to join clubs! Attending the club fair at the beginning of each semester is a great way to see what clubs you may be interested in — or whose members you think you’d share interests with. Then go to the meetings and see what sticks. Socialization helps keep you sane in college, and branching out to make new friends is the best way to do that. I always recommend getting the phone number of at least one person in each of your classes (especially as an underclassman) so you can bond over questions regarding assignments, or further class discussion. Class friends always have the opportunity to become true friends!”
Ava Cascella, FCRH ’26: “My advice to a new student looking to make friends is to remember that timing is everything. You never know when you will meet someone who will add to your life in positive ways, oftentimes it comes when you least expect it and when you aren’t necessarily looking for it. I do believe every Fordham student should actively put themselves out there in new situations (even ones that may seem scary at first) because you never know who you will meet or who you will bond with.”
Hunter Gholson, GSB ’26: “Personally, I believe friendship is a cornerstone of the Fordham experience. By virtue of the Jesuit tradition, conversation and connection with others is core to a lot of the education we receive here, allowing for genuine friendship and connection to really be formed. You learn about others, their lives, their views and their values, all of which open the door for you to meet others. As cheesy as it may sound, be yourself! Giving people the opportunity to see you for who you are allows for connections to be formed. Also, being curious about others and giving people a platform to share their lived experiences really clears the way for great friendship!”
Ultimately, when looking back on my Fordham experience, my heart is filled with gratitude and joy. I am so thankful to have taken such insightful courses, volunteered with meaningful service organizations and made so many wonderful friendships that will certainly last a lifetime.
