Each year at Fordham, new freshmen arrive and the process of starting relationships begins for them. Freshman must navigate platonic or romantic relationships with not only other freshman but also upperclassmen. In the wake of current events, including the arrival of the new students, it is important to call upon and reconnect with the Fordham mission and Fordham’s Jesuit values. It is important to remember that “development of the whole person” is part of the Fordham mission. I believe that development of the whole person includes developing the ability to love and be loved.

For freshmen, the development of the whole person in college might be something that is newly on their minds. Hopefully, they will remember that part of the mission at Fordham is to “recognize the dignity and uniqueness of each person” when making new friends or exploring romantic options. But even beyond the relationships they will form, hopefully the new students will apply these two concepts from the mission statement to every single person they interact with in the Fordham community, including fellow students but also faculty and staff.

Yes, freshmen have just been introduced to the Fordham community and are smiling and trying their hardest to forge new relationships, but upperclassmen also need to reflect on their past years at Fordham. Acknowledge all the love you have felt from the fellow community members throughout your time at Fordham. Whether you have been in a relationship in the past and felt passionate love from another Fordham student, or if you have found some of the best friendships of your life at Fordham, the common thread is the Fordham community.

The love throughout the Fordham community can sometimes seem absent. When another student you have talked to before directly ignores you or when you are pushed aside by someone because they believe their destination is more important than yours, it is easy to question the love. It is important to remember across this campus, and anywhere you go, that if love seems absent, you should bring it yourself. When walking across campus or hanging out with other Fordham students on Arthur Avenue, be the one who is loving, caring and inclusive. Be your “whole person” and “recognize the dignity and uniqueness of each person” with LOVE.