I have the best mother in the world. There are not enough words to describe how incredible of a person she is. To put it concisely, she truly is the best. Not only is she my role model for her kindness, intellect and generosity, but she is also my best friend and most cherished supporter.
From an early age, my mom emphasized the importance of “magis,” a Latin word that translates to “more.” Although seemingly simple, this word is a form of empowerment and a pillar of the Jesuit mission. Through magis, my mom empowers me to pursue my dreams despite any challenges that may arise, while reminding me that “the more you do, the more you can do.”
At first, I did not fully grasp its meaning, but as I grew older, it began to deeply resonate with me. Magis reminds me that, as cliché as it may sound, you can do anything you set your mind to, and more. It highlights the importance of always trying your best and devoting maximum effort to all you do. Magis is not about doing more for the sake of achievement or honor. Rather, it is about doing what matters most with purpose, reflecting the Jesuit values of community, collaboration and curiosity. Living out magis means asking yourself: How can I be a person for others?
Since arriving as an undergraduate student in the fall of 2022, I have seen how prominent magis is on Rose Hill. The collective Fordham University community is fully committed to doing more, which is profoundly admirable. Whether it is the staff on The Fordham Ram, crew on WFUV Sports, athletes on the squash team, volunteers at Murray-Weigel Hall, members of the Curran Center or Dean’s Council on the United Student Government, everyone that I have encountered uniquely uplifts and inspires you to be the best version of yourself.
The influx of magis that is harbored on Fordham’s campus is so special, and being a Fordham student is one of the greatest blessings of my life. I have had the privilege of taking the most insightful courses, making long-lasting friendships and volunteering with remarkable organizations. I am forever grateful for the opportunities Fordham has granted me and the wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
To put it simply, Fordham is my life. I love this place more than anything, and truly consider it my second home. As a third-generation Fordham Ram, I grew up watching my grandfather teach mathematics at Fordham Preparatory School, coach tennis and squash at the University and volunteer with the Jesuits as a nurse for over 50 years. I saw firsthand the importance of serving as men and women for others, and these early days at Fordham ignited my love for the community. My upbringing at this University instilled a sense of comfort here, so much so that I see it as an extension of who I am. He and my mom — his daughter — are my two biggest inspirations, and I hope to have made them proud as a Fordham Ram.
With that being said, and my experiences shared, my greatest piece of advice for anyone beginning their Fordham journey is to strive to do more, more than you imagined you could do. Honor your interests and goals, and never be discouraged. It is so important to be yourself. Do more to engage with the community. Do more to grow and thrive. Do more to make you happy.
Thank you to The Fordham Ram for such a wonderful two years on the staff.
Mary Hawthorn, FCRH ‘26, is a political science and English major with an honors concentration in Catholic studies from Greenwich, Connecticut.
