Every year, the transfer department of Fordham University receives a large number of transfer applicants. This year, Fordham admitted its largest transfer class in history, comprising 260 students. As a transfer student, I can provide numerous reasons why students should transfer to Fordham and become a Fordham Ram!
Some students cite the sense of community here at Fordham as a reason for considering a transfer. What does Fordham’s sense of community really mean here? Fordham, being an open and diverse institution, welcomes students from around the world and across the country. Where else would the perfect place to go to school be in the city of the melting pot? The class of 2029 comprises students from over 60 countries and nearly every state in the nation. Many, including myself, are from the tri-state area of the East Coast. For all the students reading this, consider what made you choose Fordham. Was it the location, the majors, the Jesuit values, Fordham’s prestigious reputation or something else?
Fordham University has the ideal balance of city and campus life to begin. When wanting to escape college life and enter Manhattan, the Metro-North makes it very easy, as it is conveniently right next to the Rose Hill campus. The close proximity of transportation allows for safety to feel like a top priority at Fordham. However, it’s all about a holistic lifestyle.
New York City, known for its impeccable opportunities — the “concrete jungle where dreams are made of,” — also means an overload of possibilities and people. That is why I appreciate my Fordham community, a place where I can resonate with and rely on others; living in a big city can be isolating at times, so the feeling of social support is essential. Living in New York is like being in a separate country within the United States. There is no other place like this or a mentality like this. Where else can you find endless opportunities, possibilities and the iconic places to live, work, grow and develop?
According to the Office of Admissions Director Jose Oliveres and the Dean of Admissions Patricia Peek, transfer advisors spend a great deal of time making sure our transfer students have the most appropriate academic path, as well as reviewing transfer of credits from previous institutions. The transfer session at Orientation helps create a welcoming environment for transfer students transitioning to Fordham. As a transfer student, I know that going from one school to another can be intimidating and challenging at times. However, with the fantastic staff at Fordham providing academic, personal and social support, the transition was much easier than I had imagined. Together, they offer a structured environment that helps transfer students adjust to life at Fordham and set them up for future success.
In our conversation, Peek described Fordham’s attraction for transfer students, saying, “Fordham, renowned for its strong sense of community and rigorous academic reputation in the vibrant city of New York, helps students gain hands-on experience through internships, aligning with the Jesuit values of leadership and service.”
The 2025 application cycle received the most significant number of transfer applicants in Fordham’s history. This year, Fordham received the highest number of transfer applications in the University’s history. Peek mentioned how “in recent years, we’ve made strategic enhancements to the application and admission process, which I believe have contributed to our growth by reducing barriers to applying and providing guidance and support during the admission and financial aid processes.”
The transfer enrollment growth “reflects how well the University comes together—from admission and advising to New Student Orientation and financial aid—to support transfer students and welcome them into our Family from day one,” Peek said.
I believe I have made the right decision in transferring to Fordham University, as I have received more than enough support and opportunities to reach my goals post-graduation. The numerous clubs and activities that Fordham offers truly prepare me, highlight my passions and build my skills as a journalism major. Additionally, Fordham opens its doors to a diverse range of students. A Fordham education is student-centered, showing attentiveness to the development of each individual. Such an education shows the resilience of a collaborative environment of students, professors and staff.
In contrast to academics, The Ramily, a community that supports students from Rose Hill and Lincoln Center, truly lives up to its words. Since 1841, Fordham University has stood for what matters most: making lives better through education and service.
Wherever your destiny is, you can be sure that Fordham’s rich history, diverse educational opportunities and prestigious reputation will help you get to where you want to be.
Bridgette Leahy, FCRH ’27, is a journalism major from Basking Ridge, New Jersey.