The good news is that Fordham, as the Jesuit University of New York, has an established presence in the city. So making a good name for yourself at Fordham can keep you from drifting into anonymity in the big city.
However, doing so does not come easy to anyone. So, how exactly do you make a name for yourself at Fordham? Our editorial board has a few suggestions for students, regardless of class standing.
While it may be obvious, the first step is getting involved. While it may be a cliche for the college experience, it is no less important. Orientation leaders, resident assistants, university personnel and upperclassmen are encouraging freshmen to get involved or asking what they want to get involved in, but what exactly does this mean? Being involved does not have to mean being a USG (United Student Government) senator or an RHA (Residence Hall Association) president.
Getting involved comes in all shapes and sizes. Students can volunteer and assist in fundraising through the Dorothy Day Center or one of the charitable clubs such as Fashion for Philanthropy and Circle K. They can also join one of the performance groups, like Flava or FET, write for one of the student publications, both journalistic and literary, or explore the wide variety of political, cultural, religious, academic and special interest organizations on campus.
Many students become part of the executive board of clubs as early as their sophomore year, and most upperclassmen say that they wish they got more involved in their current organizations earlier.
That being said, simply showing up to meetings is a start, but that will not help you make a name for yourself. Speak up, work events, take initiative and contribute ideas. Consider joining multiple clubs or organizations and running for elected positions within those groups. The worst you can do is lose and go home with another experience in your back pocket.
On the academic side, get in touch with your professors and deans. Raise your hand and answer questions. Sit in the front of the classroom. Send emails to professors as often as you text your friends. Keep up on readings — even if they are not required. Study in quiet spaces — like Walsh Library — instead of trying to multi-task while listening to music or watching television.
On the social side, making a name for yourself can be much more simple. Unfortunately, names and reputations can stick. While we may wish that people would give each other second or third chances, this will not always be the case. The long and short of this reality is: have fun, go out, but keep things classy, or at least keep it secret. You do not want to be known as the kid that did “that thing” freshman year. If you are that kid, it is a new year. Try turning over a new leaf. Get away from tri-bar for a weekend and go into the city. With a little effort, you can shrug that awful nickname.
The goal, making yourself known, is lofty. It cannot be done in a semester, let alone a week. But, it starts with making a decision to move onward and upward in regard to your career at Fordham and standing out from the crowd of thousands of faces at Fordham.
