Spring has Spung at Fordham

Keating and a beautiful blue sky

On Wednesday, the sun peeked out and the clouds cleared to make way for blue skies. For current students, as well as prospective students and their parents visiting Fordham on Admitted Students Day, the weather could not be more beautiful. 

In fact, Fordham's beautiful Rose Hill campus has been undergoing many landscaping measures and beautification projects to get our school spring ready! Among some of the various visible measures being taken include the beautiful flowers planted around both the fountain and outside of McGinley Center. For me, as well as many of my friends, the planting of these flowers signify the first signs of spring. Soon, the tulips and daffodils planted on various hills throughout Fordham's campus will be breaking ground and blossoming. The grass on Eddie's is a bright green, after being nourished by showers and melted snow. Yesterday, students speckled Eddie's, playing Frisbee, studying homework, and basking in the delightful 60 degree weather.

Colorful spring flowers and the fountain

Also, as the New York Botanical Gardens are right across the street from Fordham, students can look for signs of spring in the park as well. Each week, I go for a walk through the gardens, looking at the progress of all the plant life. On Daffodil Hill, the flowers are being to develop buds; soon, they will be flowering and the path will be lined by hundreds upon hundreds of daffodils...truly a sight to behold.Although Thursday brings more showers, Fordham is beginning to feel a spring fever budding on campus. 

Fordham students sitting on Eddie's enjoying the sun

NYC: A Food Lover's Paradise

One of the many perks of going to school in New York City is the almost endless options you have when it comes to food. Seriously, think of almost any cuisine and there is probably a restaurant in New York that offers it. During my time at Fordham, I have tried all different kinds of food -- some more traditional (like the delicious, warm, and gooey chocolate chip cookies at Levain Bakery) and some more exotic to my pallet (like having dim sum at a restaurant in Brooklyn's chinatown). 

Fresh-baked cookies from Levain Bakery

The best part is that you often don't even have to go very far to get a taste for all that New York's culinary scene has to offer. Arthur Avenue, which is just off Fordham's Rose Hill campus, has some of the best Italian food in the world. And if you're the type that just likes to stick to the basics like pizza, there are some delicious pizzerias on Arthur Ave and just off campus as well.

So whether you prefer to stick to the basics or love to branch out and try interesting and different foods, New York and Fordham offer it all!

Pizza and garlic knots from University Pizza located on Fordham Road

Dodransbicen-what? Fordham Celebrates 175 Years!

2017 marks the 175th year of Fordham University's existence; in other words, Fordham celebrates its Dodransbicentennial! Everyone is in on the celebrations with the university providing students and staff with a year of special events, programs, and exhibits that highlight Fordham's history and influence as the Jesuit University of New York.

Even the Empire State Building showed its colors for Fordham last night in honor of the 175th anniversary!

Here's to another 175 years, Fordham! So that would be a... Semiseptcentennial? Have fun trying to say that in speeches! 

Meet the Bloggers: the Rose Hill Society Ambassadors!

Reading through the “I Am A Fordham Ram” blog posts is a great way to catch a glimpse of all of the amazing opportunities and experiences Fordham has to offer its students, but those who are scrolling through this treasure trove of a website might be a little confused as to who, exactly, is writing the posts--paid students? Administration? A street-savvy robot that the technology department whipped up one day? The answer is, actually, none of the above!

RHS ambassadors pose with Father McShane during an admissions event!

All of these posts are written by Fordham students who are part of the Rose Hill Society, which is just a fancy way of saying that we are unpaid volunteer students who love Fordham and want to help prospective students learn more about the campus. We have to apply and interview to join the Rose Hill Society, and once we’re in we become committed to helping out the people Fordham cares about the most--students just like you! Whether it’s leading tours or writing up blog posts, hosting student panels or snapping photos to put on the RHS Instagram, us RHS ambassadors are passionate about celebrating Fordham and all of its students.

Admitted Student's Day is just one event that RHS ambassadors help with at Fordham

If you want to get in touch with a RHS student representative, just check out the sidebar on the “I Am A Fordham Ram” blogsite and check out our Facebook, Twitter, Insta, or email! If you want to get in contact with a specific student, you can find our emails on the sidebar as well. Happy exploring, and GO RAMS!

Our mascot Ramses (both the real and the cartoon version) are much loved by RHS ambassadors!

Fordham's Performing Arts: Theatrical Outreach Program

The performing arts are an integral part of the campus culture at Rose Hill. This past weekend, I had the pleasure of directing my first feature length production on campus through the Theatrical Outreach Program (TOP). TOP is one of three student theatre clubs on the Rose Hill campus, and strives to perform works of classical and educational theatre for students at local middle schools and high schools in the Bronx. After the performance we have a question and answer session with the students and play some theatre games to get them up and interacting with the stage and the actors. TOP is the perfect blend of performing arts and community service!

 The play we put on was called Kindertransport by Diane Samuels, and focused on the refugee experience of a young Jewish girl during World War II. Admission was totally free, and there was a donation box for the refugee relief organization ActionAid USA, for which we raised nearly $300.  Later this semester, TOP will be putting on William Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

At Fordham, there are opportunities for students to get involved in theatre in any way they may be interested: acting, directing, writing, stage managing, budgeting, costuming, or simply just watching! Usually, I am onstage performing, so it was interesting and fun to have a chance to be the one calling the shots and making my creative vision manifest on stage. If you have any interest in theatre at all, there is room for you to exercise your creative muscles at Rose Hill!

Views: The Empire State Building

View of the ESB from the Flatiron Building.

There is no better symbol to represent New York City than one of the tallest buildings making up the skyline itself: the Empire State Building. People come from all over to both see the Empire State Building from below and climb it to see the view of Manhattan from 102 stories. When you're a Fordham student, there's no shortage on amount of times you'll get to see the Empire State Building, but it heeds the same amazing feeling each time - and from each place!

View of the ESB from MSG - unreal.

The Flatiron District, located surrounding 23rd Street, is home to Shake Shack, Argo Tea, and the Flatiron Building itself.  But, it also provides a stellar view of the Empire State Building.  Eating your Shake Shack while gazing up at one of the most famous buildings in the world is an experience that never gets old.

One of New York's other major selling points is Madison Square Garden, home to so many performances over the years by Billy Joel, Radiohead, Justin Bieber... pretty much anyone you can name! Going to a concert or a Ranger game at Madison Square Garden is somewhat of a right of passage for living in New York, and the view that hits you as soon as you exit a Madison Square Garden event is unparalleled.

There are so many other great places to see the Empire State Building, whether up close or far away, but my personal favorite view will always be from right here in O'Hare Hall on the Rose Hill Campus.  I always have to take a moment when I walk by the 5th Floor Lounge to appreciate how lucky I am to go to Fordham, so close to so much opportunity.

NYC view from O'Hare Hall at Fordham Rose Hill.

Rams Deli Plus: A Fordham Favorite

Coming from the suburban Midwest, I had never been to or experienced a bodega. The closest I have to them at home are gas station convenience stores, where the food is subpar at best. However, when I came to Fordham, I was suddenly introduced to the wonders of bodega food, satisfying my hungers at all times of the day. Enter Rams Deli Plus, the premier bodega in the Belmont neighborhood. Located on Fordham Road between Hoffman Street and Arthur Avenue, Rams Deli Plus, simply known as “Rams” or “RDP” to students, has been a Fordham staple for years, serving hungry students 24/7.

Starting with breakfast, you cannot go wrong with a sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich from RDP. Whether you like it on a roll, wrap, bagel, or croissant, RDP will make you a breakfast sandwich you will write home about. If you are feeling a little more adventurous for breakfast, try the Hashtag, a bold creation boasting a chicken cutlet, hash brown, bacon, egg, and cheese. With so many options for breakfast being served at all times of the day, you can’t go wrong with a quick bite from Rams.

Rams Deli Plus’ options for lunch and dinner are even greater. Whether you want a sandwich, a burger, a wrap, or even halal food, Rams has it. A few of my personal favorites are the Calito’s Burger, which is a cheeseburger with avocado, bacon, ranch, and sriracha, and the California Wrap, sporting grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, ranch, avocado, lettuce, and tomato. If you want something that will fill you up for hours and for cheap, Rams is the place to go. With friendly staff, a welcoming atmosphere, and some of the best food close to campus, Rams Deli Plus is a most go for all Fordham students.

So Long Snow and Hello Students!

A change of seasons. Not quite literally, thought. We are moving out from the snowy days or winter and towards the cheerful, lively days of Admitted Students season! It was only but the other week that Fordham students geared up to trek around campus in the snowy wonderland of Fordham. Yet, the freezing temperatures did not stop Fordham students from spending hours out on Eddie's, building architecturally sound igloos that were over six feet tall and making snow angels. Personally, coming from California, I was bundled head to toe, resembling either a mummy or a yeti with my bulk and various wrappings. In fact, I finally invested in a long down winter coat, thinking that I must need it in the event that we get struck by another snow storm.

Much to my chagrin, the snow did not return. In fact, I slowly watched as it melted off the roofs of the buildings and exposed the sodden grass. So much for my use of a winter coat! Yet, with the absence of cold weather, the sun came out, giving Fordham students a hope for the spring time. With the weekend boasting temperatures in the high 60's, students took to Eddie's to lay out and throw about a frisbee, attempt to catch some meager UV rays while tanning, or simply to enjoy the warmth of this unusually warm February. It seems as if life is blossoming at Fordham, as students yearn for the spring time. 

With the weather expected to be stunning on Thursday, both students and those visiting Fordham should be in high spirits. With an outstanding turnout of over 600 students for the President's Day Open House, we are in full swing with Admitted Student Days and tours for both prospective and accepted students. Throughout the week, let alone on Friday, over 400 students will descend upon Fordham's campus to see first-hand the beauty and comradery of the #Ramily. I, as a member of RHS, could not be more excited for the start of this new "season." Getting to show around individuals interested in Fordham and share my own experience has me reminisce upon my high school experience and realize how choosing Fordham has been a truly defining moment for me that has shaped my college experience for the better. 

Pete's Café: A Fordham Favorite

Pete's menu

After a fire in March of 2015, I wasn’t sure if Pete’s Café would ever come back to Fordham Road.  Last year, I heard rumors that the diner was returning, but the gossip finally proved to be true this semester.  The café opened under new management, and I was so excited to get to go back! Pete’s is located at 570 East Fordham Road, and is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.  

Pete's Café's French Toast

Most importantly, Pete’s is open seven days a week and serves breakfast all day long, so Fordham students can get brunch whenever they want.  Pete’s is cozy and welcoming, with a classic diner feel.  The French Toast is incredible, and Pete’s is known for its Mexican food (like breakfast burritos) as well.  The café is family friendly, with a kids’ menu and many different food options.  I’m so glad Pete’s is back, since it has great food and is a great addition to the Fordham community!

Some of the breakfast food at the café

Friends, Food, and Fun: Fordham on Retreat

If you ever find yourself in need of some rest and relaxation during the semester--and let’s be real, who doesn’t want to take a break from the city that never sleeps every now and again--then one of Fordham’s weekend retreat programs are perfect for you. 

Retreats have a variety of themes, but new friendships are always the result!
If you’re not convinced to go on retreat already, then here’s the final push: the food is excellent, with snacking opportunities abound! Spending time with friends old and new, talking about what matters most to you over a delicious meal in a beautiful setting...it doesn’t get much better than that!

Fordham students at the McGrath House of Prayer
Run by Fordham’s Campus Ministry, all of the retreat programs take place at the beautiful McGrath House of Prayer in Goshen, NY. Here, students are able to unplug from the constant flow of responsibilities and stressors of college life and instead put aside time for reflection, growth, and the development of new friendships with other Fordham students. There’s a wide variety of programs available throughout the school year, with each month presenting a number of retreats that revolve around a specific theme and focus: from year-specific programs to faith-based retreats, Men’s and Women’s retreats to social justice and LGBT-specific programming, there’s a stay in Goshen perfect for each Fordham student. Spend a whole weekend at the McGrath House or just stay for a twenty-four hour retreat; either way, you’ll experience growth and learning that will help you far beyond the confines of Fordham’s campus.

Keating Through the Seasons

If you've visited Fordham you know that no matter what time of year it is, the campus looks beautiful.  From summer nights to blustery winter days, students are always snapping photos of the most picturesque spots on campus, especially Keating Hall.

Home to the infamous bell tower, Keating is placed at the center of campus behind Edward's Parade (the old football field and popular spot for students to hang out on during warm days and during New Student Orientation).  Keating also houses academic classrooms, deans offices, dance studios, WFUV- Fordham's the student run radio network, a beautiful blue chapel, and so much more!  Odds are, as a Fordham student you will have a couple of classes in Keating during your years here.

Here are some pictures of Keating Hall through the seasons, just another reason why you should come to Fordham and check it out yourself!

Keating Hall during the January 2015 Snowstorm Juno

Keating Hall on a warm day in Spring 2015, featuring students enjoying the nice weather on Eddie's!

Keating Hall in the Summer of 2016, preparing to celebrate 175 Years of Fordham, the Dodransbicentenial

Keating Hall in the Fall of 2016 at sunset

Seeing Saturday Night Live... Live!

For our first weekend back at Fordham after winter break, my roommates and I decided we wanted to do something fun and exciting that you can only do in New York City. Since freshman year we had been talking about going to a taping of Saturday Night Live, so we decided there is no time like the present and set off to spend 12+ hours on the streets of New York in order to get tickets to the January 21st taping of the show hosted by Aziz Ansari with Big Sean as the musical guest.

We entertained ourselves by watching Netflix on our phones.

NBC hands out tickets to either the dress rehearsal or live show at 7 am on the Saturday morning of the taping on a first come, first served basis. To secure a good spot on line, my roommates and I arrived on 48th street (where they hand out the tickets) at around 5 pm the Friday before. Yes, it was freezing cold and even raining at points, but we stayed strong and stuck it out. To stay warm we bundled up with layers of clothes and blankets. We also bought ourselves hand and feet warmers from the 24-hour Duane Reade that was conveniently located right across the street from where we set up camp.

At 7 am when the NBC pages came out to hand out tickets we were exhausted but excited. We put our names down for the live show, but there was no guarantee we would actually get in to the taping. We went back to our dorm, slept the day away, and arrived back at 30 Rock at 10 pm to line up yet again to try to get into the live show. We were numbers 19, 20, and 21 in line for the live taping, so we thought we had a decent shot at getting in, but the entire time you are lined up the NBC pages and security guards are reminding you that there is no guarantee you will get to see the taping until you are physically in a chair in the studio.

Once we finally got up the elevator, into the studio, and in seats, we allowed ourselves to be completely excited. Seeing the taping of the show was so amazing. We watch it live every week but there is something different about getting to actually see it happen in front of you. It is so interesting to see how the studio is set up and to see what they do during commercial breaks.

My roommates and I are three of the little blurry faces somewhere in the audience!

Even though we had to wait out in the cold for hours on end, the whole experience ended up being completely worth it and we can't wait to do it again soon! It is one of those New York bucket list items that we are glad we got to check off.

Rose Hill & Lincoln Center: Making the Best of Both Worlds

Fordham University is comprised of two undergraduate campuses: one at Rose Hill in the Bronx, and one at Lincoln Center in Manhattan. Taking classes at two very different campuses may seem like a daunting task, but Fordham makes it quite easy by providing students with transportation through its Ram Vans.

Ram Van at the Lincoln Center campus

Students have access to both campuses thanks to the Ram Van service. Ram Vans run between both campuses every half hour. Seats for each Ram Van can be reserved online ahead of time. One can purchase tickets for the Ram Van at both campuses: in the front lobby at Lincoln Center, and in the Ram Van office next to O'Hare Hall at Rose Hill. However, if you are registered for a class at either campus, you will receive two free Ram Van passes for each day that you have class.

As a New Media & Digital Design major, most of my classes are based out of Lincoln Center's campus. Thanks to the Ram Van service, it is possible for me to live on the Rose Hill campus while also fulfilling my course requirements at the Lincoln Center campus.

Ram Van at Rose Hill

Ram Vans are not only for students taking classes. They are also an easy and relatively cheap way to get into Manhattan. A Ram Van ticket will run you $3, which is only a little more than a subway ticket and significantly cheaper than a Metro North ticket! Ram Vans make it possible for students based out of Lincoln Center to catch a football game on the Rose Hill campus, and for students based out of Rose Hill to see a performance at the Lincoln Center campus. Because of the Ram Van, Fordham students really do get the best of both worlds. 

Ice Skating in NYC

One of my favorite Christmas activities I do every year is ice skate. Whether it be in a small indoor hockey rink or a scenic outdoor skating venue, I always find it exciting to speed around on the ice and avoid falling. There are many places to ice skate all around Manhattan, but here are a few scenic and unforgettable locations you can skate at.

Winter Village at Bryant Park

Bryant Park features one of the few rinks you can skate at totally free of charge (aside from skate rental fees). However, with free admission comes big crowds, so try to get here on a weeknight or towards the end of the season.

Ice Rink at Rockerfeller Center

Arguably the most famous ice rink in New York, Rockerfeller Center boasts a unforgettable atmosphere in a prime location. Since this is probably the most popular rink to skate at for tourists and residents alike, you may have to wait a little while to get on the ice.

Wollman Rink at Central Park

This iconic ice rink is located right near Sixth Avenue and Central Park South. Wollman is one of the most family friendly rinks around, always filled with parents and their children zooming around on the ice. You can't beat the foliage and views from this one!

There are so many places in the city to ice skate, which each one of them sporting their own atmosphere, views, and crowd. Will you be the next person to try all of them?

Songs For Smiles

The show was excellent!

It was oddly warm outside for a November evening. As I walked across the Plaza, muffled sounds of acoustic guitar drifted my way. I followed the sounds and saw that the Atrium was lit up with twinkle lights and filled with smiling people. Where one could usually find a row of tables filled with students who are cramming before an orgo-chem exam while scarfing down a sandwich, was instead a small stage with a keyboard and three microphones. Operation Smile was hosting their “Songs for Smiles” event, complete with dinner foods, a photo booth, and live music. 

My roommate and I decided to join in for a few minutes so we could watch the performers. Such groups as Deadpan, featuring Andrew Abbensett, Kaleigh Young, and the Bright Red Cardinal gave uplifting and exciting performances. Some performed original songs, with only their guitar to accompany the freshly written poetry about home, while others jammed out to classics and pop with their friends.  Juliet Mengaziol, who performed as the finale act, sang three songs on her acoustic guitar. The first was a mashup of Adele’s well-known hit single “Someone Like You” with indie-artist Crywolf’s emotional song “Eye Half Closed.” The song was rich with emotion, putting a clever “emotional” twist on a  well known pop number. She then slowed it down with Natalie Imbruglia’s 1997 “Torn”. She finally wrapped up the evening with the uplifting song “Landslide” by Oh Wonder. After the campus had experienced heartbreak from the resulting violence across the nation following the election, the song was a beautiful part of Lincoln Center’s Healing Process.

A great evening for a great cause :)    
Overall, the event was a great way for Fordham students to come together to support Operation Smile, an non-profit organization which is dedicated to providing the world with life saving surgery, while also enjoying a wonderful sense of community.