Does Fordham Review Disciplinary History for Transfer Students on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated!)
So, you’re thinking about transferring to Fordham, eh? You’ve got your sights set on the hallowed halls of Rose Hill or the bustling streets of Lincoln Center, and you’re ready to trade in your current academic experience for the Big Apple’s vibrant intellectual scene. But before you go chugging down that metaphorical “transfer train,” there’s one crucial question that’s probably been swirling around your mind like a rogue bagel in a New York City subway: Does Fordham review disciplinary history for transfer students on the Common App?
The short answer? It’s a bit of a “maybe.”
And by “it’s a bit of a maybe,” I mean it’s more of a “we’re not gonna tell you, but we might be looking.”
Fordham, like many universities, is playing the “we’re all about second chances, but we’re also not going to explicitly state that” game.
Think of it like this: They’re the cool, mysterious bartender at a swanky speakeasy. They’re not going to tell you the secret password, but if you act like a decent human being, they might just let you in.
The Fine Print: What Fordham Says
Fordham might not be a “tell-all” when it comes to disciplinary history, but they do drop a few hints. Here’s what we know:
- “Holistic Review”: Fordham claims to review applications “holistically,” meaning they consider your entire academic profile, including your grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. This opens the door for them to consider anything they deem relevant, including disciplinary history, if they stumble upon it.
- FERPA Rules: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) allows colleges to share student records with other institutions where a student seeks to enroll. This means if your previous school has documented disciplinary actions in your academic records, Fordham might be able to access them.
- “Academic Guidelines”: Fordham’s Student Academic Policies and Procedures Manual lists “Professional Conduct, Discipline, and Appeals” as a key component of their academic guidelines. This suggests they do take disciplinary history into account, even if they don’t explicitly state it.
The Unwritten Rules: What Fordham Doesn’t Say
Now, let’s dive into the unspoken truths:
- The “It Depends” Factor: It’s quite likely that Fordham’s review of disciplinary history depends on the severity and nature of the offense. A minor infraction, like a late-night dorm party, might be overlooked, while something more serious, like academic dishonesty, could raise red flags.
- The “Context is King” Principle: Even if Fordham does discover a disciplinary incident, they’ll probably consider the context. Did you learn from the experience? Did you take steps to rectify your actions? These factors could sway their decision.
- The “Don’t Be A Jerk” Rule: Fordham, like most universities, wants to attract students who are good citizens. They want people who are respectful, responsible, and contribute positively to the campus community. If your disciplinary history suggests you might be a disruptive force, it could work against you.
The Transfer Student’s Dilemma: Should You Disclose?
So, what should you do? Should you confess your sins, or hope they don’t find out?
This is a tricky situation, and there’s no easy answer. Here’s a gut-check:
- If you have a significant disciplinary record, you should probably disclose it. Don’t try to hide it, as it could come back to bite you. Instead, be upfront and explain the situation. Focus on what you learned from the experience and how you’ve grown as a person.
- If you have a minor infraction, you might consider disclosing it, but it’s not mandatory. Use your best judgment. If you think it could significantly impact your application, it’s probably best to address it. But if it’s a minor blip on the radar, you can probably leave it out.
- The “Common App” Conundrum: The Common App for transfer students doesn’t specifically ask about disciplinary history. However, it does have a section for “Additional Information,” where you can address any concerns you have about your application. This is a good place to provide context for any potential red flags.
Transferring to Fordham: A Balancing Act
Transferring to Fordham is a big deal. It’s a chance to rewrite your academic story and embark on a new chapter. But it’s also important to be honest and transparent about your past.
Remember, Fordham is looking for students who are a good fit for their community. They want people who are responsible, respectful, and committed to learning. If you can demonstrate that you’ve learned from any past mistakes and are ready to contribute to the Fordham community, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Ram.
Need Help Navigating the Transfer Labyrinth?
If you’re still feeling lost in the transfer maze, don’t panic! We can help. At JobLoving, we’re a community of transfer students, alumni, and experts who are here to guide you through the process. We can answer your questions, share our experiences, and provide resources to help you make your dreams a reality.
So, what are you waiting for? Connect with us today! We’re here to help you transfer to Fordham and make your academic dreams a reality. And remember, even if you have a checkered past, a little honesty and self-reflection can go a long way. Good luck!