I got into the honors program at Fordham University, Lincoln Center, and have heard that it is a very prestigious program. I also got a National Merit full-tuition scholarship to go which has increased my interest in the school. However, I have also been made aware that it is a very difficult program and professors are not likely to give A’s. This concerns me as I was considering participating in the 3-2 program for Columbia engineering.
I do not want to spend all my time studying. I see that the core is also a big part of the curriculum and I do not want to try extremely hard to get an A in classes that are required by the core, but that I do not want to really take. That seems like a waste of time and as much as I would like a well-rounded education, I think the burden of grades will discourage my enjoyment of the course, especially if it is not a course that is necessarily associated with what I want to study. I like learning about other things, but not in an environment where grades will be degrading my love for what I am learning unless it’s a class I know I need for my major, and will push myself to do well.
That being said, do you think it is still worth it to take the Honors program? Is it really that difficult to get an A? I’ve heard it’s almost high school-like since the core is so important and because I’ve had to deal with so many difficult teachers who just don’t want to give A’s during my high school experience, I am wary of enrolling there. Is this true? If you have any information, let me know as I am deciding between Fordham and University of Miami. Thanks.
I know my daughter had a friend doing that, but at RH and did very well and is currently at Columbia. He did have a good social life and was in several clubs.
UM is such a different vibe from LC. UM is a huge campus, beautiful and has a party atmosphere. LC, is very urban. There is no “campus” per se. The Honors program, is great. Not that familiar with the LC Honors program, but I do understand it is very rewarding.
Typically honors students get their highest grades in honors classes. Not because they’re easy, but because they suit their learning style.
How much would UM be? Would you have to take loans? It sounds like Fordham would be very affordable for you.
However the environment is very different at both. UM is definitely more into partying and there’s a definite importance given to appearance. The weather is excellent, the campus beautiful. Lincoln Fordham will be very different from that.
I’m a current freshman in the honors program. The LC honors program actually cuts out most of the Fordham core, and you’re taking classes with department heads. If you want to make connections right away, Fordham is the place to do it. The classes are a decent amount of work, but they’re definitely doable and you can get a good GPA I have about a 3.8 after my first semester. I’m also pretty sure the 3-2 engineering program is basically guaranteed if you meet the requirements. Hope this helps!