<p>There are always people who get “transfer-itis” freshman year. It happens even at Ivy Schools, but really its just a matter of people thinking the grass is greener. If Fordham was so awful they wouldnt have 23,000 applications last year, be on track for 24,000 applications this year. I know people at UNC-Chapel Hill, the number two or three rated Public university in the nation. Many of them were sorely disappointed with the quality of their classes, the bureaucracy, the nasty overcrowded and noisy dorms, the overwhelming party atmosphere, blah blah blah. I dont do college bashing and dont respect people who do. I mention this only as an anecdote of truth that you can find something negative to say about any school. </p>
<p>I know some kids at Fordham who had uber stats and could have gone anywhere. ANYWHERE. As in 1550 or Higher SATs. Some of them got the itchy feet, greener pastures notion last year in January…but settled down and stayed at Fordham. </p>
<p>Most colleges have transfers in and out every year. Sometimes its just a poor fit. If your “friend” is unhappy, he may want to calm down, stay focused and wait and see…things look different in March. There will be a Freshman Retreat in early January, which is fun, and helps put things in perspective. A lot of Freshmen hate the core requirements, especially if they are not liberal arts students. My D is liberal arts and doesnt mind the core stuff at all and indeed has had some very interesting classes. </p>
<p>Sometimes its maturity problems. Are there party animals at Fordham? Yes. And there is also a healthy number at Tufts, Vassar, NYU, Columbia, Dartmouth, Syracuse, Villanova, Boston College, Bowdoin. You name it. Duke, Wake and UNC are notorious party schools. Vanderbilt has a party reputation. But all of them are also very strong academic schools.</p>
<p>Nobody wants anyone to be “unhappy.” But its really too soon to tell and quiting this early is a sign of someone who is not transitioning very well. </p>
<p>I wish your friend the best. But these problems are usually personal to the student and not indicative of a “bad school.” In fact, Fordham is an awesome school with tremendous opportunities.</p>