<p>Is it hard to graduate in four years when you're taking all your core classes, plus classes for your major, plus classes for your minor? The core requirements seem to take a lot of time to complete, is this the case?</p>
<p>For example, I'm considering majoring in communication and media studies and minoring in business administration. Is it hard for students to graduate on time or do most students find it manageable?</p>
<p>In a word: NO. Every school publishes their graduation rates and retention rates. Fordham does very well. The ones that leave do so for primarily two reasons: money and well…er…grades. A few transfer out because its just not the right fit, but that is true everywhere, even the Ivy League. </p>
<p>Fordham prides itself, even among athletes, of having a very high graduation rate and I know of several with double majors or major and difficult minor who had no difficulty. Having AP classes will help a bit…mostly with electives. Some even manage to graduate early…if they buckle down, load up and get it done. </p>
<p>Your suggestions about major and minor will not be difficult to finish on time and they are very common. You will be fine. You will be challenged at Fordham. Never ever underestimate a class. Its true some classes and some professors have reputations for tough grades and tough workload and some flighty birds fly off to easier climes…superficial people who care more about gpa than content. They are out there. Ignore them. Take the classes you want FOR the content you want. Embrace difficult classes and professors and reap the benefits. My kid did that. Didnt drop one class. In fact chose some of the hardest professors known on campus in the liberal arts. Took the challenge…and it paid off in spades. Lots of stress, lots of tears, lots of angst…but in the end, a superb education, some very strong mentors (and now friends!), and the strength of knowing she conquered “the beast.” Pride at graduation. The students who dropped and headed to easier courses will always be known as the ones who ran away from the challenge. </p>
<p>Fordham has excellent academic advisors and academic deans and a myriad of supporters to ensure that you take whats needed to graduate on time and you get it all done in proper order. They also do an excellent job of tagging the students who perform well…and offering honors programs and five year masters programs. If you come and work hard, you will do great and reap many benefits. Avoid the party animals and the slackers.</p>
<p>Believe it or not, people do manage to graduate on time.</p>
<p>Thanks for the insight @sovereigndebt and @Matachines! I am hoping to be accepted and attend!</p>