What does Fordham University look for in the college essay?

Fordham University is interested in seeing the authentic you come through in your college essay. They value a strong sense of self-awareness and are looking for students who can reflect deeply on their experiences—whether those are moments of personal growth, moral dilemmas, or meaningful connections with others. As a Jesuit institution, Fordham emphasizes community, social justice, and a commitment to service, which you can subtly highlight if it ties into your story, but you don't need to force it.

Storytelling is important. Fordham appreciates essays that are engaging and personal. Instead of focusing on generic topics, try to zoom in on a moment or a specific anecdote that shaped you. For instance, rather than writing about the broad experience of moving to a new school, you could focus on a single lunchtime where you reached out to someone else who looked lost, unpacking what that interaction taught you about empathy or initiative.

Academic interests can be a part of your essay, but they shouldn't overshadow who you are as a person. The admissions team wants to see how your passions or challenges shaped your growth and character. For example, if you’re passionate about environmental science, share a unique personal experience that sparked your interest—maybe cleaning up a local beach and the unexpected friendships you formed doing it.

A recent Fordham student shared in an info session that their essay about translating for a parent at a hospital visit helped showcase both resilience and a commitment to helping others—a theme that resonated with Fordham’s values. Another example: a student wrote about organizing cultural celebrations in their neighborhood, which connected to their sense of community and leadership.

Don’t stress if your ideas seem basic at first. What matters most is how you use the essay to highlight something specific about your character or worldview; mundane topics can stand out if you present them with honesty and fresh insight. Before starting, ask yourself: What’s a story only I can tell? Where have I shown empathy, leadership, or a desire to better my community?

Most importantly, be true to your own voice. Fordham’s readers want a window into how you think and what drives you. That authenticity—and a willingness to reflect—will make your essay memorable for Fordham.