FORDHAM LAW NEWS — Fordham Law School’s third annual spring orientation expanded this year into a two-day format, taking place on Jan. 18 and 19 for day division students. The theme for this year’s orientation was “Starting the second semester strong: Strengthening the individual, strengthening the community.” For the third year, the program focused on diversity and inclusion, while also adding sessions devoted to other aspects of professional identity development. Evening division students attended DEI programs on Jan. 18 and 19 and professionalism programming specifically tailored to their unique needs, concerns, and considerations on Jan. 24. “We focused on ways in which students can start their second semester with greater comfort and greater confidence in a stronger community,” said Professor Linda Sugin. New programming highlighted the importance of growth mindset to student success and happiness. “It is critical to address the mental challenges of law school at this time of year, when students may feel discouraged by fall semester grades,” explained Jordana Confino, senior director of professionalism and special projects. “Rather than seeing one’s aptitude as fixed or predetermined, a growth mindset allows the student to shift their attitude towards success and believe they are capable of development.”