American University
American University is a medium-sized, private university located in Washington, DC. Located on the outskirts of the city, free campus shuttles take students to the metro station which offers a quick, easy ride downtown. The campus has a mix of classical and modern buildings. In 2018, AU achieved carbon neutrality, one of the first universities in the country to do so. Students relax, hang out or study on the campus quad’s many sitting areas.
Given its location, it's no surprise that AU has strong programs in the areas of politics and international studies. The most popular majors include Political Science, International Studies, Business, Communications, Environmental Science and Politics, Policy and Law. Additionally, there is an option for students to design their own interdisciplinary major. A three-year bachelor's program is available in several majors. AU’s Core Curriculum aims to develop “effective citizens” and lifelong learners. AU has a strong first-year experience program and all first-year students take “Complex Problems,” a small-group seminar and a yearlong AU Experience sequence of courses to help with the transition to college life. New students to AU also take part in the “All American Welcome”, a two week celebration that welcomes new students to campus with over 70 events!
About 90% of students take advantage of the endless internship opportunities in Washington DC. Studying abroad is very popular and American has partnerships with schools all around the world.
Approximately 8,000 undergraduates are enrolled at American. Students come from every state as well as 120 countries, which gives the campus a diverse and international feel. The typical American student is politically and globally aware, smart and highly engaged in academics and activities. On-campus housing is guaranteed for two years. There are traditional, suite/apartment style and living/learning community housing options. There are more than 150 clubs and organizations including cultural, social, academic and service groups. The campus is officially dry, so most parties take place off campus. On the weekends students venture into the city to take advantage of all that Washington DC has to offer. Dupont Circle and Georgetown are popular nightlife destinations.
Who would thrive at American?
Students interested in politics, international affairs and current events will find plenty of opportunities to explore those interests at AU. Students who are ambitious, career-oriented and eager to take advantage of the internship opportunities in Washington, DC will also find a lot to like. AU is a good fit for students who want an academically engaged environment with access to everything a major city has to offer.
Interesting Facts:
The school mascot is an eagle named Clawed Z. Eagle
There is a strong focus on sustainability; 100% of electricity on campus comes from renewable sources
AU may not have a football team now, but there was a team that was forced to disband in 1942 when most of the players were drafted to WW2
Notable alumni include Goldie Hawn, Judge Judy, Paul Ryan, Neil Cavuto and Cass Elliot
The College Spy gets the Insider Info from a current Eagle!
What is the best place on campus to hang out with friends or meet new people?
The main quad and our school’s most popular cafe, the Bridge!
Best food or meal at the dining hall?
My favorite meal to get on campus is a poke bowl from Hissho Sushi.
Best kept “secret” on campus?
There are so many great study/hanging out spots on campus that aren’t just the quad. The amphitheater and patio behind the Hall of Science are some of my favorite places to go.
Describe a “typical” student at your school in under 10 words:
Goal oriented, driven, hardworking, active within politics and current events
What do most students do on weekends to have fun?
Most students enjoy going downtown and to parts all over DC, trying different foods, museums, and parks.
What is something you wish a current student had told you when you were applying ?
I wish a student had told me that people are fairly competitive and very focused on setting themselves up for success.
What is the best dorm to live in as a freshman?
Anderson or Centennial Hall.
If you could wave a magic wand, what would you change about your college?
I would make the school a little bigger, I’d probably increase the size of the undergraduate population.
Wondering if this college belongs on your student's list?
Choosing the right colleges is one of the most important—and overwhelming—parts of the admissions process. After visiting more than 300 campuses and helping hundreds of families, The College Spy provides personalized guidance to help students build balanced college lists, develop strong applications and navigate the process with confidence.
Whether you need comprehensive college planning, a customized college list, individual essay assistance or application/essay support through one of our summer boot camps or essay workshops, we're here to help.
Schedule a complimentary consultation to find the program that's right for your family.