Something for Everyone
IntroductionThere really isn't any type of person that wouldn't fit in here. American really boasts an atmosphere that accepts every clique, personality, and individual. Punks, jocks, athletes, preps, bookworms, activists are all to be found here; however, the student body doesn't feel fragmented. There is a plethora of diverse students, but overall, everyone mingles with everyone. It's a very accepting place that doesn't take pride in cutting down others. This was my reason for coming, and so far, it's been amazing!
Campus Life and Social LifeThere is an abundance of parties. Now, it certainly is not the partying atmosphere of a state school, yet, that should not diminish anyone's desire for great parties because American certainly has them. The vast majority are held by the schools major fraternities (Delta Chi, Sigma Chi, Pi Kap Alpha, etc), some sororities, and various other groups. Unfortunately, all frat-houses are off campus, so that means you're going to be packed in the car with a bunch of random people. But the brothers are always safe and have a system designed to ensure that students get rides when they want them. So, the parties are great (kegs, music, beer pong). Drugs are there for the people who want them, invisible for those who don't. Sports are a smaller contribution to AU's social climate, it's always fun to run down to the gym and see the basketball team play. Other major sports include ultimate frisbee, field hockey, soccer, et al. No football team however (sorry!).
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AcademicsJust like any other school, you get as much out of your classes as you put in. It is possible to pick your professors (and your entire schedule for that matter) with "RateMyProfessors.com" supplementing your every move for the easiest classes possible. But don't be fooled; AU has some very demanding classes. No matter what, you're bound to run into a few classes that require some hefty reading time, but truthfully, the work is certainly nothing that is unmanageable. It's really a work hard, play hard type of atmosphere, and most students find that the work load is quite standard. The math department is dismal, but the school is not one that boasts its mathematics, so just get through your university math requirement early, and the rest is up to you!
Student BodyWell, AU boasts being a "global university," so our school really prides the diverse cultures from around the world. On average, 140-150 countries are represented in the student body (which, for our school size, is quite an addition). Like I said, though, there really is no specific type of student. Everyone is unique and interacts with one another making for a motley-assortment of students. It should be noted that, being in Washington, DC, the students here tend to politically charged (more on the left, but certainly those on the right as well). Everyone has internships or goes abroad or is in someway affiliated with the world around them. This activism really keeps the school functioning in the way it does; there is always something going on for everyone.
In Closing...In summation, AU is a wonderful place to break from your traditional "home-town" bubble, become educated, and learn a thing or two about yourself in the meantime. The social life and academics keep everyone busy, but there is an overwhelming sense of a community, here at AU. Like our motto says, "Once an Eagle, always an Eagle," and I couldn't agree more.