American University
Reviews

Political Science/International Relations Track

There is no doubt that you're getting what you paid for at AU as far as education goes. The classes are hard, but manageable and you WILL learn. Being in DC and at AU is a combination made in heaven, especially when your professors have participated in political campaigns, done extensive research in foreign countries, or worked in government.

Great If You Like Frats, Great If You Don't

Welcome Week = Frat parties. UNLESS you don't want them. Brothers and sisters are all around but they do not rule the school. It's just extremely fun if you're involved. You can have friends that are involved, and friends who aren't. Chances are, though, your whole freshman year will be full of frat parties in the weekends. And boy are they fun.

AU Football: Undefeated

Growing up in the football mania south made transitioning to a school without a team a little weird at first but I got over it a pretty quick. There is not as much wild school spirit like that at some fiercely completive state schools but after just one semester I realized that all that hype often blinds students into choosing a team instead of proper school. Not to say that we don't know how to get rowdy and have some fun, it's just that AU students like to get excited about different things. At the same time, we have pretty successful Basketball and Soccer teams if you ever get the urge to paint your face and scream a fight song.

Overall I'd Probably Still End up Here

Initially I was super turned off by American and did everything to avoid it. Other college prowler posts scared me away. And although what many of them said is true, it seemed a lot more negative than positive. Yes there is a high gay population, but there are just as many straight people to get with too. No we don't have raging campus parties because we are a "dry" campus, but there are plenty of parties off campus, and they are easy to get to. American is in the middle for everything which i find great. its not too hard but not too easy, academically. Its not a party school but its not a boring school either, theres something for everyone.

Triple

I am a freshman and I am in a triple and although the spacing is hard to deal with you really don't spend that much time in your room besides when you are sleeping so don't freak out if you're in a triple. The school is also really good at de trippling throughout the semester, and i you like your two roomate you have the option of not de tripling as well

Hard but Worth It

There is a ton of work and most of the professor and courses are very challenging, but it pays off and you learn a LOT. You will always find those certain classes and professor that you don't like, but the majority of professor are amazing and always willing to help you whenever you need and encourage you to do your best and try your hardest.

Greek Life

The sororities/fraternities are available if you like that kind of thing, but not annoyingly present if you don't. The university tries to create a sense of community in the dorms, so you don't need to be involved in Greek life just to have a group of friends.

Greek Life Is Very Prominent

Fraternities are very active on campus. Most of the parties freshman attend are off campus frat parties. While on campus you always see people with their fraternity or sorority letters on their clothing/accessories. Greek life is really prominent. There is no official Greek housing. Typically members of the fraternities and sororities get houses together off campus. There are a large number of students not at all involved with Greek life though.

Dorms

Dorms at American University are very nice in comparison to most schools, unless you live in Letts aka the "Letto".

Communications

Being a Communications major at American University is very interesting because it's Washington DC location is ideal for those interested in being a part of the political media.

Lots of Variation

In DC, we experience all four seasons. It's hot and humid in the summer, windy and rainy in the fall, snowy in the winter, and warm and sunny during the spring.

Laptops Useful, but Not Necessary

There are lots of computers for student usage across campus - however, students having their laptops makes it a lot easier, especially during classes and taking notes.

Meh

Greek life is there but it doesn't rule campus life. And even within the greek life there is alot of diversity.

Shuttles Are Great.

The AU campus shuttles run to Tenleytown, Tenleytown Campus and the Washington College of Law regularly - they're so easy to catch and they run 20 minutes past the metro closing time every night. Public transportation in DC is otherwise pretty expensive, but once you're downtown, it's really easy to just walk around to whatever you want to see.

They Ain't Got No Alibi

The term "AU goggles" is relevant for a reason. The guys here are HORRIBLE! So horrible that even the mediocre ones are jerks because the pretty girls all pay attentiont o them. The only semi-decent ones are all in fraternities.

Ugly

They're where the campus-are parties are. Whether or not they are fun I do not know. Most AU people are ugly so I avoid AU parties.

Expect the Unexpected

AU weather is unpredictable. On a daily basis, the weather can and will change drastically.

Apartments

There are a number of off campus apartments to live nearby AU. The most popular off campus housing option is the Berkshire apartments. Students can either choose to rent a unit through AU, or privately through the Berks. The options available are studio, small,medium,large one bedroom, and two bedroom units. The Avalon is across the street from the Berks as is slightly more upscale.

AU Shuttle

The AU shuttle brings students to and from areas of main campus to Tenley campus and the Tenleytown metro station. The shuttle schedule is often sporadic and can be very aggravating. Students are often waiting at the shuttle stop for 15-20 minutes before a bus finally comes along.

Off-Campus

There are many options of Off-Campus Housing at American University. Although some of the places are expensive, the prices of rent can be significantly lowered if you share an apartment with 2 or 3 roommates.

Bender Library

American University provides its students with ample computers, various types of study settings, and top-notch research materials/tools. There is also the option of utilizing the quiet floor. Group study rooms are available upon with a reservation, tendered by knowledgeable and personable library staff members. The MudBox Cafe on the basement floor is a great place to grab a quick bite or some tea during a study break.

American University

I'd say we're a pretty diverse community. While we have a large number of upper middle class white students, we've got plenty of diversity that's continuing to grow here

Location

It's in a great location, and there are so many opportunities for internships, etc.

DC Is a Great College City

DC is amazing, its the reason most of us chose American. There's always something to do. The mall is a fun place to go, but other great spots are the zoo, friendship heights (good shopping), metro center (which is downtown), and dupont circle, to name a few.

Nice

D.C gets amazing summers, chilly winters and beautiful fall and springs. It is the perfect average of all types of weather.