As a student of International Relations, I don't think I could have chosen a better school. My professors were not only well-versed on theory, but they had made (and were STILL making) valuable contributions to their fields. Relative to other schools, AU also has VERY small class sizes (particularly in the Honors program), which makes professors very approachable, and AU offers a wide variety of specialized one-time-only classes that expand the course offerings DRAMATICALLY. In my 4 years there, I took classes on the Baby Boomer's influence on the sexual revolution, the politics of human rights in Cuba, drug cartels in Colombia, and humanitarian response in complex emergencies.
Did enjoy being here
AU is not only a great school, it's in a GREAT city. In DC, you can spend your weekends attending gala affairs at embassies or free swing-dancing lessons at the Kennedy Center or doing one of a million other things, mostly for free. Plus DC has so many NGOs and, obviously, government offices that it's easy to find an internship to gain real-world experience (and get credit for it!). AU also offers a lot in terms of student activities: concerts, forums and guest speakers, volunteer trips abroad, Greek life, etc. Trust me, you'll never be bored.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Yes, AU is expensive, but I tend to look at it as an investment in my future. Potential employers respect an AU degree because they know that AU graduates are well-rounded competent and professional. Plus, AU offers a lot of merit and need-based scholarships; contact the Financial Aid office if the cost is your biggest concern.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Get to know your professors! AU professors are a wealth of information, and they're eager to help their students (future AU alum) succeed both in and outside the classroom. I've gotten great recommendations, internships, and even a job from visiting my professors during their office hours. Don't be shy!
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Anyone interested in international studies, including regional studies (African Studies, European Business, etc.), future MBAs and students interested in business, students who want to have great internship opportunities, or anyone interested in politics.
As a student of International Relations, I don't think I could have chosen a better school. My professors were not only well-versed on theory, but they had made (and were STILL making) valuable contributions to their fields. Relative to other schools, AU also has VERY small class sizes (particularly in the Honors program), which makes professors very approachable, and AU offers a wide variety of specialized one-time-only classes that expand the course offerings DRAMATICALLY. In my 4 years there, I took classes on the Baby Boomer's influence on the sexual revolution, the politics of human rights in Cuba, drug cartels in Colombia, and humanitarian response in complex emergencies.
AU is not only a great school, it's in a GREAT city. In DC, you can spend your weekends attending gala affairs at embassies or free swing-dancing lessons at the Kennedy Center or doing one of a million other things, mostly for free. Plus DC has so many NGOs and, obviously, government offices that it's easy to find an internship to gain real-world experience (and get credit for it!). AU also offers a lot in terms of student activities: concerts, forums and guest speakers, volunteer trips abroad, Greek life, etc. Trust me, you'll never be bored.
Yes, AU is expensive, but I tend to look at it as an investment in my future. Potential employers respect an AU degree because they know that AU graduates are well-rounded competent and professional. Plus, AU offers a lot of merit and need-based scholarships; contact the Financial Aid office if the cost is your biggest concern.
Get to know your professors! AU professors are a wealth of information, and they're eager to help their students (future AU alum) succeed both in and outside the classroom. I've gotten great recommendations, internships, and even a job from visiting my professors during their office hours. Don't be shy!
Anyone interested in international studies, including regional studies (African Studies, European Business, etc.), future MBAs and students interested in business, students who want to have great internship opportunities, or anyone interested in politics.