American University Top Questions

There is a somewhat diverse body of students at American University, though it really depends on what department you're in. In the School of Public Affairs, for example, there is little diversity amongst the student body, while in the School of International Service, there tends to be a lot more diversity. There are a number of groups on campus for students that identify with a particular racial, ethnic, and religious groups in addition to groups that advocate for LGBT rights and an inclusive atmosphere for LGBT students. Generally speaking the undergraduate students and master's students, tend to be more affluent and this is not as readily observable at the PhD level due to the fact that most students in PhD programs at American get funding. I think most students can find a place at AU, but depending on what their major is and what department they are in, it might require exploring student groups and initiatives/events outside of one's own department.

You will meet all sorts of people here. There are the typical cliques here but you can find very unique people all over the place. I have met people form all over the world - Italy, France, Morocco, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Haiti... the list goes on. Students here are very much politically aware and active, we are considered the most politically active school in the nation. AU is a very interesting place to go to school.

Most of the kids are white, but we still have a ton of international kids. Lots of Middle eastern and Asian kids. Its a pretty liberal campus on most issues, which is probably why we are one of the most gay friendly schools in the country. I dont think any kid would feel out of place because there are so many different types of kids. The school is very politically active, but kids are also very lazy. The conversations vary on topic. There is pretty much something for everyone

The students at AU come from every background imaginable. Be it racial, socio-economic, or religious diversity, AU has it all. Students are from all over the country and all over the world. But most importantly, AU students are open, to the differences of other students and the new ideas those differences bring. And this leads to people of all backgrounds interacting on a regular basis, both in class and in the social parts of college as well. The openness and diversity of AU are part of why I love this school as much as I do. And its so relaxed. You won't be judged by something as minor as what you wear to class, sweatpants are just as accepted as suits.

My classmates are fun and unique individuals who work hard, but still know how to have fun and relax.

My classmates are a mix of a privilieged white majority and an ethnic middle-class minority.

Students are well versed on current events, and posess a general open-mindedness towards new ideas and learning; most students are active in areas beyond academics in order to make an impact in their communinty.

There is no typical American University student. Everyone is different and everyone has a passion- that is really what sets AU apart. There is a theme of giving back to the community, and really to the world, that runs through everything at AU and it makes the students feel like there's something MORE out there. About 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of AU students are involved in greek life, which is a lot for about 5000 undergrad but there are lots of other ways to get involved including clubs and professional organizations.

My classmates are interested in politics, motivated, and very willing to share their opinions.

My classmates are intelligent, interested in learning, and driven to change the world.