(American) I believe that American University is a great school,

How this student rated the school

Educational Quality	A	Faculty Accessibility	A
Useful Schoolwork	A-	Excess Competition	A-
Academic Success	B+	Creativity/ Innovation	B+
Individual Value	A-	University Resource Use	A-
Campus Aesthetics/ Beauty	A	Friendliness	A-
Campus Maintenance	A	Social Life	A+
Surrounding City	A+	Extra Curriculars	A
Safety	A-

Describes the student body as: Friendly, Afraid, Snooty Describes the faculty as: Friendly, Helpful

Female

SAT1210

Bright

Lowest Rating Academic Success	B+

Highest Rating Social Life	A+

She rated most things higher than other students did.

Date: Aug 24 2005
Major: Other (This Major's Salary over time)
I believe that American University is a great school, and the majority of my experiences here have been positive and insightful. Coming from a poor/lower middle class background, attending this school has been a sharp contrast from what I was used to. This school is mainly rich and white, so I saw different things and learned a lot from going here. Yes, there are some rich dummies that do nothing but flaunt their money, but they are few and far between, so there's nothing to worry about. The students and falculty are liberal and accepting, in addition the student body is very diverse, so even if you think that you don't fit the stereotype you will still feel at home here.

Also, it's great to attend school in DC. I'm from a small city and always wanted to live in a big one, and I was very satisfied. There's so much to do around campus and in the city so it is not possible to be bored. I've had lots of fun in DC. In fact, I dread going home for the summer because it's so boring! I like the suburban campus in a big city- with that you get the best of both worlds. So perhaps if an urban campus is overwhelming, the suburban setting may be for you, and the city is still at your fingertips. The campus is clean, beautiful and well-kept. That's a plus. People complain about the dorms, but I'm satisfied. I've seen much worse!

At the same time, I've also had some bad experiences. Sometimes I feel that I can't find anyone else at the school that comes from a similar background, which can spark a lonely feeling sometimes. Also, as a Black female, I've noticed that some very sheltered people somehow find that intimidating. Some times I have simply said hello to people and they've been unresponsive, other than a weird look before scurrying away. Other times I feel like I have to "prove" to other students and staff members that I deserve to be here. I didn't come from a good high school, so I don't know as much as the other students, but I DO know that I am just as smart. Some people need to realize that.

This school is also very expensive, but I'm satisfied with my financial aid package. There are also expenses that can be eliminated, such as the meal plan (which is a total rip-off). So, AU can be affordable if you're thrifty and know how to manipulate things to your advantage.

Overall, I love AU, and plan to stay until I graduate. Of course is has its mishaps, but what school doesn't?

Responses

Hey,
I am thinking about applying to AU but as you said it is really expensive, so could you give me any advise about a financial aid package or some means of paying most of the tuition. I am also a black female and on top of that i am an international student so i would love to talk to you and get some help/advice from you. If possible would you please email me. Please i could really use your help. I hope to hear from you.
Cioa
Sofanit

I have to agree with Sofanit! I have applied for AU but I have been having trouble getting good financial aid information from them, and my thrifting skills are terrible! If you have any advice whatsoever, I'd love to hear it. Thanks!
Kaitlynn

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