American University: What Students Call It And Why

what do students call american university for short

American University, located in Washington, DC, is commonly abbreviated to AU by its students. This abbreviation is used to refer to various aspects of the university, such as the SIS building (School of International Service) and the MGC (Mary Graydon Center), as well as in the names of specific schools and departments within the university, like the Kogod School of Business. AU has a strong community of students who engage in both academic and extracurricular activities, making it a vibrant and active campus.

Characteristics Values
Short name AU
Full name American University
Location Washington, D.C.

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AU's campus buildings

Students and websites often refer to American University in Washington, D.C., as "AU" for short. AU is a student-centred research institution with highly ranked schools and colleges and a reputation for creating meaningful change.

  • Using renewable energy sources like solar power: AU has installed over 2,150 solar photovoltaic panels on six buildings and 174 solar thermal energy panels on four buildings, making it the largest user of solar technology in the Washington metro area.
  • Energy-efficient lighting and temperature control: AU has replaced older fluorescent tubes with more efficient ones and uses computer software to automate and control building heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation.
  • Monitoring energy consumption: AU uses meters and tools like Portfolio Manager and Lucid to track and adjust campus energy usage in real time.
  • Preventative maintenance: AU schedules regular maintenance to ensure building equipment operates efficiently.

The architecture of AU's campus has been described as modernistic and traditionalistic, with a focus on sustainability. While some critics have called the campus plan "mediocre", others have praised individual buildings for their design and energy efficiency. The campus features a mix of styles, with buildings like the Business School addition and the SIS building being exemplary in their use of environmentally friendly materials and energy efficiency. The university also maintains campus greenery and has eliminated car traffic from the heart of the campus.

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Student life

Students at American University, Washington, DC, commonly refer to their university as "AU".

American University (AU) is a bustling community for inquiry, discovery, service, and fun. AU students engage, connect, and innovate. They build skills in the classroom, across DC, and beyond. AU students are good neighbours and adhere to the University's Student Conduct Code. The university offers a wide range of resources and support services to enhance student life and ensure that students can engage actively with the world around them.

Student Affairs

The Division of Student Affairs at AU provides resources to assist students facing food insecurity, such as "The Market". No student should go hungry because they can't afford to eat. AU also has over 150 student groups, clubs, and organisations, as well as volunteer opportunities, for students to get involved with. The university encourages students with disabilities to avail themselves of the co-curricular activities offered through the Center for Student Involvement. CDI is dedicated to enhancing the experiences of LGBTQ, multicultural, first-generation, and women's groups on campus.

Campus Life

AU offers a variety of on-campus housing options and accommodations to suit different needs and lifestyles. The university provides a shuttle service with accessible buses that regularly travel between the main campus, the WCL campus, and the Tenleytown Metro station. The Office of Campus Life and the academic programs on campus also offer many opportunities for student engagement.

Library Resources

The Bender Library at AU makes its resources available to all university staff, students, and faculty on an equal basis. The library provides a number of services to facilitate the research process for individuals with disabilities. These services can be accessed by contacting the Assistive Technology Manager prior to or early in the semester to discuss individual needs.

Study Abroad

AU is committed to ensuring that students with disabilities can participate successfully in study abroad programs. Since 2003, AU students with disabilities have studied abroad as frequently as their peers, and the university makes every effort to meet individual needs and ensure accessibility. However, it is important to note that the availability of facilities and support services may vary across different locations.

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Student conduct

Students at American University, Washington, DC, refer to their institution as 'AU'. The university is a student-centred research institution with highly ranked schools and colleges. AU students are known for their service, leadership, and ability to rethink global and domestic challenges and opportunities.

AU students are generally good neighbours and adhere to the University's Student Conduct Code. The Office of the Dean of Students (DOS) supports student learning through programs and services that promote growth and development, communicate the values and standards of the AU community, empower students, and advocate for their needs.

The DOS team implements a case management service to assist students with a wide variety of needs. Case managers help students identify barriers to academic and personal success, refer them to appropriate resources, and develop individualised action and advocacy plans.

Students can access support for significant or lengthy absences supported by medical documentation. Students should always start with their Academic Advisor for any academic concern, such as considering a leave of absence, seeking to drop a class, or changing a grade.

AU also offers free, confidential, 24/7 access to on-call crisis clinicians through AU ProtoCall Services. Parents, faculty, and staff may also call this service if they are concerned about a student.

Campus Life

AU students engage in a variety of activities on campus, from academics to extracurriculars. The SIS building, for example, houses the School of International Service, while the Kogod School of Business is one of the more recently renovated buildings, offering new technology and individual study rooms.

The Mary Graydon Center (MGC) is a hub for student activities, dining, and student government. The Terrace Dining Room (TDR), or "tidder," is AU's main campus dining hall. AU students also refer to the North Side and South Side when talking about the locations of their dorms.

With so many abbreviations, it can be challenging for new students to keep up, but they can always refer to the guide to abbreviations on the AU Portal or ask an upperclassman for help.

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Student services

The short form "AU" is often used by students to refer to American University. This Washington, D.C.-based institution is a well-known choice for students seeking a diverse and engaging educational experience.

American University, affectionately known as AU by its students, boasts a comprehensive suite of student services designed to enhance the university experience and promote academic success. From the moment students arrive on campus, they are immersed in a supportive environment that fosters personal and professional growth.

Academic Support

The Academic Support and Access Center (ASAC) is a vital resource for AU students, offering a range of services to help them excel in their studies. Students can access tutoring services, writing support, and academic coaching to improve their study skills and enhance their understanding of course material. The center also provides accommodations for students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to educational opportunities.

Career Services

Preparing students for successful careers is a key focus at AU. The Career Center offers comprehensive career counselling, resume and cover letter reviews, and interview preparation workshops. Students can also take advantage of networking events, internship opportunities, and job fairs to explore career paths and make valuable industry connections.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

Recognizing the importance of mental health in academic success, AU provides extensive wellness resources, including confidential counselling services, stress management workshops, and supportive groups. The university also emphasizes physical wellness through health education programs and fitness activities, encouraging a healthy balance during students' time on campus.

Student Life and Engagement

AU encourages students to get involved in campus life with a variety of clubs, organizations, and social events. The Student Activities Office empowers students to initiate and lead activities, providing resources for event planning and leadership development. Whether it's cultural clubs, community service, or sporting events, students can build connections, have fun, and create lasting memories.

Diversity and Inclusion

A cornerstone of AU's mission is promoting diversity and inclusion. The Office of Campus Diversity and Inclusion offers cultural competency training, facilitates important dialogues, and supports underrepresented populations. AU celebrates its diverse community through cultural events, speaker series, and training, fostering an environment that values and respects all students.

In all, American University, or AU, as it is fondly referred to, offers a holistic student experience. With its focus on academic support, career development, wellness, and community engagement, AU ensures that students have the resources and support they need to succeed and thrive during their university years.

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Student health

Students at American University, Washington, DC, commonly refer to their university as "AU". AU is a student-centred research institution with highly ranked schools and colleges and a reputation for creating meaningful change.

AU takes student health seriously and offers a range of services to support the health and wellbeing of its students.

AU offers a Student Health Insurance Plan, which is mandatory for all full-time students, students living in university-sponsored housing, and students with an F1 or J1 visa. This insurance plan includes limited paediatric dental and vision benefits for students under the age of 19. Students who are not in these categories but are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours can also voluntarily enrol in the plan.

AU also has a Student Health Centre that provides various health services, including free flu shots and psychiatric appointments, which can be conducted in-person or via telehealth for students who are physically in Washington, DC. The centre also offers telepsychiatry services, but these are restricted to students within DC as the psychiatrists are not licensed to offer this service outside of the district.

Dean of Students

The Office of the Dean of Students (DOS) supports student learning and development and advocates for students' needs. The DOS manages the Care Network, which is accessible to all members of the AU community by submitting an online Care Referral form. This network provides resources and support for students' health and safety concerns.

Academic Regulations

AU also has Academic Regulations in place to support students with health-related issues. For instance, students can provide medical documentation to their Academic Advisor to support significant or lengthy absences, and faculty members are expected to use their discretion when excusing short-term absences.

Overall, AU provides a comprehensive range of services and resources to promote and support the health and wellbeing of its students, ensuring they have access to the care they need during their time at the university.

Frequently asked questions

The full name of the university is American University, Washington, DC.

American University is not short for anything. It was founded in 1893 as a response to George Washington's call for a national university in the nation's capital.

The nickname for American University is AU.

The abbreviation for American University is AU.

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