AU Student Ambassadors Sydney Schurz, SPA/BA & SOC/BA ’28, and Lakeisha Waichungo, SOC/BA ’27, explain their “why” behind applying early to American University.

How did you decide on American University for your Early Decision application?

Sydney: When applying to university, I knew I wanted to study political science. I looked at many mid-size institutions with somewhat of a liberal arts curriculum, all also possessing strong poli-sci programs. What drew me to AU was the internship opportunities thanks to its superb location in Washington DC. There is no greater place to make an impact on America's political landscape than the nation's capital.

Lakeisha: I made a list of the four most important things to me in a school: A campus, near a city, a diverse student body and a robust study abroad program. American University ticked every single box for me. I had never been to DC but it looked like a beautiful city, I was able to do a specialized program that allowed me to go abroad my freshman year, and I love being able to go into the city, but come back into my own little bubble and leave the city behind for a while.

Do you have any advice for the current seniors who are deciding whether to do Early Decision?

Sydney: I do not regret my decision at all going ED, but you have to be 100% sure you want to attend a school if you are considering this application alley. Make a pros & cons list with your schools. Ask yourself if the cons outweigh the pros and if they do, don't go ED—apply Early Action instead...you get your result back early but it is not binding! Also, freshman year is a HUGE adjustment and the best thing I can recommend is getting involved. Student organizations are the best way to create your on-campus community and support system.

Lakeisha: I would definitely recommend applying Early Decision if the university ticks all of your boxes! Look very carefully at all the things that are important to you. If they align with the university, then I say do it! It can be a little bit nerve-wracking, but there is really no better way to show a university that you are committed to them.

Is there anything else you'd like to add about why you chose AU or how Early Decision improved your college experience?

Sydney: I went to a small, private high school and knew every student, teacher, and staff member on campus. I wanted my college experience to mirror this, and AU's small and immersive school community made me feel so at home miles away from my home state. 
I knew where I was going to college in December, which was a HUGE weight off my shoulders. The rest of my senior year was a breeze knowing I wouldn't have to worry about applications and acceptances. As an Early Decision student you also get priority housing and class registration, which was such a perk.

Lakeisha: Early Decision was really helpful for me because of how early I knew about my future beyond high school. I am a big planner and I love staying organized, so knowing exactly where I was going to be in a year was so helpful for me because I was able to just focus on school and connecting with my friends for the last part of my high school experience, rather than being worried about universities getting back to me and having to decide where to go amidst graduation and final exams. It was really comforting to know where I was going.

If American University feels like the perfect fit, why wait? Apply Early Decision to AU through your Common Application by our November 1 deadline, or you can apply Early Decision II by January 15.