Greek Life

It is easy to fade into the background at American University, especially as a freshman. When I first started here, I wanted to be involved on campus and call AU my “home away from home.” I got involved in different clubs but I didn’t feel loyalty or attachment to any one thing. That’s why I decided to give Greek life a try.

Though joining a sorority was something that never crossed my mind, I am here to tell you that I am a much happier person today because of it. I became more involved on campus and I found a group of friends who would do just about anything for me.

Being in a sorority or fraternity is excellent for networking. Each chapter has a circle of alumni who are still in touch with active members of the organization (that is how I got my internship!).

Some people have negative stereotypes about Greeks doing more harm than good. All the sororities and fraternities at AU participate in philanthropic events for their respected charities. Other activities include hayrides, semi-formals, formals, intramural sports and retreats.

Though first semester freshmen are not eligible to go through recruitment, it is not too early to gather information about it.

For information about Greek life, visit Student Activities where you can learn how to sign up for recruitment and learn about the different chapters AU has to offer.

Moving In and Making Friends: Welcome to AU!

Everything you need to know about AU:

Moving in and Making Friends: Dorm Life

Dorm life will most likely be the bane of your existence; if you’re lucky it will be an unpleasant after-thought of your freshman year. Navigating your living situation is often more then just getting along with your room mate; you have to find a place to study, a place to have fun, your way around a dorm kitchen, etc. Throw in the many facility and personality issues your bound to encounter during your stay in the dorms, and it's a pretty messy situation that you are paying way too much for.

AU has taken steps to provide solutions to the problems it creates. Every floor has a Resident Assistant, every residence hall has a Resident Director, and every part of campus has a Regional Director. Their jobs are to make the residence halls your home and help you get acclimated to the university. They are your first ally when you step into the residence halls. There is also RHA, who along with throwing fun/constructive events (aka. free food), advocates on your behalf to Housing and Dining and the university.

If you find yourself in a sticky situation, these are a couple places you can try.

• The Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution Services Whether it’s working through a room mate agreement, or helping you figure out how to deal with a conflict with one of your floor mates they are there to help you.
• Student Advocacy Center If you run into some trouble with the university’s rules, they can guide you through the process.
• Counseling Center If you’re having trouble coping with the transition, their job is to get your through it.