Evelyn Thimba, vice president for undergraduate enrollment at American University, shared insights recently. The responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
U.S. News: What are the attributes you look for in an applicant to American University?
Evelyn Thimba: At American University, we look for students who are not only academically prepared, but who are also motivated to engage deeply with the world around them.
- As a university rooted in public service, global engagement and experiential learning, we evaluate applicants through a holistic lens.
- Academic curiosity and resilience, and a global and civic mindset are important attributes!
U.S. News: What advantages are there to attending a university in the nation’s capital?
Thimba: Being in Washington, D.C., right now means you are at the epicenter of global decision-making. It means you have a front-row seat to history and a backstage pass to shape it.
- From policy and business to media and the arts, Washington offers opportunities in any and every industry!
- At American University, learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. It extends into the halls of Congress, the boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies, the press rooms of top media outlets and the offices of nonprofits that are changing lives.
- Washington, D.C., is your classroom, and the world is your laboratory. AU is where you will launch your future!
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U.S. News: American University is known for its study abroad programs. What unique study abroad opportunities does AU offer, and why is this featured part of the student experience?
Thimba: At American University, global engagement is not viewed as an add-on to the student experience – it is central to who we are as an institution.
- Our location in Washington, combined with our longstanding strengths in international affairs, diplomacy, public service and global business, naturally creates a campus culture that encourages students to think beyond borders.
- AU has study abroad sites in three major cities – Nairobi, Brussels and Madrid. These cities offer our students opportunities to connect and engage with international institutions and policy work – engaging directly with NGOs, multinational organizations, media and policy initiatives.
- We offer opportunities in more than 100 countries.
