Author: Heather Rodgers

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Now What?

A message to current seniors who have or have not made their final college decision yet

First, there is not a wrong or right decision. You will end up where you are supposed to be, meet friends to share life with, and grow as a person wherever you end up. We understand that there are many factors at play in this decision-making process. Consider your academic area of interest, cost, and the things that mean the most to you.

College is an adjustment for everyone, and it will take time to learn your way around campus, find your people, and figure out how to manage your time. Wherever you go, you’ll likely attend freshman orientation over the summer. At Auburn, this is called Camp War Eagle. Orientation is a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with resources on campus that will help you adjust to college life and succeed academically, socially, and professionally. You’ll also learn more about ways to get involved on campus which often helps students have a smooth transition. Just remember that there are people on any college campus who are there to help you succeed, so take advantage of those opportunities.

Second, for those of you who have already made your decision, rest in that! You likely applied to multiple colleges, made it through this entire process, and are about to graduate from high school and embark on the next adventure of your life. Savor the time left with your school and friends, and be confident in the decision that you made about where you will be for the next 4 or so years.

Lastly, no matter where you stand in the decision-making process, remember that this is an exciting time in your life that only happens once. Cherish each moment and take all of the photos. Selecting a college is a big deal, but no matter where you go, you will earn an excellent education and learn more about yourself.

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A Weekend in Auburn: My Out-of-State Experience

By: Giovanna Atti

The only thing better than a week at Auburn is a weekend at Auburn. For me the perfect weekend includes food, fun and friends. In springtime, Auburn’s campus is more beautiful than ever— tulips spring up in Centennial Gardens, cherry blossoms engulf Cater Hall, and Samford Lawn is lush and green, making the perfect spot for a picnic. My friends and I often walk around campus and debate about what we should get for dinner. The beauty in a college town like Auburn is that everyone can get something different and still eat together. I usually end up with Taco Mama and meet my friends back on Samford Lawn to enjoy our meal. We window shop and end the night with a sweet treat from Toomer’s Drugs. On sunnier days, you can find me relaxing at the Rec pool reading a book or taking a nap. The plush towels, crystal blue water, and comfortable lounge chairs make me feel like I am at a resort, much less college. If I’m in more of an adventurous mood, my friends and I enjoy exploring the outskirts of Auburn. We’ve hiked at Chewacla State Park and climbed the fire tower at Lake Martin. As you can see, there are many ways to spend a weekend in Auburn, and you won’t regret sticking around to experience all that Auburn has to offer!

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Does Auburn offer summer programs for youth?

YES!!

There are all types of camps and youth programs happening during the summer at Auburn University. You can find the complete list here, and we have highlighted a few below. With everything from ACT Bootcamp, Creative Writing Studio, and Nursing Camp to Construction Management Summer Academy for Young Women, Fisheries and Aquaculture Camp, and World Affairs Youth Seminar, there is something for each student.

Architecture Camp

Architecture Studio at Auburn University

Architecture Camp is offered for 3 sessions over the summer to rising 11th and 12th grade students. The one-week program teaches students the basic concepts of architecture and is highly intensive. Students receive hands-on experience working in the studios under the instruction of Auburn University professors. Registration is open!

Pharmacy Camp

Walker Pharmacy Building at Auburn University

Pharmacy Camp is available to rising 11th and 12th grade students as well as rising college freshmen. Partnered with the Harrison School of Pharmacy, students learn various skills through hands-on experience, including compounding labs. Students also have the opportunity to visit local pharmacies and healthcare facilities. This camp is a great opportunity for students to see if the pharmacy profession is the right career path. Check back in December 2024 for information about Summer 2025!

Musical Theatre Camp

During Musical Theatre Camp at Auburn University, students get to develop their skills through masterclasses, private lessons, workshops, and rehearsals with the faculty and staff of the Department of Theatre. This immersive camp is for an entire week and gives students interested in music, dance, show choir, and theatre the opportunity to practice on stage. Registration is open!

Wheelchair Basketball

Wheelchair Basketball Summer Camp

This will be the 5th summer of Auburn Wheelchair Basketball Camp. The camp is focused on developing individual fundamental skills and is open to males and females, ages 12-19, with a permanent disability of the lower extremity. During camp, students will participate in controlled scrimmages and develop their skills through drills and games taught by the trained staff.  Campers will leave with new skills and new friends from around the country. Registration is open!

Sr. PoultryU

Charles C. Miller Jr. Poultry Research and Education Center

Sr. PoultryU is a poultry science camp offered to students ages 14-18. Auburn also offers Jr. PoultryU for students ages 9-13. This partnership with the Department of Poultry Sciences allows campers to gain hands-on experience related to the poultry industry, including nutrition, breeding, animal welfare, and product development. Registration is open!

Our Office of Professional & Continuing Education helps students find their passion, strengthen their skills, and shape their future through our summer youth programs. Learn more here, and consider registering for one of our summer programs soon!

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Sweet Tooth: Best Desserts Around Town

There are a TON of delicious desserts in the Auburn area, but these are some favorites in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

The Bean

https://thebeancoffeeshop.com/

If you want to grab one of Auburn’s best desserts while you study, check out The Beans’ famous cinnamon rolls! Each cinnamon roll is rolled, filled, baked, and iced in house every day. It’s a meticulous 12-hour process necessary to create the perfect cinnamon roll! The Bean has such a cool, retro atmosphere making it the perfect place to study, hang out with friends or just grab a quick cup of coffee to pair with your cinnamon roll. If you are looking for something to take home to your family over the break, The Bean also sells their rolls by the dozen for you to cook at home! It’s a perfect way to get a taste of Auburn wherever you are. 

Boulangerie French Bakery

https://www.aotourism.com/Dining/17409/Boulangerie-French-Bakery/

A new bakery has made its way to downtown Auburn, and we are ecstatic! The Boulangerie French Bakery opened its doors on February 1st, 2024, just in time for Mardi Gras and Valentine’s Day. Jessica Rizzo, owner of IL Forno, Halftime and Oz Speakeasy and the Boulangerie French Bakery, said in an article with Opelika – Auburn News, “It’s going to be open seven days a week, and we’re going to serve brunch. We will have all kinds of assorted pastries, we’ll do custom cakes, cake by the slice, cookies, macarons and more.” Advisors in Auburn’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions thought what better way to celebrate Mardi Gras than to support an up-and-coming local business with a King Cake! We tried the cream cheese filled king cake with the traditional purple, green and gold sprinkles on top. We loved feeling so festive this Mardi Gras and we have the Boulangerie French Bakery to thank for that! We will 100% be back!

Saint Bernardo Gelateria at the Hey Day Market

https://www.aotourism.com/Dining/17378/Saint-Bernardo/

I love ice cream, but gelato is my absolute favorite! At the Hey Day Market, you can find delicious house-made gelato in a variety of flavors, including cherry chocolate and banana caramel. They also have an adorable gelato cart that can be rented out for events! This gelateria is a great option for something sweet after your meal, or just an afternoon or evening treat. A true taste of Italy!

The Waverly Local

The Waverly Local on Resy

About 20 minutes from campus is a hidden gem of a restaurant in the small town of Waverly. The Waverly Local serves up southern, seasonal dishes including everything from pimento cheese with grilled sourdough and bacon wrapped Wickle’s okra with buttermilk ranch to blue crab cakes and ranch house pork with butter bean dumplings. The cherry on top is the dessert, and their coconut cake is one to savor. The moist cake with delicious layers of frosting has just the right amount of sweetness and is perfect to share. Settle in for the food and stay for the ambience, you won’t be disappointed!

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Air Force ROTC

ROTC is a program that allows college students the opportunity to commission as an officer upon graduating with a degree.  Cadets in Auburn’s Air Force ROTC program spend their time in college preparing to serve as an officer in the Air Force. 

A week in the life of an ROTC cadet typically includes two physical training sessions, one leadership laboratory, and one classroom course.  Physical Training is a time when all cadets in the program work out together in preparation for a semesterly Fitness Assessment.  Leadership Laboratory is a time for professional development. The goal of the professional development varies based on the cadet’s level in the program. Classroom courses focus on developing leadership skills as well as informing cadets about career options.  Every class of cadets has their own individual classroom course with different curriculum and instructors.  The instructors of these classes are current Air Force officers that are known as Cadre. 

There are many scholarship opportunities available to ROTC cadets.  High school students can apply for scholarships before their senior year. There are three different types of scholarships available to be awarded.  Each type comes with different tuition assistance, year lengths, and stipend amounts.  Scholarships can also be awarded to cadets after they have joined the program.  There are multiple opportunities to earn scholarships while completing the program and still receive all the benefits.

Check out the cadet interviews below to learn more about what it’s like to be in the Air Force ROTC at Auburn.

Current Cadet Interviews:

C/1Lt Daniel Adams

Q1: What year in school and what year in the program are you?

A: Junior, AS300.

Q2: What is your favorite part of the program?

A: Interacting with and teaching underclassmen; helping them learn and grow. It is rewarding to see that happen.

Q3: Are you on scholarship? When and how did you get it?

A: Yes, received for completing summer field training.

Q4: What is the most challenging part of the program?

A: Pressure of having to train and lead other cadets, scary and rewarding.

Q5: What are you looking forward to the most as you progress in the program?

A: Getting to strengthen relationships with peers, connections will be important once we graduate.

Q6: Advice to underclassmen?

A: Don’t think/stress too much about training. Prepare the best you can but also don’t overprepare and waste time. Enjoy the moment and get to know the people around you.

C/4C Marshall Ives

Q1: What year in school and what year in the program are you?

A: Freshman, AS100.

Q2: What is your favorite part of the program?

A: Comradery with other cadets.

Q3: Are you on scholarship? When and how did you get it?

A: Yes, High School Scholarship Program, applied without doing JROTC and received a 4-year scholarship if I maintain a 2.5 GPA and excel in ROTC

Q4: What is the most challenging part of the program?

A: Balancing cadet, student, and personal life.

Q5: What are you looking forward to the most as you progress in the program?

A: Learning as much as possible and (hopefully) progressing to become a POC.

Q6: Advice to people wanting to join the program?

A: Try everything, don’t be afraid to mess up. You will make a mistake no matter what but if you’re scared it will make it twice as bad.

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EAGLES Program at Auburn University: Shaping Future Leaders

By Betty S. Patten, Ph.D.

Auburn University has long been at the forefront of inclusive education, and its EAGLES program is a shining example of this commitment. Standing for Education to Accomplish Growth in Life Experiences for Success, EAGLES is an innovative postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities. It offers a comprehensive curriculum built around five key pillars: Academics, Independent Living, Social Skills, Employment, and Health and Wellness. These pillars work in tandem to ensure students are not just academically equipped but also socially and practically prepared for life beyond university.

A Special Highlight: Rosa Juan’s Journey to Washington DC

Among the many success stories emanating from the EAGLES program is that of Rosa Juan, one of the program’s seniors. Rosa’s recent trip to Washington DC as a Policy Advocate for Think College represents a significant milestone for her and the program. During her trip, she had the opportunity to connect with lawmakers, including Senator Katie Britt and Senator Tuberville’s legislative director. This experience was more than just a visit; it was a platform for Rosa to advocate and educate about inclusive postsecondary education at the national level.

Rosa’s Insights and Experiences

What did you learn while in DC?

“I learned how important the people were in each office of the Capitol. I learned the difference between lobbying and advocating and my role was to advocate. Additionally, I gained more insight into advocacy, understanding the laws, building relationships, and making connections in the process.”

What was your favorite part of the trip?

“My favorite part was sightseeing in different parts of DC, mostly meeting new people from the 9 other universities who had a staff member and student there, hearing their stories, and understanding how it impacted their lives and what they advocated for. Additionally, I enjoyed spending time with my mom and Dr. Patten.”

What was the purpose of your trip?

“The purpose of this trip was to learn and advocate, specifically speaking to each office of our state, telling our story, and hearing others’ stories as well.”

Rosa’s journey highlights the transformative power of the EAGLES program. It has equipped her with the skills and confidence to be a self-advocate, understand her rights, and actively contribute to her community.

A Call to Action

Rosa’s story is an inspiration and a call to action for all college students. Engaging with elected officials, educating them about issues that matter, and advocating for change are crucial aspects of active citizenship. The EAGLES program stands as a testament to the potential within every student to make a difference in their community and beyond.

Auburn University’s EAGLES program is not just about education; it’s about empowering students to be the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow. It’s about creating a more inclusive, understanding, and collaborative society, starting from the college campus to the halls of government. Let Rosa’s journey inspire you to take that first step in making your voice heard.

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Why I Love Auburn: A Series

By Dana Poore

I will go ahead and address the elephant in the room (and no, I am not referring to the elephant that lives across the state). I did not attend Auburn. I am from Mississippi, so I went to Mississippi State. But I still love Auburn. Having not attended Auburn, my “Why” in Why I Love Auburn is a little different than most.

For as long as I can remember, I have loved Auburn. I grew up in an Auburn Family, so for me Auburn was chosen at birth. But to be honest, my love for Auburn truly matured and became my own the summer before my senior year of high school as I began to try and finalize my college path. That summer, before attending a Junior War Eagle Day, I knew my college decision would come down to Auburn and Mississippi State. Honestly the thought of choosing between the two made me anxious and afraid that I would make the wrong decision. That was until I attended the Junior War Eagle Day at Auburn where they presented on home and the presenter said something that has stuck with me since that day almost 9 years ago. The presenter spoke on the fact that when you choose what university to attend, you need to choose the university that feels most like home, as the university you attend will be your home for 90% of the time for at least the next four years. While this is a true and important statement, what left a lasting impact was when the presenter said that wherever I chose to attend school had to feel like home whether that was Auburn or another university. For me, this was the first time a university truly wanted what was best for me even if I ended up choosing to attend another university. While I did end up attending another university, my love for Auburn never ended. So, after graduating knowing I wanted to work in college admissions to help future students find their college home, I knew I had to work at a university that I loved that so many years before had made me feel that they truly wanted what was best for me. I wanted the opportunity to show students the same love Auburn had shown me so many years before, as they make one of the biggest decisions of their life up to that point.

Getting the opportunity to be an Admissions Advisor at Auburn has been a dream come true and given me the opportunity to make Auburn my home. From working with students as they are making their college decisions, to attending baseball games at Plainsman Park, and getting many Vanilla Lemonades from Toomer’s, I still have moments of awe that I get to make my home in Auburn. I have loved Auburn for as long as I can remember, but I will never forget when Auburn loved me enough to let me choose my own path. And that is Why I Love Auburn.

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Harrison School of Pharmacy

By Ansley Phillips

Founded in 1885, the Harrison College of Pharmacy (HCOP) has a rich history of dedication to advancing pharmaceutical education and research. The institution is named after the visionary leader, James I. Harrison, whose legacy continues to inspire students and faculty alike. The college’s mission revolves around cultivating well-rounded pharmacy professionals who are not only adept in scientific knowledge but are also committed to serving their communities.

Walker Building-  Auburn University Campus

Operating from two campuses, one situated in Auburn, Alabama, on the grounds of Auburn University, and the other in Mobile, Alabama, nestled within the University of South Alabama Campus, we offer an unparalleled educational experience to our students. Whether you seek the intimacy of a smaller setting or the dynamic engagement of a medium-sized classroom, the Harrison College of Pharmacy seamlessly combines the best of both worlds.

Mobile Campus – University of South Alabama

The Harrison College of Pharmacy boasts state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the learning experience for students. Modern classrooms, fully equipped laboratories, and a specialized pharmacy practice center contribute to a dynamic and interactive educational environment. The commitment to providing students with hands-on experience reflects the college’s dedication to preparing graduates for the challenges of the evolving healthcare landscape.

Are you interested in getting an early start on your path to pharmacy school? For high school seniors aspiring to pursue Pre-Pharmacy at Auburn University, our Early Assurance Program (EAP) is a remarkable opportunity. This exclusive initiative allows students to undergo interviews and secure conditional acceptance to the Harrison College of Pharmacy during their senior year of high school. Meeting the specified criteria enables students to be interviewed now and reserve their pharmacy school seat for up to four years. By successfully completing the required prerequisites during their undergraduate studies, EAP students can streamline the pharmacy school application process and promptly secure their seat.

To explore the offerings of the Harrison College of Pharmacy or arrange a visit with our admissions team, please click on the link provided below. You can always reach us at apply_hcop@auburn.edu.

https://pharmacy.auburn.edu/about/locations.php

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Restaurant Round-Up: Fall 2023 Edition

Jack Brown’s

https://www.jackbrownsjoint.com/locations/auburn-al/

If you are looking for a simple menu and a unique burger, Jack Brown’s is the place to be! Downtown Auburn’s newest burger spot opened in July of 2023 and has been a hit ever since. Their menu exclusively offers a variety of burgers ranging from a traditional hamburger to their famous “Elvis” burger that is topped with peanut butter, mayo, applewood smoked bacon and American cheese. Their menu is limited, and their founders spoke on how they are not trying to please all tastes, so be sure to check out their menu before you go. Jack Brown’s prides themselves on serving 100% Wagyu Beef Burgers and ensures that you are getting quality farm to table burgers. Don’t forget to grab some fried Oreo’s for dessert!

If you drive by Jack Brown’s on South College Street on a Tuesday night, you might see Bigfoot standing outside to promote Bigfoot Bingo! Tuesday night Bingo offers food and drink specials and prizes for bingo winners.

To learn more about Jack Brown’s Auburn and their weekly specials, be sure to follow them on Instagram @jackbrownsauburn. -Bree Davis

Mellow Mushroom

https://auburnopelikaalrealestate.com/mellow-mushroom-auburn/

Nestled right in the heart of downtown Auburn since 1996, Mellow Mushroom serves up delicious pizza in a cozy setting. Mellow Mushroom was actually the first meal I had in Auburn during my summer college visit in 2004, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. My family and I had just driven into town and had no idea where to eat. Pizza sounded great (when does it not?), so we settled on Mellow Mushroom and it did not disappoint. The thick, soft crust is dusted with parmesan, and you can ask for honey to dip the crust into when you’re done with your pizza. The Funky Q Chicken with ranch is my go-to order, but there truly is a pizza for everyone. They even have gluten free and plant-based pizza options, wings, salads, calzones, and more. -Heather Rodgers

Moe’s BBQ

https://www.moesoriginalbbq.com/

Another Auburn staple is Moe’s BBQ. With locations in Downtown Auburn and Bent Creek, this is a popular spot for both college students and families. Moe’s has a classic barbecue menu with items ranging from pulled pork, smoked chicken and turkey, ribs and wings to fried catfish and fried shrimp. Their menu offers southern sides such as cornbread, mac and cheese, baked beans, and banana pudding. My favorite menu item is the Redneck Nachos which consists of your choice of meat on top of their house chips with melted cheese and both red and white barbecue sauce. Not only is the food delicious, the atmosphere is great for a night out with friends. Moe’s has events almost every night of the week including Bingo, Wing Night (75 cent wings), Trivia, and live music. You can’t go wrong with a night at Moe’s BBQ! -Haylee Dorrill

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AU Traditions: Pre-Game Eagle Flight

By Casey Marsh

“Waaarrrr Eagle, Hey!” Something you have heard many times if you have ever attended an Auburn football game in Jordan-Hare Stadium. Auburn has many incredible traditions, but the pre-game eagle flight is a tradition that is uniquely Auburn!

For many years, the pre-game eagle flight has been a part of every home football game. Before kickoff the Eagle will take flight circling Jordan-Hare Stadium before landing in the middle of the 50-yard line all while the fans cry “War Eagle, Hey!” The very first eagle flight was in August of 2000 and was flown by an eagle named Tiger (War Eagle VI) during the opening game. Over the years, there have been five eagles who have carried on the tradition of our battle cry and pre-game flight. The names of those eagles are: Tiger (War Eagle VI), Spirit, Nova (War Eagle VII), Aurea (War Eagle VIII), and Independence!

Want to get up close and personal with one of the eagles? The Auburn University Raptor Center is open to the public with an appointment. On Fridays before a home football game, the Raptor Center will put on a presentation called “Football, Fans and Feathers”. You can even take a photo with the eagle after the presentation!

If you ever get the chance to attend an Auburn football game in Jordan-Hare, be sure to take that opportunity. Many fans, Auburn or not, will attend football games just to get to experience the eagle flight. To ensure that you don’t miss it, you will want to be in your seat at least 25 minutes before kickoff – shaker in hand – ready to watch the eagle fly in all its glory!