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Auburn Abroad: “Non-Auburn” Programs, another option!

When going abroad, many students choose to participate in an Auburn led/directed program, but that isn’t the only option! Our office can also help you look outside of Auburn to find what we call a Non-Auburn program. We want students to find the program that fits their goals and needs best, whether that is one of our programs or one outside of AU. A Non-AU program can often help students find the programs that fit exactly what they are looking for which may include a specific location, timing of program, length of program, or certain academic courses. Non-Auburn programs expand the options of what our students can do abroad! 

Bella Facchini is a rising senior that went abroad on two Non-Auburn Programs last summer. She traveled to two different locations with popular abroad programs, SAI and Lead Abroad. This is what Bella has to say about her experience with her non-Auburn programs.

“Going abroad was one of the best experiences of my college career. However, when I first started looking into going abroad, I debated whether I wanted to go with an Auburn program or a third-party program. I was lucky to experience two third-party programs over my summer semester, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I chose SAI Abroad for a five-week program in Sorrento and Lead Abroad for a five-week program in Barcelona, and it was the best of both worlds!  

I could not speak more highly about SAI Abroad. It allowed me to be an independent traveler while gaining credits that transferred to core Auburn classes. SAI enables you to live in apartments around the city, which made me feel like I was truly living in Sorrento. Teachers from Italy taught me core classes like the principles of marketing, which gave me a unique perspective and learning experience. Everyone in the SAI program concentrated on providing students with the best experiences, offering activities throughout the week like cooking classes, yoga every morning, and sunset kayaking. My five weeks in Sorrento was something I will cherish forever. SAI programs provided more of a hands-off experience so students could grow beyond the classroom and outside the world!  

Lead Abroad was one of the most well-organized programs I’ve ever seen. While it was much more guided than SAI abroad, Lead Abroad wanted to make sure every student made the most out of their abroad experience. From the second students arrived in Barcelona, Lead Abroad ensured they were pulling out all the stops. From welcome dinners to guided tours of Barcelona’s famous landmarks to weekly personal reflections, Lead Abroad had something for every student. 

The best part about using a third-party program was the friends I made. A third-party program gives you a unique opportunity to meet students nationwide. I was the only Auburn student in my Sorrento program, which was very intimidating initially; however, SAI fosters the most welcoming environment. I met my best friends within the first few days and now have friends from all over the country. Over the past year, we have traveled to visit each other, called to catch up, and cheered each other on from all over the country. SAI provides me with a network of friends I will cherish forever. The Lead Abroad network is much smaller because the programs are only offered to SEC schools. I knew that students were going to be studying abroad with their friends they had at their universities, so again, I was nervous because I was going alone. However, Lead Abroad makes it a point to connect students with the same interests and hobbies. I met girls from Auburn and other SEC schools who are now my best friends. Lead Abroad connected me with people I wouldn’t have met initially at Auburn, and now I can experience gamedays, study sessions, and new adventures with my friends I met in Barcelona!”

Bella is one of over 250 Auburn students that chose to attend a Non-Auburn third-party program and had an amazing experience. Studying abroad is extremely valuable to our students and we want to find the program that works best for everyone whether it is an Auburn facilitated program or not.

For more information about selecting a Non-Auburn program, you can visit the Non-Auburn Registration Page. For general study abroad information, check out the Auburn Abroad website!

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Restaurant Round-Up: Spring 2024 Edition

Agave Loco

Any place I visit, it is always one of the most important tasks to find the best Mexican restaurant in town. Something about the bustling atmosphere, chips and queso, and the sizzling sound of fajitas coming out to a neighboring table makes you feel right at home. With various weekly specials, Agave Loco is sure to have a crowd nearly every night of the week. Whether you are just trying to grab a quick bite or celebrating a birthday with a large group, this is the Mexican spot for you. This is truly a place where locals, students, and families come to gather in fellowship with customer service that makes you feel like you are a part of the Auburn family. Stop by and dine at Agave Loco on your next trip to Auburn, and you might just find me there!

-SeAnna Graddy, Auburn Class of ‘23

Little Italy Pizzeria

Little Italy in downtown Auburn

Craving pizza and just want a slice? Look no further… Little Italy is the place to go. A few shops down from Toomer’s Drugs on Magnolia Avenue is where you can find this Italian gem. Open daily, Little Italy offers lunch specials from 11am-3pm, serves New York style pizza (by the slice or pie), calzones, strombolis, sandwiches, salads, and even has tasty ranch dressing! This is the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat between classes or a meet-up with friends at the end of the day.

-Heather Rodgers

Niffers

Corn nuggets with honey mustard

Are you craving corn nuggets and a great atmosphere? Then I have the place for you! Niffer’s Place is an Auburn staple that has been loved by students and community members since 1991.  While their famous corn nuggets are a fan favorite, Niffer’s offers a variety of menu items from burgers to chicken to sandwiches. It is a tried-and-true casual dining hit. Niffer’s is also known for Singo Bingo, which is held every Wednesday and Trivia that is held every Monday night. Be sure to check out Niffer’s website to learn more and visit their location at Lake Martin if you are in the area!

-Bree Davis

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New Major Spotlight: Public & One Health

The new Public and One Health (PAOH) undergraduate degree program in the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine is a unique public health curriculum that utilizes One Health as its guiding principle. This holistic approach prepares graduates to proactively devise and implement solutions to pressing local and global health issues, preparing undergraduate students for entry into public health positions, as well as graduate or professional programs.

By highlighting the One Health concept throughout the curriculum, students will obtain a comprehensive public health education that emphasizes the interconnectedness and mutual interdependency of humans, animals and the environment, recognizing that human health can only be improved if the health of animals and the ecosystem are concurrently addressed.

Diverse faculty from multiple scientific fields across the Auburn University campus will provide expert instruction to foster deeper insight into organismal and environmental health, and how various systems coexist and change together. The Public and One Health undergraduate degree program will educate future health professionals to take a transdisciplinary approach that establishes a conceptual framework of the complex web of factors affecting health.

There is a strong demand for professionals with bachelor’s-level public health training and this employment demand is projected to increase both regionally and nationally. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected change in job placement opportunities for public health professionals over the next decade is expected to grow faster than the national average for other professional fields.

PAOH students may choose various electives depending on interests and career goals. Program graduates may begin working in entry-level careers in public, animal or environmental health. Or if interested in attending medical, veterinary, or other professional or graduate programs, all prerequisite academic requirements for those programs can be completed within the credit hours required for this major.

Public and One Health also offers a Minor in Public Health open to all majors as well as an Honors Minor in Public Health. When offering advice to prospective students, Kynslie Barnett, said this of the Public and One Health programs:

“I would tell any student that was thinking about pursuing either of these degrees to try out the first class and I promise they will be immediately pulled in and intrigued! Once you take your first Public Health class, you start to see public health in every single thing you do because it truly applies to everything in the world around us. I encourage every student that is curious to just go for it and they will be so happy they did! The knowledge and skills you will learn through this degree are applicable to everything you do in your life from now on.”

Contact Information:

Webpage: aub.ie/paoh

Email: paoh@auburn.edu

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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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What is SGA at Auburn?

At Auburn University, every individual student is valued, and their voices are prioritized. The Auburn Student Government Association (SGA) exists to enrich each student’s experience by serving and advocating for them, and aiming to unify all aspects of the Auburn community. Through every decision and goal we make, we strive to uphold our mission of “Serving and promoting the individual student, unifying all that is Auburn.”

SGA comprises of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches, and all SGA teams work diligently throughout the year to fulfill its mission. As we transition into the spring term, our new SGA team for the 2024-2025 school year is enthusiastic about formulating our goals to serve the student body while enhancing the Auburn experience and fostering a sense of family.

In late summer, our Freshman Forum applications are available to incoming first-year students to get plugged in to SGA as they are stepping foot on campus. Freshman Forum serves as representatives of the freshman class, with their main objective to gather feedback from peers and ensure their concerns and experiences are heard. Members of the Freshmen Forum participate in a mentorship program alongside Cabinet members, acquire various aspects of professional development, and collaborate on projects dedicated to enhancing the freshman experience.

Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for the Lobby Board, which serves as a crucial link between the University and governmental entities. Lobby Board members play a pivotal role in advocating for positive change at Auburn University, fostering relationships with local, state, and federal representatives, and educating one another on contemporary issues affecting our community, state, and nation.

Everything SGA works to do lies in the efforts of wanting to amplify the voices of Auburn students and improve the student experience for each individual. We have established Auburn Answers (aub.ie/auburnanswers) as a platform where students can voice their concerns, suggestions, and feedback. All Auburn Answers submissions are reviewed by members of SGA and taken to upper administration.

In the upcoming year, we are dedicated to expanding upon these initiatives and strengthening our outreach efforts to better serve the Auburn community.

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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.