Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity. Between Auburn programs and third-party provider programs, the options for places you can go and what you can study are almost limitless! BUT before you can go, there are things to consider and several steps that must be taken to ensure you are well-prepared academically, financially, and personally.
Step 1: Eligibility and Program Requirements
While looking for a program to participate in, you should look at what credits are being offered, what term you would be going abroad, the location of the abroad program, the length of the program, and the pricing. All of this will be located on the Brochure page of the program you are interested in! On the Brochure page, you will be able to see any prerequisites that may be needed for the course you will be taking while on the program, GPA requirements for both undergraduate and graduate students, and specify any other requirements that may be needed. Auburn University requires that all students studying abroad meet a minimum of 2.25 collegiate GPA for undergraduates and a 3.0 for graduate and professional students. Additionally, study abroad participants are required to have no pending Student Conduct or Title XI actions.
Step 2: Complete an Applicationor Registration
Once you have found a program that you are interested in participating in, you will begin an application with the Auburn Abroad office. If you are applying to an Auburn program, you will complete the application for the specific program you are interested in. If you have found a third-party provider program, you will complete a Non-Auburn Program Registration. There will be several pre-decision materials that you will be required to complete in order to submit your application, and you will want to read through these items carefully. One of the most important parts of the application will be completing the Course Approval Form or the Transfer Credit Form. These forms will ensure that you can earn credit for the courses that you take while abroad.
Step 3: Campus Partners
Don’t let the price of your program be a deterrent. There are multiple options available for you to potentially help pay for the program. If it is an Auburn program, you can often use Auburn scholarships or financial aid you may already be receiving. You will need to get in contact with Student Financial Services as well as the Office of University Scholarships to discuss the possibility of applying your aid to your program. There are also other scholarships available through Auburn University to study abroad on Auburn Programs. You can locate these by visiting the Auburn Abroad website and browsing the Finances page. For both Auburn and Non-Auburn programs, there are numerous external scholarships available too. If you are a Pell Grant recipient, one great option is the Gilman Scholarship. Make sure you look at the deadlines for all scholarships you are planning to apply for so that you do not miss the opportunity!
Step 4: Wait for Acceptance and Commit to your Program
Once you have submitted your application or registration with Auburn Abroad, you are in the pending phase. Once reviewed, your application with either be approved or denied. You will be notified via email of your application status and, if approved, what the next steps will be. For those approved, you will need to log back into your application portal and either “commit” or “decline” your spot. Please be aware that at Auburn University once you click the commit button you are 100% financially responsible for the program, so we strongly encourage you to do your research, think through this decision, and discuss it with any other individuals that make up your support team at home.
Step 5: Complete your Application and Prepare to Go Abroad
Congrats! You have committed to your program and are ready to finalize your preparations. These preparations include completing your Auburn Abroad Portal which covers information about your flight, passport, emergency contacts, pausing your meal plan, etc. You will also need to attend a Pre-Departure Orientation session hosted by Auburn Abroad prior to departure, as well as a Site-Specific Orientation hosted by your program. Figuring out the logistics isn’t the only way to prepare to go abroad, however. You will need to start preparing yourself to be abroad. Researching your host country will be exceptionally important so that you know what to expect from local climate/weather to cultural norms and expectations. Understanding culture-shock and strategies for navigating an unfamiliar place are important. In addition to the internet, consider reaching out to others and learning about their experiences as well as speaking to your program director and/or third-party provider.
HCOB Students abroad in Costa Rica, Spring 2023
Step 7: Go Abroad!
Hooray! Your bags are packed, plane ticket and passport are in hand, and you have completed all the requirements and preparations to study abroad. You’ve worked hard to get here and now it’s time for the fun part, it’s time to go abroad!
By Grace McNairy, Command Sergeant Major, War Eagle Battalion
Auburn University is unique in the fact that we have all three branches of ROTC. Within the Air Force ROTC programs, cadets have the option to serve in either the Air Force or Space Force. Students in the Naval ROTC have the option to serve in the Navy or the Marine Corps.
The Army ROTC program is the oldest program on campus and was established in 1872 through the Morrill Land- Grant Act. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps with the signing of the National Defense Act of 1916. Auburn Army ROTC is a four-year program in which students earn a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant. The War Eagle Battalion has had many notable graduates throughout the years. Some of them include Coach Ralph “Shug” Jordan ‘32, Congressman William Nichols ‘39, Astronaut COL (R) Jim Voss ‘72, LTG (R) Ronald Burgess ‘74, NFL Hall of Famer Kevin Greene ‘84, LTG (R) Darsie Rogers ’86, Olympic Gold Medalist Ruthie Bolton ‘89, and LTG Flem Walker ‘87.
Joining Army ROTC at Auburn has been the best decision I have ever made. Throughout my time as a cadet, I have met people who will be my friends forever. The War Eagle Battalion has given me numerous opportunities to expand my leadership and experiences. After my junior year, I attended Cadet Summer Training (CST) at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Cadets from all over the country descend on Fort Knox to test their skills among their peers. There are 11 regiments with roughly 600-800 cadets in each regiment. At CST, all of your training from day one of freshman year to that point is tested. For three years, you will have attended physical training 3 to 4 times a week, Military Science classes twice a week and leadership lab on Wednesdays which has prepared you to perform at CST.
Auburn ROTC is one of the best battalions in 6th Brigade producing future leaders for our Army. The stakes are high for cadets in the War Eagle Battalion. We are traditionally one of the top performers in the brigade and expect a lot from our cadets. A typical week as a cadet includes physical training 3 mornings a week, 2 classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays and leadership lab on Wednesday. Once a semester, we attend a Field Training Exercise (FTX) at Fort Benning, GA. Due to our proximity to Fort Benning, we are awarded numerous training opportunities.
Throughout my time in the War Eagle Battalion, I have learned so much. Peer leadership is hard, everyone knows it, but it is not impossible. Through ROTC, I have been given opportunities to practice leading my peers. My confidence has grown exponentially throughout my time in the War Eagle Battalion. The lessons I have learned in ROTC has translated to my involvement on Auburn’s campus. Last year, I served as my panhellenic sorority’s president. The lessons I learned from peer leadership helped me lead my sorority.
The opportunities I have had throughout the years are unmatched compared to my peers. Over the past two summers, I have spent time at Fort Knox, Kentucky expanding my leadership abilities. Throughout my time at Fort Knox, I was tested mentally, physically and emotionally. After my time at Fort Knox, I attended Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) this past summer. At Fort Campbell, I was attached to 3-187 IN, 3BCT, 101st ABN DIV where I spent a month learning from an Infantry Platoon Leader. While at Fort Campbell, I participated in numerous ranges, CDQC and a helocast.
May 7th, I will commission into the US Army as an Active-Duty Aviation Officer. I would not be the leader or person I am today without the War Eagle Battalion. I highly encourage any student who is thinking about joining ROTC to join and give it a try.
Life as an Auburn Army ROTC Cadet in the words of Jackson Bowman
Throughout my four years at Auburn, Army ROTC has opened the door to more opportunities and life experiences than I could have possibly imagined. First and foremost, it is where I met my future wife as well as some of my best friends. It has also given me a base of people with whom I can network further on down the road. The shared experiences of being rained on in the field, freezing cold and blazing hot temperatures, and funny stories told have made my Auburn experience more full and better than the average student’s. ROTC also paid for my college which I am eternally grateful for. Being an out-of-state student and having my entire tuition paid for is a blessing that I cannot emphasize enough. Finally, upon graduation, I will commission as an Aviation 2nd Lieutenant. Having a job immediately after college is another aspect of ROTC that I am grateful for and one that I did not fully understand until my senior year. Overall, I would highly recommend Auburn Army ROTC to any student at Auburn or any high school senior looking to attend here. While there are some stressful and hard moments, the perks of being an ROTC cadet substantially outweigh any and all the cons. War Eagle and Above the Best!!
Lucy’s located in Auburn AL, is known to be a modern American neighborhood eatery. With locally sourced food made from the heart, Lucy’s continues to be one of the most loved and sought out restaurants in town. The dainty and bright interior with a warm southern flair compliments the experience itself while the exterior is simple and elegant. The employees are attentive, professional, and genuine throughout dining at Lucy’s and look to accommodate anyone’s needs. Known for their truffle parmesan French fries and juicy steak frites, many find that the food is consistently cooked to perfection. Additionally, Lucy’s has a variety of fresh caught seafood including a catch of the day, raw oysters, and scallops. A unique trait about Lucy’s is that it changes out its menu routinely to practice new techniques and incorporate new ideas on their menu. If you thought that sounded good, you are in for a treat. On Saturday and Sunday from nine to two, Lucy’s provides an innovative and tasty brunch menu. Not only are they serving mimosas and bloody Mary’s but also meals like smoked salmon tartine, chicken and waffle Bennie, and shrimp and green chili grits. The kitchen staff takes pride in introducing new flavor combinations as well as a fresh ingredient to level up recipes. Lastly, the restaurant is accompanied by a top shelf bar, extensive wine list and fantastic cocktails. Lucy’s is a must try when visiting Auburn, Alabama! -Shea Labbato
Momma Goldberg’s
Momma G’s is an Auburn favorite that was founded in 1976 right here in our college town! There are locations all over the state of Alabama and a couple in Georgia, but nothing beats the original location on Magnolia Avenue!
Photo courtesy of Momma Goldberg’s Deli
They’re known for their world-famous Momma’s Love, their delicious nachos, and other steamed sandwiches. In addition to the classics, you can also get a wide array of wraps, soups, and salads. Momma Goldberg’s is a perfect lunch spot during the week and even better on gamedays in the fall! The history, the flavors, and the atmosphere all make Momma G’s an Auburn staple.
My go-to order is the turkey delite with a side of Momma’s nachos and a cherry Coke (which goes perfect with their nugget ice)!
Photo Courtesy of Momma Goldberg’s Deli
If you’re on the Plains and looking for an Auburn classic, be sure to check out the original location and get yourself a Momma’s Love! -Ansley Phillips
Photo Courtesy of Trip AdvisorPhoto Courtesy of The Depot
If you’re looking for a fine dining option to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or just a good time with friends, look no further than The Depot! Located in a former train depot in downtown Auburn, this spot has a unique atmosphere as guests are able to enjoy the passing trains while dining on some delicious food. Originally built in 1847, the train depot has been a prominent location for much of Auburn’s history. The restaurant today features the original black and white tile floors and heartwood pine train platforms from this historic Auburn landmark. A great option for lovers of seafood, The Depot boasts the “Finest and Freshest Seafood” in Auburn and has received the James Beard Smart Catch Leader Award. The menu changes seasonally and provides a variety of options. Featuring items such as oysters, fresh fish, and sushi to a wagyu burger, chicken, or steaks, the food is always incredible. My personal recommendation is the Spicy Blue Crab Dip appetizer. Whatever you decide to get, you will not be disappointed. Make sure to visit The Depot the next time you’re in town! -Haylee Dorrill
Umami
Photo Courtesy of GrubHub
Umami is a fantastic choice for off the beat eating. With traffic, it will take around 14 minutes to get there which makes it a great spot to eat when you are coming from campus. Umami specializes in fresh ingredients and delivering on the umami flavor that the name suggests. Since it is a pacific rim restaurant, Umami’s menu ranges from traditional Indian dishes and high quality sashimi and sushi to wonderfully seasoned Asian courses. Personal recommendations would be the Seattle teriyaki chicken, butter chicken, or (if you want to splurge) the filet mignon fried rice. I highly recommend having this restaurant as an option in your arsenal of restaurant recommendations for family/friends. Umami truly is a treasure that is often overlooked by popular chain restaurants around it, but I have a feeling that it is going to be receiving plenty of new regulars in the fall. -Cole Irwin
Your college experience is exciting. When you live on campus you get the opportunity to build relationships and foster a community. Living on campus can also be challenging, but Auburn University Housing (AUH) is here to provide some essential things to know about on-campus housing.
1. Stay Up To Date With Communications Sent By AUH
It is important for both current and incoming residents to stay up to date with all communications sent out by AUH. The majority of our updates and reminders will be sent to students via their respective Auburn University email address. We recommend students check their AU email weekly for important messages from AUH.
2. Be Familiar With Your Resident Assistant (RA)
Your RA is there to make your on-campus experience more enjoyable. Make time to meet your RA and introduce yourself. If you need help in your hall, reach out to your RA. Keep an open line of communication with them. RAs will also host programs monthly to help build community.
3. Choose The Best Space For You
We want your resident experience to feel like home. It is important that you choose the best space for you. AUH offers a variety of different residence hall styles at different price points. Students should research the different options we have available. We also have tours every day of each of our residence halls. If you cannot make it to campus, students can also view our residence halls by checking out our virtual tours.
4. Get To Know Your Roommates
Whether you already know your roommate or you are meeting them for the first time on move-in day, living with another person can be an adjustment. It is important for you to choose a roommate you feel you will be compatible with and set ground rules with each other. More than likely, your roommate will be great!
5. Utilize Your On-Campus Resources
By living on campus, you are within walking distance of all of Auburn’s on-campus resources. Take advantage of your close proximity to everything. Many of our residence halls are within walking distance of the campus rec, the library, and our dining halls.
Living on campus can be an exciting time for our students. Auburn University Housing offers multiple different options to make sure our residents feel at home. To stay up to date with AUH make sure you continue to check your university email and follow us on social media @housingatau.
The application for Fall 2023 is now closed, decisions are out, and we are wrapping up the current admissions cycle. This means that the Fall 2024 application will open before we know it, likely on August 1st. Admission to Auburn is highly competitive, and our application numbers have significantly increased over the past 2 years. We received more than 48,000 applications for the Fall 2023 term, and 50% of applicants were accepted. The average GPA of admitted resident students is a 4.04 compared to a 4.2 for non-residents. For ACT, the average score for admitted resident students is a 26.2 compared to a 29.3 for non-resident applicants. You can find the SAT equivalencies here. We do not prefer one test over the other. We did have a test-optional pathway for Fall 2023. This pathway included a 3.6 minimum GPA requirement to be eligible to apply without test scores, and was a much more competitive applicant pool. About 12% of our admitted students were from the test-optional pathway for Fall 2023. We do not know yet if there will still be a test-optional pathway for Fall 2024.
We will know details for the Fall 2024 admissions process sometime this summer. Once that information is released, you will be able to find it here. If the process is similar to Fall 2023, these are our biggest tips to set yourself up for success in the application process:
Test now. Take the ACT, SAT, or both, and take them multiple times if you can. It can take weeks to get your scores back, so if you are hoping to meet our first deadline (which was September 15th last year) you will need to test by no later than this summer to have scores. We did consider superscores (ACT and SAT) for admissions and scholarship purposes for Fall 2023, and anticipate that we will consider them again for Fall 2024.
Finish out your junior year strong. GPA is one of the strong factors considered for admissions purposes. Your GPA from freshman through junior year is what will be reviewed. Auburn considers a weighted, cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale and will recalculate your GPA to our scale if a weighted GPA on a 4.0 scale is not provided.
Apply early. Be ready to apply in the first round. The rounds became increasingly competitive for Fall 2022 and Fall 2023, so we recommend applying earlier rather than later. Traditionally, we have multiple rounds of Early Action decisions with deadlines occurring during the fall semester. Students had to apply and be accepted in our Early Action rounds to be eligible for any Auburn scholarship as well as the Honors College. Acceptance timing also impacts on-campus housing, as living on campus is not a requirement for freshmen AND it is not guaranteed.
Anticipate the cost. Current tuition costs can be viewed on our website along with the Cost Calculator. The Cost Calculator helps families see their expected cost of attendance based on the information they input. It’s important for families to get an idea of cost of attendance and potential scholarship opportunities early in the process. Students will be considered for Academic Merit-Based scholarships if admitted in an Early Action round. These scholarships are based primarily on test score and GPA. The different award amounts can be viewed on our scholarship website here. Students can also apply for general and departmental scholarships through the AUSOM scholarship application after being accepted in an Early Action round. Scholarships are not guaranteed, so students should keep this in mind when considering the cost as well. We also encourage students to pursue external scholarships.
Set realistic expectations for yourself. Our academic profile of admitted students has increased over the past few years, and our acceptance rate has changed due to the increase in application numbers. We use our average GPAs and test scores for previous years as guidelines, but each year the applicant pool competes with itself. This can make it difficult to predict the likelihood of acceptance for any given year. Keep in mind that there are many pathways to Auburn, and an Auburn degree is still possible even if not admitted as a freshman. The transfer pathway is a great option for students to consider. Transfer requirements can be viewed on our website here.
Reach out to your admissions advisor. Our admissions advisors are here to help you however we can throughout the process! You can find your advisor here. The last thing we want is for students to make assumptions and miss deadlines or other opportunities because they waited to ask or just never asked at all. We are just a phone call or email away, so please don’t think twice about reaching out to us!
The College of Sciences & Mathematics (COSAM) offers degrees across five departments, including Biological Sciences, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Geosciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Physics. COSAM also houses the majors for Biomedical Sciences. The college has approximately 2,800 students, including more than 2,400 undergraduate students and more than 400 graduate students, along with over 150 faculty and 40 staff members. In addition, the college is home to research clusters in biophysics and discipline-based education research, and averages more than $18 million in research funding annually, including multiple NSF CAREER Awards each of the last several years. The College of Science & Mathematics educates a significant number of undergraduate and graduate students while also playing a critical role in the core curriculum across the entire university. The college is second among all colleges in the number of student credit hours taught, with nearly 154,000 in the 2021-22 academic year.
COSAM students continually receive accolades and awards. COSAM students have been recognized as USA Today Academic All Stars, Gates and Goldwater Scholars and many more. With more than 70 percent of our students as Biomedical Sciences majors, our college prepares students to pursue their dreams of helping others through the medical profession:
COSAM students are consistently accepted into professional schools at a rate of more than 30 percentage points higher than the national average
Approximately 98 percent of COSAM graduates in professional school programs reported that they are better prepared than their peers, regardless of where the others went to school
Biomedical Sciences applicants who used the Pre-Professional Application Course (PPAC) earned an average MCAT score of 512, which is in the 85th percentile and 11 points higher than the national average
COSAM has a long-standing commitment to enhancing diversity in STEM fields – its original Office of Multicultural Affairs was created more than 20 years ago and continues through the current work of the college’s Office of Inclusion, Equity and Diversity. While the college has made great strides through these efforts, there are departments that continue to be underrepresented in the number of faculty who are female and people of color. The next dean must bring a deep commitment to ensuring an environment that fosters inclusion, equity and a sense of belonging for all faculty, staff and students. This individual should have an understanding of the historical challenges of diversity in STEM fields and strategies and initiatives for advancing diversity.
Amya LaGrand Mathematics Columbus, GA
Professional Goal:
To become a Math professor
How would you describe your COSAM experience?
I am currently a senior here at Auburn University and I am majoring in Mathematics. I transferred to Auburn as a Sophomore from a local community college. My experience in COSAM has been eye-opening. COSAM offers opportunities for professional and academic growth for all students in the college. I wished since the time I stepped foot on campus 3 years ago until now that I would have gotten more involved with extra curriculars than I am now. I have enjoyed my time in COSAM so much that I have decided to continue my education here at Auburn with a master’s degree. Every instructor I have had throughout my major has always been helpful and willing to meet with me outside of class hours to better help me understand the material, whether it has been through attending meetings in their office or Zoom calls. These interactions have allowed me to build relationships with professors and grant me the opportunity in the future for referrals and letters of recommendation. Another great thing about COSAM is the free tutoring sessions offered to undergraduate students for courses in COSAM. Students have access to several resources to succeed in their classes. For my final year in my undergraduate degree, I have worked as a Peer Advisor for COSAM. I have had the chance to work with the academic advisors and see the work and dedication they put into student involvement. They are always hosting events for students to join and learn more about the opportunities that are beneficial for them during and after their 4 years of school.
What advice would you give an incoming student?
My advice for future students is to make friends quickly with people in similar majors. I learned that classes are more enjoyable with people you have a great relationship with. It makes it easier to create study groups too. I have seen an improvement in my grade this past year.
Manie Castagneto Senior majoring in Biomedical Sciences, Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, with a concentration in Pre-Physician Assistant & a minor in Leadership Huntsville, AL
Professional/academic goals:
A professional goal of mine is to help the younger generation understand all the resources available to them and I plan to achieve this through my leadership roles and my academic goals of graduating from Auburn and then pursuing a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies.
What have you enjoyed about your student leadership role?
During my time in my leadership role as a peer advisor, I have enjoyed getting to know other competitive professional school candidates. I transferred to Auburn my junior year, so many of my class sizes were large, and it made it harder to interact on a more personal level with my peers.
What surprised you about COSAM?
The amount of support from the academic advisors in COSAM has surprised me. I knew to be successful at Auburn I would need the support from my academic advisors, but the amount of support they pour into the students astonishes me. Working alongside the advisors now, it’s clear that we are not just students passing through college to them, we are the future, and they make sure we are accounted for.
Kamden Coleman Chemistry ’26 Atlanta, GA
Professional Goals:
To be determined
What do you like about your COSAM experience?
I really enjoyed the COSAM Summer Bridge STEM Program. This program allowed me to learn about the campus, understand expectations from COSAM and Auburn, and feel a sense of comfort about Auburn. I was able to meet some classmates and instructors in small group settings prior to starting fall classes. Additionally, my COSAM instructors have been very strong, and I am learning a lot. The instructors are knowledgeable and caring. COSAM offers lots of events to help you think about and shape your career pathway. I feel like this will be very helpful in my future. There also appears to be a lot of support readily available for students.
What is your favorite Auburn University tradition?
I enjoy hanging out in the COSAM study area, the cafe, and playing intramural basketball. If I had to pick one, intramural basketball is my favorite. I have played organized basketball for as long as I can remember, so playing here at Auburn feels second nature. Playing basketball makes me feel relaxed and welcome. Not only do I enjoy the workout, but the game forces me out of my shell to meet new people who share a similar interest of basketball. I am glad this is an option for students at Auburn. You can find me every Thursday playing intramural basketball at the rec center!
Owen Harris Biomedical Sciences: Pre-Medicine with a minor in Business Auburn, AL
Professional goals/next step:
To attend the UAB Heersink School of Medicine
What has been the most rewarding/challenging course?
Biochemistry I and II were the most challenging courses I participated in at Auburn. They were detail-oriented and required students to develop a deep understanding of the material. I spent countless hours writing out pathways and working hard to strengthen my knowledge. The subject matter expanded on familiar concepts more than ever, and much of the material was new. Managing the demanding coursework alongside a job, research, and involvement proved to be an additional challenge. Although a formidable set of courses, they provided numerous benefits. The depth of my knowledge translated to subsequent classes and made me feel extremely confident preparing for the MCAT. Beyond an academic standpoint, studying for these courses with my peers allowed us to build strong friendships that have stayed with me.
What are the benefits/perks of being a COSAM student?
The community within COSAM is unlike any other on campus. As a student, you are surrounded by peers who are working toward similar goals as you. We strive to support each other and ensure that we can all succeed. Friendships you make as a COSAM student will persist through the challenging and exciting times that make up your time as an Auburn student. The professional staff further ensures your success by providing students with numerous academic, leadership, and social opportunities. From the drop-in study sessions in the Office of Inclusion and Diversity to the welcome week events put forth by the department, there are plenty of ways to feel at home and supported by COSAM. My calling was to work in COSAM’s Office of Student Services. Each day, I have the opportunity to impact students while strengthening my relationships with our incredible staff.
Ashtyn Phillippi Microbiology Pre-Med Lafayette, LA
Next Steps:
I am going to be attending LSU Shreveport School of Medicine in the fall.
What are you involved in outside of classes?
Outside of class, I am a COSAM Leader, Peer Advisor, and Diamond Doll. I am also involved with Project Uplift and the Auburn Wesley Foundation as the missions chair.
How would you describe your COSAM experience?
My COSAM experience has been beyond rewarding. Every single professor that I have had in COSAM was constantly willing to go the extra mile to help their students feel comfortable with the material. I also have loved being able to give back to the college by guiding students to find what they are passionate about and supporting them in their times of need.
Why do I love Auburn? Affectionately known as the Loveliest Village on the Plains, Auburn is home to some of the happiest students in the nation (according to Auburn students, the Auburn Family, and Princeton Review’s list of the Top 20 Colleges with the Happiest Students). Known for its friendliness and tightknit family atmosphere, Auburn University is one of the best universities in the nation. As an Auburn alumnus and admissions advisor, I may be a little partial 😊 but …what’s not to love?! It truly is lovely!
As an admissions advisor, prospective students regularly ask many questions like why they should choose Auburn or what is so special about Auburn. While each student will ultimately choose Auburn for their own individual reasons, my response is always that Auburn’s students make Auburn so special. When you tour campus and speak with our Student Recruiters, you’ll experience their energy and excitement. Their strong love for the small college town that they now call home is palpable. When prospective students and their families return home from a campus visit, they rave about how amazing and how genuine and friendly the Auburn students were to them. From a random student asking if the family needed help finding a building or location on campus to their tour guide helping with food recommendations, Auburn students recognize visitors and actively help them while on campus. They know that they were in the same shoes just a year or so earlier, and they want to help prospective students and their families in the same way a current Auburn student helped them when they were touring campus.
Prospective students and their families have such an unexpected and unique experience when they visit campus, I often hear that there must be something in the water in Auburn. We don’t have orange and blue water yet, but we’re working on it! 😊
Auburn students not only help prospective students and visitors, but they truly take care of each other. If you’ve been keeping up with the blog, you’ve most likely seen the AU Creed series. If not, I highly recommend reading through that series. The Auburn Creed gives insight into what Auburn students live and feel every day. Auburn students have a great way of staying on top of their academics all while making the most of their college experience by getting involved. They take full advantage of the many amenities and academic support services available to them so that they can remain mentally and physically healthy and happy.
Auburn students also take full advantage of attending the many athletic events. When attending a sporting event, regardless of the outcome, Auburn students end each event shouting “It’s great to be an Auburn Tiger!” at the top of their lungs. Students then lock arms and sing the alma mater together which is an awesome experience. Win or lose, any day as an Auburn student is the best.
From your first campus visit when you feel like you’ve found your home, through graduation and getting your first job, to remaining lifelong friends with your freshman year roommates; Auburn stays with you your entire life. Auburn students know this and take full advantage of the time they have on campus. Hopefully you’ll get to talk to an Auburn student soon to learn why they chose to attend Auburn and what they love about Auburn. Hopefully you’ll be a part of the Auburn Family and shout “It’s great to be an Auburn Tiger!” soon too. Then you’ll be able to share your Auburn story with another family one day!
Nursing is a calling to serve others! As a new cohort of students begins classes this semester, current students are preparing for graduation and beginning the next phase of their careers as registered nurses, doctors of nursing practice, faculty members and nurse scientists.
For Kylie Snyder, a native of Pelham, Ala., Auburn University felt like home the minute she stepped on campus. “Not only do I feel supported by my friends and my school, but even the surrounding community has a genuine love for the students in this town.”
Why Nursing?
Becoming a nurse has been a dream of mine for years, and every opportunity I’ve had that exposed me to this field has further shown me that this is the career to be in. It allows me to cultivate skills such as kindness, communication, and leadership. I’ll always be able to financially support myself with endless opportunities in a high-demand profession.
Since the first day, AUCON has provided me with an even better experience than I ever imagined. Nursing school is a whirlwind, and even as a second semester student, I can tell it’s going by fast. Although the days are often long and filled with hard work, I love every single minute of it.
Class size:
My cohort is about 82 people, and it’s a great size! The lecture halls in the school are equipped with microphones for the professors, and I’ve always been able to clearly see and hear them. We usually have about 4-5 students per instructor for technical and hands-on skills, giving us an opportunity to ask questions and to practice our skills in a safe and enriching environment.
Favorite Part of Nursing?
My clinical experiences! Connecting what I’ve learned in class and in lab to a real patient has been immensely rewarding, and I love that what I’ve learned in school has allowed me to directly make a difference in my patients’ lives!
Campus Activities:
As secretary and incoming vice president of the Pediatric and NICU Club, as well as a member of Student Nurses Association, I have had the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the surrounding community, and I cannot think of anything more rewarding than that. Being a part of these clubs has helped me develop leadership skills, gain a community of fellow students with common interests and has allowed me an outlet to be creative in the work I do.
Future Plans:
While I’m trying to keep an open mind to all the possibilities, there is just something about working with a pediatric population that gives me “heart sparkles!” I love being around kids, their families, and creating relationships I can cultivate with this specialty. I hope to be a travel nurse for a few years after graduation and then would like to get another degree either as a nurse practitioner or a nurse anesthetist. Whatever I do, I know that Auburn will have prepared me and helped shape me into the best nurse possible.
Axel Moreno, from Phenix City, Ala., remembers telling his parents, teachers and friends about where he wanted to go to college even as a little kid — Auburn University! “It is a renowned institution and is committed to helping students succeed. Becoming an Auburn student is one of the best decisions I have made.”
Why Nursing?
I chose nursing because it is a career that is centered around helping, serving, and caring for others. It is not simply a job but a calling for those who want to shine a light of hope on patients who are going through challenging times. My passion to serve others sparked a desire in me to pursue nursing at Auburn University.
Classes in the program:
The classes here are amazing and instructors make learning captivating and interesting. I have learned many nursing skills and have grown so much as a person and student. Like all nursing students, I have faced challenges and struggles throughout my time in nursing school, but if you are willing to put in the time and effort, you will be successful.
Class sizes vary. There are a little more than 100 students in our lecture classes. However, our faculty make time for each of their students by holding open office hours and answering any questions students have during or after class. In the simulation lab, the class size is close to 20 students and the instructors work closely with us when we practice nursing skills.
Clinical experience is what I have enjoyed most about the program. Our clinicals can range from educating elementary students on the importance of oral hygiene to starting IV lines. Clinicals are designed to give us confidence in our practice. We get incredible hands-on experience and the ability to apply our knowledge and practice nursing skills on patients.
Campus activities:
I serve as the treasurer for the Auburn chapter of American Association for Men in Nursing. This organization focuses on providing a framework for all nurses, students, and other key members to meet, discuss and influence factors that affect men in nursing and men’s health. As an orientation counselor, I help guide students as they begin their first semester in nursing school.
Future Plans:
After passing the NCLEX, I plan to work in an ICU to care for critically ill patients, because caring for these patients with complex conditions is fulfilling to me. After I have gained a few years of nursing experience, I plan to return to school to receive a doctoral degree in nursing practice. I hope to become a critical care nurse practitioner and continue my practice in the ICU.
Kaitlyn Gallaspy, a Madison, Ala. native, fell in love with Auburn University when she spent much of her growing years watching Auburn football games with family. When it came time to apply to college, she sought a university that would challenge her academically yet would still feel like home.
“Auburn University has an incredible community of the most encouraging and loving people that I have ever met. As a concurrent degree student pursuing bachelor’s degrees in both Spanish and Nursing, Auburn University could not have been more ideal!”
Inspiration:
My grandmother was my biggest inspiration to pursue a nursing career. She is the embodiment of an inclusive nurse, consistently going above and beyond to care for all people, not just her patients. Healthcare settings can be incredibly intimidating for anyone, and it is important to acknowledge how societal prejudices can impact patients negatively. I recognize my privileges, and I want to be a nurse to actively combat against these injustices to help all patients feel comfortable, cared for, and heard during a vulnerable time. Learning Spanish during my time as a student has allowed me to communicate with so many more patients in the clinical setting.
AUCON experience:
My experience at the Auburn University College of Nursing has been a dream come true. Starting nursing school can be intimidating, but the faculty makes an incredible effort to make all students feel welcome and support them during their time in college.
The class size of each cohort allows for so many special friendships. It is large enough that you can be with new people in each clinical group, but small enough that the cohort feels like a family. The AUCON community is my favorite thing about the program. Nursing school is an exciting time, but it is no secret that it is very challenging as well. Having a support system is critical because you can build relationships with people who understand exactly what you are going through.
Campus Activities:
I am involved in many organizations such as the Social Media Chair of AUCON Student Wellness Committee, PR/Communications of Auburn Student Nursing Christian Fellowship, Member of Pediatric and NICU Club, Member of Student Nurses’ Association, Member of Initiative for Representation in Nursing, Counselor of Summer Transition into Excellence Program, Member of Sigma Theta Tau (International Honor Society of Nursing), and Member of Sigma Delta Pi (National Honor Society of Spanish).
Future Plans:
After I graduate, I plan to move to Birmingham and work as a Registered Nurse in a critical care setting. I also plan to become a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) as well as a Certified Medical Interpreter in Spanish.
Spencer Gilland from Dothan, Ala., grew up in a house divided between Auburn and Tennessee fans. He was pretty sure that he wanted to go to Knoxville as he had visited the city several times, but his mom convinced him to tour Auburn. “I am so glad she did because the Auburn community and campus were so welcoming and inclusive, truly making it feel like a second home.”
His Inspiration:
I chose nursing because when I was younger, I spent a lot of time with my grandma, who was a nurse. She worked in hospice on the weekends and used to take me with her. I met so many nice people and saw the difference she made in people’s lives, and I wanted to do the same.
AUCON experience:
Nursing school has completely changed my life in so many ways. It is by far the most challenging but rewarding experience of my life. I have made lifelong friends and had amazing clinical experiences. I have also met staff that has your back and wants you to succeed. Each semester in the program I have grown not only in my knowledge but also as a person.
Our class size is perfect! It is large enough to not feel like you are in a bubble but small enough to get to know a lot of people closely. I have definitely enjoyed the opportunity to meet amazing people including instructors, peers, employees and patients.
Campus Activities:
I am currently the president of the Auburn Chapter of the American Association of Men in Nursing (AAMN) as well as a member of the Student Nursing Association (SNA). I also competed with my team and won the Dean’s Fitness Challenge last semester.
Future Plans:
I am interested in either working with the pediatric or psychiatric populations.
Kennedy Mason, from Dallas, Texas, is the first person in her family to attend Auburn.
“As a junior in high school, I came to Auburn with my mom for a college tour and absolutely fell in love with the city’s charm! I felt a sense of belonging and knew this was the place for me. I was also lucky enough to convince a few close hometown friends to tag along to attend college with me all the way in Alabama!”
Why nursing?
I am fascinated by science and human anatomy. I have always been interested in working in the medical field, and throughout high school I debated over whether I wanted to attend medical school, PA school or nursing school. A combination of shadowing experiences, volunteering at hospitals, and a nurse who greatly impacted me and my family (after the loss of a loved one) influenced my choice to become a nurse. I strongly value the community and “human touch” aspect of nursing, establishing rapport with patients, and having the opportunity to impact patients beyond just treating their medical diagnosis.
AUCON experience:
The past two years have been full of incredible amounts of personal growth, exciting opportunities, and challenges as well. I am so thankful for all the knowledge I have gained as well as challenges I have faced in nursing school because I have learned so much about myself in the process and feel confident going into the work world as a new nurse.
What have you enjoyed most about the program?
My cohort is around 85 people, the perfect size! Small enough to where we are all familiar with one another but still big enough to have the opportunity to branch out and make new friends.
I have loved the community, family feeling AUCON provides. Whether it’s spending 12-hour clinical days together, late night studying, or even hosting your clinical group at your family’s home for out-of-town clinical, the feeling of comradery is indisputable. I have formed relationships with classmates and instructors (I may never have met outside of AUCON) which I believe is truly unique and special.
Campus Activities:
I’m a member of SNA (student nurses association), Pediatric and NICU Club and IRN (Initiative for Representation in Nursing). As Vice President of Outreach for IRN, I reach out to organizations in the Auburn/Opelika area to coordinate events such as community health fairs. As a student employee on the Diversity Education and Engagement team in Auburn’s Office of Inclusion and Diversity, I work on a team (of students and staff) to develop and lead diversity training sessions and luncheons for student organizations.
Future Plans:
I graduate from Auburn in May 2023, and I hope to find a nursing position at a children’s hospital in either the ICU, ER or hematology/oncology.
2022 was a big year for Auburn University. The Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center opened its doors in August, which also included the opening of the Hey Day Market. This food hall is named after one of Auburn’s traditions, “Hey Day“, and holds nine unique vendors serving everything from burgers, to poke bowls, to gelato. Students are able to use their dining dollars here, so it’s a place that both the campus and the community can enjoy!
The Woltosz Football Performance Center, which opened at the end of 2022, is Auburn’s new football training facility. This building includes indoor and outdoor practice facilities, a state of the art 25,000 square foot weight room, a locker room with zero gravity chairs, a barber shop, a 3D printer, an underwater treadmill, and much more.
In downtown Auburn, construction is well under way for a new Target. This is expected to open in spring 2023. Target will be located on the ground floor with 32 apartments located on the top 3 floors of the building. Auburn residents and students are eagerly awaiting the completion of this exciting addition to downtown!
If there is one thing that our office loves to do, it is to convince students that studying abroad can be for them! We’ve heard it all in terms of why a student might think that studying abroad isn’t for them, so we’re here to dispel a few common study abroad myths!
The Camino de Santiago in Northwest Spain
Myth No. 1 – I Can’t Afford to Study Abroad!
Sometimes, when students see program fees for study abroad programs for the first time, they are overwhelmed and feel like studying abroad is inaccessible for them. In reality, there are plenty of resources in and outside of Auburn that can minimize the cost of studying abroad. For many Auburn custom programs, students already receiving AU scholarships and financial aid can apply those resources to their study abroad programs. Additionally, scholarships such as the Gilman Scholarship are available to support Pell eligible students in studying abroad. (Students interested in applying for the Gillman can receive application resources from our office!) Finally, a quick web search can offer countless resources on third-party scholarships that can be applied to AU and Non-AU study abroad programs. Needless to say, finances do not have to be a barrier to studying abroad and getting an experience of a lifetime!
Myth No. 2 – I’ll Miss Out on Too Many Things While I’m Abroad!
Every year, over 1,000 Auburn University students participate in a study abroad program through the University or another provider. These experiences are once-in-a-lifetime, academically enriching, and make students stand out in future professional environments. Despite all of these benefits, it is completely normal to feel like you’re missing out on “regular college life” while you’re abroad. Just remember that you are gaining an amazing, cultural experience that those back home are not. Try to focus on living in the moment and participating in all the fantastic things that going abroad has to offer!
Monkeys in Kathmandu, Nepal
Myth No. 3 – I’ll be Going Alone and Won’t Know Anyone!
Much like transitioning to college for the first time, studying abroad alone can initially be an intimidating thought. This intimidation is only exacerbated when you do not know the other students in your program. In reality, studying abroad without people you know can be a great learning experience outside of your comfort zone! You and the other members of your program are typically in the same boat – this is your first time traveling without family or friends, and you’re not sure how you will connect with your classmates. What typically ends up happening amongst all the excitement of being in a different country is that you and your classmates will find common interests, go on excursions together, and generally just start connecting. Before you know it, you’ve formed relationships on a program that you would never have had without studying abroad!
Myth No. 4 – I’ll Struggle Because I Don’t Know the Native Language!
Not knowing the native language of the country you are traveling to doesn’t have to be a barrier to studying abroad. English is one of the most spoken languages in the world, being the official or unofficial language of many countries. In fact, most institutions have courses completely in English! Also, all Auburn custom programs are taught by Auburn professors in English. That said, it’s still useful to at least attempt to learn the language of the country that you study in. Oftentimes, locals will take your attempt to communicate in their language as a sign of respect and genuine interest, so they won’t mind that you may have botched a pronunciation or two! Worst comes to worst, traveling with a translator app on your phone can always come in handy, particularly when you’re in a rush and need to communicate with someone quickly.
Myth No. 5 – My Major Isn’t Offered Abroad!
All majors can be studied in a different country, it’s just a matter of finding a program that offers a curriculum for what you study! Some AU Programs are non-major specific, meaning that students in any discipline can participate and receive credit. If Auburn doesn’t offer a study abroad program for your major, you can look to a third party provider program that will have additional course offerings and credit that can be transferred back to Auburn. If you know you want to study abroad and have specific academic needs, doing outside research or meeting with a member of the Auburn Abroad staff can be a great first step to point you in the right direction.
Parque de El Retiro, Madrid, Spain
These are just a few myths that many students believe about studying abroad. If you are even just the least bit curious about studying abroad we highly encourage you to attend Study Abroad 101 or to schedule an advising appointment with our office so that we can answer your questions and debunk any other myths you might believe!
