We are writing to share some exciting updates regarding AU’s efforts to recruit and enroll prospective students. The participation of our entire community—especially faculty and staff—will be key to our success in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape. Thank you for your continued engagement with this critical work.

Expanded New Student Orientation and Call for Volunteers
We are committed to ensuring that every student feels prepared as they embark on their AU journey. This year, in addition to providing enhanced virtual programming throughout the summer, we are expanding the in-person New Student Orientation from one to four days. 

During this time, students will attend a series of required sessions packed with valuable resources; immerse themselves in campus life; forge connections with fellow students, faculty, and staff; and discover the vibrant energy of Washington, DC—all before the fall semester begins.

In order to make the four-day New Student Orientation model a success, we are kicking off new student move-in Saturday, August 17 through Monday, August 19. Please join us in welcoming the Class of ‘28 by signing up for one shift (or more!). 

Sign Up for Move-In and Orientation – August 2024

We have also scheduled Opening Convocation for the morning of Friday, August 23 and request your help in cheering for our incoming class as they process into Bender Arena.

Weekly Newsletter for Incoming First-Year Students
As we reimagine our plans for incoming students, we are taking steps to streamline and better target our communication. New Student and Family Programs is initiating a weekly newsletter with relevant and actionable information connected to the AU New Student Checklist. In the coming weeks, they will reach out to colleagues across campus to coordinate content that will keep students on track leading up to orientation. 

Signature Admissions Events Move to Weekends
Lastly, the Office of Enrollment has hosted its large undergraduate recruitment and yield events (e.g., Preview Days, Admitted Student Days) on weekdays. While these events have served us well, we have not returned to the levels of attendance we enjoyed before the pandemic. Moving forward—based on feedback from prospective students, families, and guests—we will be shifting most of AU’s large signature events to the weekend to maximize accessibility. 

As soon as they are confirmed, we will share upcoming dates with our campus partners and post them on our admissions website. We hope that you will make yourself available on these occasions to help showcase all AU has to offer.

We know that improvements to the onboarding experience will have a positive impact on student retention, success, and thriving and are grateful for your partnership in making these important changes.