William and Mary vs. American University?

So, I'm torn between applying to William and Mary and American University. Anyone have any experiences or opinions to share on these two schools? I'm looking for insight on their overall atmosphere, academic programs, and strengths. If it helps, I'm undecided on my major. Thanks!

While both William and Mary and American University are excellent schools, they have distinct differences in terms of atmosphere, academic programs, and strengths that could help you understand which one suits you best.

Atmosphere:

William and Mary is located in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, and is often praised for its tight-knit community and beautiful campus. Students frequently mention the strong sense of tradition and the unique experiences available thanks to the historical setting. On the other hand, American University is in Washington, D.C., and offers a more urban environment. Students at American University benefit from various internship opportunities, political events, and access to cultural institutions in the nation's capital.

Academic programs:

William and Mary, as a public research university, offers a well-rounded liberal arts education with particularly strong programs in government, history, and biology. They also have the joint degree program with St. Andrews University in Scotland, which is quite popular among students interested in international experiences. In contrast, American University is a private institution with renowned programs in international relations, political science, and communications. The location in D.C. plays a significant role in the strength and practicality of these programs.

Strengths:

William and Mary excels in creating a supportive learning environment with close student-faculty interactions. Students tend to value the quality of teaching and small class sizes. Being one of the oldest schools in the U.S., it holds a prominent reputation and strong alumni network.

American University's strengths lie in its practical learning opportunities, especially for those interested in political or international fields. Students have easy access to internships, networking events, and guest speakers. Its School of International Service is considered one of the top schools for international relations.

Considering these factors, if you prefer a university with a strong sense of history, tradition, and a close-knit community, you might lean towards William and Mary. If you're interested in politics, international affairs, or communications and want to experience an urban setting with numerous professional opportunities, American University might be a better fit. Since you're undecided on your major, you can also explore each school's course offerings and extracurricular activities to see which aligns better with your interests. Ultimately, consider visiting both campuses (if possible) to get a firsthand feel of each school's atmosphere. Good luck!