How many students are admitted to the program?
We will enroll applicants on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is the deadline for accepting the admission offer?
The priority deadline for reserving your spot is May 1, 2013, and the final deadline is May 10, 2013. Please note that space is limited; we can only enroll a limited number of students. To reserve your space, you need to complete an application form and submit a $600 deposit. Please return your completed application form to mentorship@american.edu and also send us a copy of your high school transcript.
Can I still double major?
This is something that you will want to discuss with your academic advisor at Brandeis.
Who will be the professors?
The professors are American University faculty with dual-appointments with the School of Professional and Extended Studies and AU's School of International Service (for Cross-Cultural Communications) and School of Public Affairs (for Politics in the U.S.).
In addition, College Writing professors hold appointments in the College of Arts & Sciences. Elective professors all hold appointments in their respective schools at AU.
What is the seminar like?
The seminar courses, Cross-Cultural Communications and Politics in the U.S., are each two-part courses. The first class meeting each week will be in the classroom, and will be a combination of lecture and discussion in classes of between 20-30 students. The second class meeting of the week will be a site visit and/or a guest speaker.
What requirements must be met for the practicum?
There are no prerequisites for the Mentored Field Practicum.
How are students placed in their Mentored Field Practicum (Internship)?
WMP does not place students in internships; students are given the tools to place themselves in an internship. Over the course of the summer students are given access to resume builder software and then work with program staff to fine-tune their resume. Students are then given access to the SPExS Internship Database, which has the largest collection of internship offerings in the DC area. Students may then start applying to internships posted on the database over the summer, though this is optional. On the first day of class students attend our annual Internship Bazaar, where we typically have over 100 organizations come to AU in search of interns. Many students get their internship through contacts made at the bazaar. Finally, students can work with the WMP office and their MFP professor to secure an internship.
How does the internship help first-year students?
You will start to make contacts, build credentials, and gain real-world experience through the mentored field practicum. Internships are available in areas of interest ranging from politics and justice, communications, international affairs, psychology, and arts & sciences.
How will credits transfer?
All credits received will transfer with you to Brandeis. All electives must be pre-approved by Brandeis and students must earn a minimum grade of C- in their classes.
WMP grades will not appear on your Brandeis transcript or factor in to your Brandeis GPA.
Can Mentorship students use AU student services?
You will have full access to all AU facilities and activities. These include computer labs, library, fitness center, swimming pool, clubs, etc.
Can first-year students bring cars?
First-year students, including those from Brandeis, are generally not allowed to bring cars. Under special circumstances students may be granted permission, but this must be arranged with campus transportation services.
Is it mandatory to have a meal plan?
All first-year students are required to have a minimum 150-block meal plan, however, you may also opt to have a larger 200-block meal plan, or the super plan, which has unlimited meal swipes at the Terrace Dining Room. Students living off-campus are not required to have a meal plan.
What are the student health care options?
D.C. law states that all students must have health insurance - through their parents or through AU. If you have insurance by way of your parent’s plan, you can waive AU Health Insurance through your myAU.american.edu portal.
How will Fall Semester housing assignments be made?
The Housing & Dining Programs office at AU will determine housing assignments. You will receive roommates' names and information over the summer.