Testimonials

Veronica WernsmanLone Tree, Colorado

I fell in love with AU the second I stepped on campus during preview day. Everything from academic rigor to location to activities offered checked all of my boxes. So when I got accepted into the Cornerstone Program I was so excited. I decided to go to the UK and that decision is one of the best that I have made. This unique opportunity taught me so much about myself as well as gave me the skills to succeed in the future. It was such an cultural immersion and I would recommend it to anyone who gets the opportunity. I am currently an SIS major and intend on making my regional focus Europe.

DANA PICCIRILLOMerrick, NY

I chose Cornerstone UK because I wanted to step completely out of my comfort zone for my first semester of college. I wanted to learn, grow, and mature while also immersing myself into an entirely new culture. That is exactly what I did! I have made so many close friends, and gained the confidence to continue getting involved both on and off campus. I am currently balance being a part of Greek Life and interning at a non-profit.

McKenzie BeardKeizer, OR

When I received my letter of admission into the cohort of Cornerstone UK, I was immediately filled with questions. What kind of classes would I be taking? Who would I be going with? Could I really make it on my own for three months in a different country? In retrospect, I took classes that piqued my curiosities and encouraged me to explore the world around me. I made some of my closest friends, and to this day we reminisce and laugh with one another about our adventures. Ultimately, I didn’t just “make it” in another country--I thrived. Cornerstone UK was the best possible way to start my college experience in every facet, and I’m grateful for the opportunity, and my decision to take a chance on myself, every day.

ALLISON TOVARStamford, CT

It may seem intimidating to spend your first semester in a foreign country, but take the leap! Living in a new culture not only expands your knowledge of the world, but of yourself. You learn where your comfort zone is and just how far you can really push that, while creating bonds that literally last overseas. Now that I'm on AU's campus, I spend time in the Katzen Arts Center writing music, and tutor two children at a local elementary school. Growing independent during the program has greatly prepared me for life at AU.

EMMA DIONWest Newbury, MA

I always knew I wanted to go to American University for its Journalism program and its well-known department of Performing Arts (I'm a double major in Musical Theater and Journalism). When I was offered the chance to go abroad my first year of college, I could not pass the opportunity up. I mean, who wouldn't want to travel to the beautiful countryside of the UK for a semester? My experience with Cornerstone UK has truly been the highlight of my life so far, and I wouldn't change anything about my time in the UK. I'm so glad I chose AU and Cornerstone UK.

KIYOHIDE NOGUCHIHonolulu, HI

I never imagined that I would go to the east coast for college, nevertheless studying abroad in the UK as a freshman! I thought it was going to be pretty scary in the UK (this program marked my first time going to Europe), but the people I hung out with and met in the UK exhibited the spirit of 'aloha' I was already familiar with. As of now, I'm thoroughly enjoying my time in AU and ready to pave my way through. I can assure that you won't regret studying abroad in the UK!

GRACE GARDONELouisville, KY

As soon as I received the letter that I was accepted into American University's Cornerstone Program, I knew it was an opportunity I could not pass up. AU had given me the opportunity to study abroad during my first year of college, and that was only the beginning! My experience was everything I hoped it would be and more: I met new people outside of my own familiar culture, I explored four different European countries, I learned more about myself, and I grew a network of 23 other students I can always fall back on. After I returned to the States, I decided to change my major to Business, Language, and Culture to keep exploring different people and cultures. Cornerstone Abroad has given me an unforgettable experience that no other institution can match.

SARA AMEENBristow, VA

I chose Cornestone UK because I was ready for a new experience in my life and could not give up such a great opportunity to travel and learn about another culture. Being in the UK for 3 months helped me mature by learning to live on my own without my parents and provided me with experience and knowledge that I could not have found elsewhere; such as emerging myself in the history of the area and going to Prague, Czech Republic, on a weekend and witnessing the culture and history there as well. I am currently enjoying my life at AU studying International Relations as well as being involved in the AU Symphony Orchestra. I am excited for my future at AU!

MADELEINE PRICEFredericksburg, VA

Currently, I am in the School of International Service majoring in International Relations. I chose AU because of the wonderful opportunities it offers to its students. Cornerstone UK intrigued me because it gave me the chance to expand my horizons, literally! During the program, my friends and I tried our best to learn about British history and culture. I’m now on campus at AU studying and involved in AU Players.

ISIDRO RAFAEL SANTA MARIAArcadia, CA

I chose AU because I am interested in studying international relations and foreign policy. I was part of Cornerstone UK because I knew that studying the UK my first year would be a once in a lifetime opportunity. In addition to the academic content, our semester abroad included a wide variety of excursions and trips to various parts of the UK. Currently, I am continuing work towards a major in International Studies and a possible minor in Spanish.

ERICA WINSTONAtlanta, GA

I chose Cornerstone UK because I really couldn't turn down studying abroad my first year, and I was really excited to experience a culture separate from my own. I've enjoyed coming back to AU and getting involved with dance and exploring another new city! I am interested in studying veterinary medicine and am currently majoring in biology.