Since 1990, the Freshman Service Experience (FSE) has been a tradition that celebrates the spirit of service at American University. More than 7,280 students have participated, working to turn ideas into action and action into service.

The Freshman Service Experience is a four-day program built on community service, academic changes, leadership development, and orientation to American University and Washington, D.C. During the day, student-led volunteer groups work at about 40 different nonprofit work sites throughout the city. In the evenings, participants meet with faculty, alumni, deans, community leaders, and policy makers to discuss how the work they have done in the community relates to the academic challenges that lie ahead.

AU takes pride in being a private university with a public responsibility and emphasizes making use of Washington's varied resources. FSE introduces first-year students to this tradition. Not only will you gain firsthand experience in addressing real community problems, but you will also get to know the campus and the city's metro system.

FSE is the foundation for the service experiences at American University. We offer a wide range of community service and volunteer programs dedicated to helping students make a difference.