It’s not all about politics here at American University. Well, it mostly is, But AU offers quite a few clubs on campus for those who want to branch out of the political sphere. Interested in gardening, belly-dancing or Doctor Who? American university has a club for you.
Check out 10 clubs at AU that fulfill every obsession from your green thumb to your Netflix-binges.
1. Community Garden
When people envision American University and Washington D.C., they usually picture marble and monuments. AU’s Community Garden club is working to change that perception one plant at a time. Each Saturday, members meet together to dig up weeds, plant flowers and share vegetables to improve their community. Student Manager Noa Banayan said they regularly partner with groups focused on the environment, but their main goal is to provide a volunteer opportunity for students. “Besides club rugby or something like that, I doubt you can get as dirty as you do in the garden with any other campus organization,” Banayan said.
2. Students for DC Statehood
This club is about as “D.C.” as a club can get. The never-ending political debate over D.C.’s statehood inspired students to create their own organization to turn the tides of the argument. In the past 2016 election, students were given a chance to campaign on a statehood advisory referendum which was passed with 86 percent of the votes. “AU Students for DC Statehood serves as a way to connect students with Washington, D.C.,” said the club’s president Noah Wills. “By working with American University students from all over the country, this seemingly local issue can gain national attention—something it desperately deserves.”
3. Les Coeurs D’Afrique – AU Diasporic Dance Team
This dance group sets itself apart by fusing African culture with dance. The team’s numbers continue to grow as their talent becomes more recognized. The dancers come from a variety of dance backgrounds, including cheerleading, hip-hop, ballet, step, gymnastics and even track. “With this variety we try to properly reflect who we are and what we were showcasing: how African Dance as found its way into all aspects of movement all over the world,” Jones said. “At our core and in our hears we give respect to Africa and how the continent continually contributes to dance. This is why we will always be Les Coeurs D’Afrique.”
4. Pitches be Trippin’
Dream of having your own Pitch Perfect experience? Try Pitches be Trippin’. This all-women group aims to create a community for female singers on campus. The group has 18 members who generate their own arrangements and work across genres. “We go above and beyond each semester to support each other musically, academically and personally to make us each the best that we can be,” said Michela Rynczak, the public relations chair for the group. The members agree. “What makes us special is that we are authentically ourselves! We are so much more than a singing group. We’re a magnetic force, a community that runs on music and love! We are joy and happiness and what music is at its core,” said senior Kui Mwai.
5. Doctor Who @ AU
The club’s title says it all. This one-of-a-kind group meets together to discuss their passion for all things Doctor Who. They seek to engage current viewers of the popular show as well as to entice new students to join in their devotion to the doctor. For those interested in attending, they hold meetings each Saturday at 7 p.m. Interested in becoming an officer? You’ll be happy to know that each position has its own Doctor Who relevant name. For example, the secretary goes by Ms. Delfox, the vice president is TARDIS and the president is, of course, The Doctor.
6. AU In Motion
This dance group, also known as AUIN, competes in nearly all genres of dance. From contemporary and tap to hip hop, jazz and belly-dancing, dancers gain expertise in all styles. Love choreography? No worries. AUIN holds auditions for dancers and choreographers to come work with them. Auditions are currently open for anyone for people looking to perform a self-choreographed solo, duet or trio. Dancers from all different backgrounds and levels or experience are welcome.
7. Second District Records
Second District Records operates more like a business than a club. Second District Records gives artists in D.C. a chance that they might only find in places like Los Angeles or New York City, but this organization comes with very high commitment level. “You better be prepared to sit in on studio sessions until 2 a.m. and wake up the next morning in time for your 8:55,” said senior Ron Jordan. “You better be ready to prepare these artists for everything that will be thrown at them as they make their art a profession, because that’s what you do if you want to work in the entertainment industry: You take any chance you get and give it everything you have.”
8. American University Ballroom Dance Club
This club welcomes experienced dancers and newbies alike. According to Club President Rebecca Chevat, the group teaches members a variety of styles including the Cha Cha, Rumba, Waltz, Tango and Swing. “The ballroom club is unique because all students and levels of dance are welcome to participate! There is no experience needed,” said Chevat. The more advanced dancers are encouraged to help lead the new members and teach them what they know, so don’t be intimidated if you have two left feet.
9. Outdoors Club of American University
Did you know that American University sits close to many beautiful hiking locations? Probably not. AU Outdoors intends to fix this misconception and get AU Wonks out into nature. They hold varying events throughout each semester both on campus and outside of the city. The club serves to not only provide an escape from the noisy city, but also as an educational opportunity for people who otherwise may have not gone out into the great outdoors. AU Outdoors also works with other clubs on campus to generate hiking trips, bike rides and even a rock wall climbing event.
10. Gospel Choir
Open to both undergrad and graduate students, American University’s Gospel Choir has been an active organization on campus for over 40 years. While the group typically performs Christian music, they are actually an ecumenical and inter-faith organization. Interested in catching a performance? Catch the choir singing at AU basketball games, nearby nursing homes and churches. The have also performed concerts at Georgetown University and even the Bronx in New York.
