By Christopher Roberts
Dear students,
Welcome to Auburn University! We are excited to have you on campus. You are now a part of a community that the Princeton Review ranked, based on student ratings, as one of the Top 10 universities in terms of one of the “Most Loved Colleges” with a “Great Quality of Life,” “Friendliest Students” and the “Happiest Students.”
My goal is for Auburn to be known for creating the best student-centered experiences in the nation. An Auburn education is not solely based on the academic content that we provide to our students. The in-class content is, of course, crucial. But it must be coupled with extraordinary experiences we provide outside the classroom. This will help you be successful as a student, but it also sets the foundation for a lifetime of success.
We place considerable emphasis on ensuring that our academic programs, and student support systems, provide transformative learning experiences and a quality “Auburn Experience.” I want every interaction that you have – from your Camp War Eagle experience until I shake your hand and congratulate you at graduation – and all of the thousands of touch points in between – to be exceptional.
To get the most out of your college experience, I encourage to get involved in your major and in your classes. Make the time to get to know your professors. They are experts in their fields, who love what they do and can serve as wonderful mentors. Also, get to know your academic adviser. This person is a crucial resource when navigating your major and selecting your courses to ensure you graduate on time. These relationships will be instrumental as you advance through your academic coursework.
I also encourage you to get involved in student organizations. Your Auburn experience is what you make it. With more than 550 campus organizations, there’s at least one that’s a perfect fit. Our campus organizations are a great way to meet other students and learn valuable skills that will help you succeed after graduation.
Lastly, take advantage of all of the free activities and opportunities that we have on our campus. Attend a lecture with one of the world’s most distinguished scholars, business leaders or innovators. Attend a play or a concert. Take a walk through the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center or Davis Arboretum. Cheer on our Auburn Tigers at a sporting event. See the collections at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Don’t leave the Plains without making the most of every opportunity available to you on campus.
I welcome you to the Auburn Family and look forward to seeing you around campus.
War Eagle!
Christopher Roberts currently serves as president of Auburn University, a role he began in May 2022. He was previously dean of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering and a professor of chemical engineering.
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