<p>DeskPotato, I think the students at AU are more laid back and just less urban in their style and orientation, if that makes sense. S felt a bit of an outsider at GW because so many of the students were very affluent, with money to burn, always eating out, shopping, clubbing, etc., none of which was his style. That’s of course an over-generalization, but it was his impression, and part (just a part) of what induced him to transfer. I think AU has a more nurturing environment (has definitely been the case for my D), and perhaps for that reason attracts students who could use a little nurturing, as opposed to GW, which I’d say attracts a more independent type. I think an overnight at each school would really bring out the lifestyle differences to your D. I do see some comparison between Brandeis and AU in that they each offer a suburban campus environment with easy access to urban offerings, if and when desired. It depends on the student, of course, but for some an urban environment can be hectic and alienating, for others stimulating and exhilirating. (BTW, D was accepted to Brandeis and turned it down–it’s off-topic here, but feel free to PM me if you wants my thoughts on that school.)</p>