<p>i can only share my own experiences, but i’ll try to be helpful. AU by its history has gone from a party school for the diplomatic “rich and famous” to a heavy-hitting academic instituiton that is very competitve, and getting increasingly so. its DC location as well as its comfortable location in the residential, embassy-row area make it desirable. my d and her friends are highly academically oriented; at this point she is trilingual, is completing second internship and is studying abroad.
interestingly, my friends have thought AU to be TOO serious and pre-professional! so i guess it’s all about perception. most kids at AU have a passion for their varied interests and if they don’t know where they are headed, find out soon enough! it is internationally known for IR, but offers many other programs. it has a highly international flavor, unlike many other schools. it scores high on its career and counseling center as well, which gets kids off to a good start with resumes and internships.
i think the classrooms and dorms are par. better than some, tho not the “hotel” accomodations with maid service of GWU! 
my d got into an apartment setting by second year, and many do so , as the cost is not so different from dorm prices, with a lot more for your money. my d has always loved the “green” of AU yet in a city location.
hope i’ve helped. feel free to PM me! best to you and your d.</p>