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 three night, two 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 50 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. There is also evening programming each night, highlighting the rich and unique culture of DC through local performers.