Introduction
In ancient Rome, the atrium was at the center of a home. An open court, an atrium was used as a gathering place, providing light and ventilation for the rest of the interior. In modern times, the atrium has evolved into a multi-storied open space that often features large windows. Battelle-Tompkins Hall’s atrium, the large, light-filled heart of the building, is where students and professors come together to exchange ideas, review essays, present papers, celebrate successes, or quietly study. Atrium: Student Writing from American University’s College Writing Program embodies the spirit of the Battelle Atrium.
This year’s collection brings together student writing of varying styles and purposes, from editorials, to feature essays, to scholarly arguments. The diversity and depth showcases the dynamic, smart writings American University students create in their College Writing classes. Over the past two years, the collection has grown into a central text for our courses, presenting models, sparking discussions, and providing inspiration. As one professor explained: “Atrium has been a huge hit in my classes. These last two years my students have really loved reading and discussing the essays. What’s more, for my final essay assignment, a scholarly argument, each student has to identify a scholar that they’re modeling their essay on–at least five students this semester used an essay from Atrium rather than an academic scholar. How cool is that?”
This collection would not be possible without the committed work of our editorial board’s careful, thoughtful readings of all the submitted essays and their attention to detail. Thank you to professors Amanda Choutka, Mary Switalski, and John Hyman for your hard work and dedication. Thank you to all the professors who submitted student essays; without you, Atrium wouldn’t exist. Finally–and most importantly–thank you to our students who continue to surprise and inspire us.
Stina Kasik Oakes
Editor-in-Chief