Auburn University is known for its vibrant traditions, spirited campus life, and rich history. From rolling Toomer’s Corner to hosting one of the oldest veterinary schools in the South, Auburn has a host of fun facts and quirky customs that set it apart from other universities.
Founding and Historical Background
Auburn University, originally named the East Alabama Male College, was founded in 1856. It became the first land-grant college in the South under the Morrill Act in 1872. Over the decades, Auburn has evolved from a small, church-affiliated institution to a major public research university, now enrolling over 30,000 students. The university officially adopted the name Auburn University in 1960, reflecting its expanded academic mission and offerings.
Unique Traditions and Campus Customs
Auburn is famous for its unique traditions, many of which are tied to school spirit and athletic events. Here are some of the most beloved:
- Toomer’s Corner: After significant athletic victories, especially football, students and fans gather at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and College Street to throw rolls of toilet paper into the oak trees at Toomer’s Corner. This ritual is so iconic that it draws national attention and has been practiced for decades.
- War Eagle: The battle cry “War Eagle” is shouted by Auburn fans as a greeting and during games. The origin of the phrase is debated, but it has become an integral part of Auburn identity.
- The Auburn Creed: Written by George Petrie in 1943, the Auburn Creed is recited at many university events and expresses the core values of the Auburn family.
- Hey Day: Each fall, students celebrate Hey Day, a tradition where everyone wears name tags and greets each other with a friendly “Hey!” It’s designed to foster a sense of community and belonging.
The Auburn Family Spirit
One of Auburn’s most distinctive features is its emphasis on the “Auburn Family.” This term refers to the close-knit, supportive community that students, faculty, alumni, and fans experience. It’s not uncommon for people connected to Auburn to greet each other anywhere in the world with a warm “War Eagle!” The sense of belonging extends beyond graduation, as many alumni remain deeply involved in university activities and traditions.
Campus Landmarks and Points of Pride
The Auburn campus is home to several notable landmarks and beautiful spaces:
- Samford Hall: The university’s most iconic building, Samford Hall features a clock tower and is often featured on Auburn merchandise. Its chimes play the university’s fight song daily.
- Toomer’s Oaks: The original oak trees at Toomer’s Corner were poisoned in 2010, but new oaks were planted and the tradition continues. The oaks are a symbol of resilience for the Auburn community.
- Jordan-Hare Stadium: With a seating capacity of over 87,000, it’s one of the largest stadiums in the country and the site of memorable football games and events.
- Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art: This museum features works by renowned artists and hosts cultural events, adding to the campus’s vibrant arts scene.
Academic Excellence and Unique Programs
Auburn is not just about fun and tradition—it’s also known for its academic strengths. The university offers more than 150 majors across 12 colleges. Some unique aspects include:
- Veterinary Medicine: Auburn’s College of Veterinary Medicine is the oldest in the South and one of the oldest in the United States. It is renowned for its research and teaching.
- Engineering: The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering is one of the largest in the country and has produced numerous notable alumni, including astronauts and CEOs.
- Architecture: Auburn’s architecture program is highly ranked and offers students a hands-on experience through the Rural Studio, a design-build program that serves underserved areas of Alabama.
Sports and School Spirit
Auburn is a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and boasts a storied athletic tradition. The Auburn Tigers have won national championships in football, swimming and diving, and equestrian, among other sports. The Iron Bowl, the annual football game between Auburn and the University of Alabama, is one of the most intense and historic rivalries in college sports.
Beyond football, Auburn’s swimming and diving programs have produced Olympic athletes, and the women’s equestrian team has multiple national titles. Auburn fans are known for their passionate support, filling Jordan-Hare Stadium and other venues for games and events.
Notable Alumni and Achievements
Auburn’s alumni network includes prominent figures in sports, business, politics, and the arts. Some well-known graduates include:
- Tim Cook: CEO of Apple Inc.
- Bo Jackson: Heisman Trophy-winning athlete and the only player to be named an All-Star in both Major League Baseball and the NFL.
- Octavia Spencer: Academy Award-winning actress.
- Jimmy Wales: Co-founder of Wikipedia.
These alumni exemplify the diverse talents and ambitions nurtured at Auburn.
How Auburn Compares to Other Universities
Auburn University is often compared to other large public universities in the Southeastern United States, especially within the SEC. Its blend of strong academics, passionate athletics, and vibrant traditions distinguishes it from many peers. Auburn’s campus is noted for its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful landscaping. Unlike some larger institutions, Auburn maintains a strong sense of community, which is frequently cited by students and alumni as a key reason for choosing the university.
In terms of cost, Auburn is a public university, so in-state tuition is more affordable compared to private institutions. Out-of-state students pay higher tuition, but the university offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make education more accessible.
Common Misconceptions About Auburn
One common misconception is that Auburn is only about football. While athletics are important, the university has a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. Another misconception is that Auburn is located in a rural or isolated area. While the city of Auburn is smaller than some college towns, it is a vibrant community with a thriving downtown, diverse restaurants, and cultural events.
Some also believe that Auburn’s traditions are exclusive or hard to understand for newcomers. In reality, the university prides itself on being welcoming, and many traditions are designed to include and engage all members of the Auburn family.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Toomer’s Corner, and why do people roll the trees?
Toomer’s Corner is a historic intersection on Auburn’s campus where students and fans celebrate major victories by throwing toilet paper into the oak trees. It’s a joyful tradition symbolizing school spirit and unity, dating back decades. - What does “War Eagle” mean?
“War Eagle” is Auburn’s battle cry and a universal greeting among Auburn fans. Its exact origin is debated, but it represents the university’s spirit and is used at games, events, and even as a friendly hello among Auburn people everywhere. - Are there any unique academic programs at Auburn?
Yes, Auburn is home to the oldest veterinary medicine program in the South, a nationally recognized engineering college, and the Rural Studio in architecture, which gives students hands-on experience in community design. - What is Hey Day?
Hey Day is an annual tradition where everyone on campus wears a name tag and greets each other with a cheerful “Hey!” It’s meant to promote friendliness and a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. - Who are some famous Auburn alumni?
Notable Auburn alumni include Tim Cook (CEO of Apple), Bo Jackson (sports legend), Octavia Spencer (Oscar-winning actress), and Jimmy Wales (Wikipedia co-founder). - Is Auburn only known for football?
No, while football is a big part of Auburn culture, the university is also recognized for its strong academics, research, and other sports like swimming and equestrian. Its traditions, academic programs, and alumni achievements make it much more than just a football school.
Visiting Auburn: What to See and Do
Visitors to Auburn’s campus can experience the university’s traditions firsthand. Popular stops include Samford Hall, Toomer’s Corner, the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, and the Donald E. Davis Arboretum. Guided tours are available for prospective students and guests, offering insights into campus history and student life. On game days, the campus comes alive with tailgating, Tiger Walk (where fans cheer on the football team as they enter the stadium), and a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Conclusion: The Auburn Experience
Auburn University stands out for its blend of academic excellence, cherished traditions, and community spirit. Whether you’re drawn by the excitement of rolling Toomer’s Corner, the pride of shouting “War Eagle,” or the prospect of joining a supportive campus family, Auburn offers a unique and memorable college experience. Its history, campus life, and alumni achievements ensure that there’s always something fun and fascinating to discover about Auburn University.