Reviews

This is my first semester and I'm taking six classes and I've definitely learned a lot. First thing I learned is not to take six classes, especially not your first semester. It's a big load, but I'm handling it well and I love my classes. I'm in intro psych and my class is run like a typical high school class with hand raising and participating, and it's only fifty kids, so there's always a way out of the 270 lecture classes.

My only complaint is the language department. Perhaps it's just my class, but the Spanish course I'm taking is not very good. I took Advanced Spanish and AP Spanish all throughout high school and I feel like I'm just maintaining my abilities since the class seems a bit disorganized and the professor isn't great. Although I am also taking French and the class is amazing.

It's definitely an adjustment, but everyone will go through those awkward weeks no matter what college or university you end up going to. The transition from high school to college is difficult since you leave home, your friends, your family, your comfortable life, and then you're thrown into a new environment. It's going to be hard anywhere. Even though sometimes I miss my friends or I'm not having a good time, I still love it here at GW and I love being in DC.

I joke that GW is so expensive because we're paying for extra class time, not for vacations. And it's true. We don't have many vacation breaks (no fall break) and the ones we do have are short. But really, it's not a big deal because it's an excuse to make your friends visit you (you save money) and who wants to spend a month sitting around home anyways (you'd get bored).

But remember that you're not just paying for an education, you're paying for an experience and it's definitely worth it. The internships and networking opportunities are incredible. Recently I've seen the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Junot Diaz, and Optimus Prime (they were filming Transformers 3 car chase scenes down the street from my dorm) and I know people who have volunteered with Michelle Obama on the National Day of Service (9/11) and gotten to go to a Town Meeting with Obama.

If you're set on GW apply early because it's getting more and more competitive. My class was the most competitive they've ever had and it will only get more competitive. I think my class of 2350 was picked out of 21000.

Visit! GW isn't your typical college or university. It doesn't have a traditional dining hall (we do have J Street and many other vendors), there isn't a typical college feel, and nobody really knows where the campus begins and ends (Who knew you could have labs on K Street?). It's more of a city feel than I expected. On the college-y feel spectrum from NYU (big city school) to Bates (small NESCAC college) it's between NYU and UPenn, UPenn being more of a college-y feel.

Make sure you also ask your tour guides anything you're dying to know. They're very helpful.

Political people (duh): There's always some rally going on. Move in day coincided with Glenn Beck's March to Restore Honor, two weekends ago there was a huge liberal rally, and in two weekends Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert are having their March to Keep Fear Alive/Restore Sanity.

International Affairs Majors: The Elliot Schools is highly regarded, one of the top ten IA programs in the nation I believe. Also students get so much exposure to international affairs because of all of the international students and because we're surrounded by embassies. And people really do trick or treat.

Work hard play hard: You'll find a range of students at GW and you'll sometimes ask yourself How the hell did she get into this school? but overall GW students are smart kids. They weren't the kids who shut themselves in their rooms on Saturday nights studying, but they got good grades while having a good time.

LGBQTS (and any other letters I left out): There are so many gay guys here. It sucks for girls, especially since so many of the gay guys are nice and cute (and they dress well).

Although GW is big enough that you can find your niche anywhere. You can be a hipster, a frat bro, athlete, Republican, or any stereotype you can name. Even though we're in DC, people don't talk politics all the time, though I'm sure if you wanted to, you could easily get yourself into a debate over whatever was most recently announced on CNN.

George Washington University is a private, co-educational university primarily in the Foggy Bottom section of Northwest, Washington, DC. Its proximity to various important governmental and financial landmarks such as the White House, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and the headquarters of the United States Department of State makes it one of the top 3 schools nationwide for political involvement, international affairs, and diplomacy. Named after George Washington, he had a vision before his death and the founding of the school in 1821 of building a school in the heart of Washington, DC dedicated to providing quality education for many young students from all over the relatively young nation.

As a prospective student, I would say to make multiple visits to the university before and after the admissions decision. As a campus located in the Foggy Bottom section of Northwest, Washington, DC, there are many things to see and explore. The aforementioned White House, as well as the Lincoln Monument and Washington Monument are literally minutes away by walk. In terms of making connections, especially students of minority background, look for information on organizations and programs that fit you and can be pertinent to your future success. As a student who is of Nigerian descent, the MSSC (Multicultural Student Services Center) was a community and a presence on campus looking for students of multicultural or minority origin. This community was a big part of my success at the George Washington University because it kept us together based on our common backgrounds, interests, feelings, and ideas. Another form of advice could be to consider which campus fits you: Foggy Bottom or Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon is drastically different from Foggy Bottom, as it is located in a more suburban area behind Georgetown University and the Georgetown shopping area. This makes for a more tranquil and homely experience. For those who prefer the fast-paced living of urban Foggy Bottom for their freshman year, Foggy Bottom is right for you. However, if you prefer a more homely, modern experience (and the shuttle bus between campuses), then Mount Vernon is right for you.

As a Biological Sciences major, I am somewhat biased on the rigor of the undergraduate curriculum of my school. Biology, by the vast majority, is believed to be within the top two or three hardest majors offered at the George Washington University. Engineering, as a whole field (computer science, civil engineering, etc.), is often considered to be the hardest. Never mind about just those two majors though. As a whole, the curriculum of my school is relatively difficult, as many of my friends and colleagues in various majors and disciplines have complained about the difficulty of their coursework, despite loving what they are learning. Majors geared towards the humanities, political science, and international affairs tend to have lectures supplemented by a colossal amount of readings (books, articles, videos, etc) weekly. Majors geared toward the life sciences and engineering tend to have lectures with several exams (in addition to midterms) supplemented by hands-on lab sessions and problem solving (labs also tend to have exams and quizzes). The way other schools have, for example, government as a major, is consolidated within political science, or international affairs at the George Washington University. In essence, other schools offer majors for more specific topics in other schools than at my school.

GW has consistently been ranked in the top 10 by the Princeton Review for Dorm Like Palaces Many of the top dorm names on both campuses include South Hall (Seniors only), Ivory Tower, West Hall, Lafayette Hall, City Hall, Amsterdam Hall, etc. Many of these dorms I have lived in (Amsterdam, City Hall) and many more I have been in countless times. Utilities are efficient and have a low failure rate. The rooms are spacious and range from doubles to quads. Many also have vast laundry facilities, study rooms, gym facilities (City Hall), balconies, and even a pool (City Hall). There are also many small parks and corridors between and within dorms (South Hall, West Hall, Somers Hall) that are perfect for relaxation during the spring and summer months. There are also lobbies and lounge rooms (basement, roof, and floors) that are equipped with comfortable seating and entertainment utilities (flat-screen TVs and cable boxes) that also impose a homey feel to students. There is also current construction on a new super-dorm that will take the spot of three outdated dorms that were in operation until the end of my junior year. This dorm will help to alleviate the growing population of incoming freshman with each acceptance class. It is also believed that it will be the largest, most modern, efficient, and updated dorm on campus For all students looking at dorm structure and quality as one of their main variables in picking their school of choice, GW is at or near the top of the pile for schools in the country.

The main spot for dining and food on campus is located at the Marvin Center in the middle of campus. Its dining area includes many non-brand restaurants and food stands that serve delicious and respectable dishes and recipes. However, there are some stands that I do not favor, mainly because it serves foreign food from a specific culture that does not taste good to me (forgot the name, but its right next to the Chinese restaurant stand in the left corner of the entrance on 21st street). There is also an Auntie Anne's within the dining area, and it has quickly become a student favorite in the first year it has been there. For those looking for a healthier option, there is also a food line in the middle that serves fruit, greens and vegetables (especially useful for those who are vegan or vegetarian), and cold food. Pita Pitt, Dunkin Donuts, Potbellys, and Gallery in the Ivory Tower dining area are also options. There is also a deli called GW Deli that is just like a regular deli for those looking for a humbler and genuine eating experience. Whole Foods, Roti, and Burger Tap and Shakes, 7-11, and Sweetgreen are all across the street from GW Hospital. Chipotle, Bertucci (Italian restaurant), and Johnny Rockets are in 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue. Fridays, Panda Cafe are also on Pennsylvania. CVS is also located in 2000 Penn. and E Street NW, respectively. Fobogro is a GW-owned sandwich spot that is also a popular spot on campus. Starbucks is also located in Gelman Library. Then, you have Carvings (located in Potomac Hall and is like the Deli), Subway, and 7-11 on the other edge of campus. For Mount Vernites, students have dining in Ames Hall and West Hall, as well as off-campus places such as Panda Cafe and Safeway.

There are various things to do for fun on campus. There is a recreational fitness facility on campus called the Lerner Health & Wellness Center, in which students can work out in the Fitness Center, play basketball, soccer, badminton, squash, swim in pool, run track, etc. For campus nightlife, there are various Greek townhouses that provide parties and things to do for many students. Dorms are also areas in which students can create safe and healthy fun for themselves. Just off campus are bars and lounges such as McFaddens and Camelot for those older students who are eligible to access it. Beside partying, there is also great fun in taking a tour of nearby attractions such as the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln Monument, National Mall, the Smithsonian Museum, Dupont Circle (many places to eat as well), and so on. The Woodling Zoo is also an area of fun. Prime areas such as U Street and Gallery Place-Chinatown are seen as the cultural centers of DC, where everything from restaurants to movie theaters to sports stadium (Verizon Center) are also available. Adams Morgan and Georgetown are also other prime areas in the city that provide fun for students outside of campus. DC nightlife is among the most varied in the country and many students never run of things to do for fun.

GW is top 3 nationwide in Most Expensive Schools. As a school located within a prime section in the capital of the United States (minutes away from the White House and the monuments), it is almost a no-brainer that the tuition is that high. However, if you can afford to go there (through scholarships, grants, parents paying, or even loans), GW does not disappoint with the various opportunities available to you, as well as the various things you see and who you meet. Students receive a unique educational experience as well as being taught by many respectable professionals in the medical, government (House and Senate members), and public affairs field. The positives seem to outweigh the negative, and you more likely than not, receive bang for the buck.

Greek life is huge at GW. I, myself, am Greek. However, I am part of the Multicultural Greek Council, which is under the supervision of the Multicultural Student Services Center. As a result, we are not represented hugely on my campus, which means we are to an extent, marginalized. Within the MGC are several Greek letter organizations that are multiculturally distinct in origin, practices, and membership. My own fraternity (Phi Beta Sigma) does not have a house on campus, despite the fact that our chapter was chartered on campus. However, we try to make our presence felt as much as we can. In terms of commenting on the Caucasian frats and sororities on campus, I couldn't comment on their programs, structure, and practices much because of our lack of integration with most of them. I do, however, know that they do hold most of the townhouses devoted to Greek organizations. The way they garner membership as well is through a process known as rushing in which they host a variety of events publicly (like a large cookout) and promote their organization, while providing paper and pen for interested students. Then for several weeks, they have their prospective members engage in several activities openly to become members. Among my favorite Greek-letter organizations beside my own include Tau Kappa Epsilon, Chi Omega, Pi Detla Psi, Sigma Psi Zeta, Alpha Phi Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Zeta Phi Beta, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Omega Psi Phi, Kappa Alpha Psi, etc. Greek life is a great way to engage in campus life, make connections, and provide services to the community.

Campus safety is excellent at GW. I know that personally because I worked for the GWPD for almost two years. GWPD is the main form of security at GW, equipped with patrol cars, a main office, and hundreds of employees who regularly patrol dorms, office buildings, and other facilities on a regular basis. Most dorms are also equipped with various forms of surveillance cameras that are constantly monitored. In addition, dorms can only be accessed by its residents with a valid GWorld. All buildings on campus during late hours can only be accessed by valid GWorld holders, or with the case with some buildings, only authorized personnel. Visiting GW students and outsiders (not staff or students), must be signed in by employees of the GWPD and accompanied by residents of the residential dorm. The location of campus also makes it regularly safe because of its proximity to important government and financial buildings. In addition for those females (and less likely, males) that are out at late hours on campus, many of them can call 4-Ride, which is an escort service that is free of charge, that can take you anywhere on campus and certain areas off campus. This escort service is in service 7 days a week from 7pm-5:30am.

George Washington is the only place I'd want to be. There's no other college in the world that is just a few steps from the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. GW is a large school, with a diverse student body who all come together for fun events such as this week's Midnight Breakfast with games and prizes and basketball games where we all cheer on the Colonials!

GW really is great! I think the location is amazing and the education I'm getting is phenomenal! I also like the people, it's hard at first to find your group of friends because there's so many different kinds of people. But, I think that just makes it all the more exciting! I think my biggest complaint would be that it is so ridiculously expensive, honestly, it could be so much cheaper! At the end of the day though, I can't see myself anywhere else!

Classes at George Washington University are pretty balanced between large lectures and small classrooms. I have three large lecture classes and two smaller classroom experiences. I have a double major in International Affairs (concentration in Latin America) and Political Science with a minor in History. My favorite class is American Politics, Professor Deering is hilarious and explains everything personally! I registered for Legislative Politics with him next semester. The academic requirements are annoying, for example, I have to take a Math and two Science courses, and my AP credits can't count towards those courses. But the general education requirements are very easy to accomplish nonetheless. There hasn't been a class I haven't enjoyed, including those general education courses!

The first book I read about colleges described the dorms at George Washington as palaces. It was dead on. But, it really depends on what hall you live in though. GW is a relatively old school, so the dorms are either old or brand new! The old dorms aren't terrible by any means, but they aren't as nice either! Brand new dorms are available to everyone. I live in the newest building, West Hall. I have three roommates and we live in a suite. Thus, we each have our own rooms, a common room, a kitchenette, and a bathroom. Also, there is a full kitchen on our floor and a laundry room. My dorm room is amazing! There are plenty of nice dorm rooms all over campus, so you have tons of options!

There are a lot of options when it comes to meals at GW! We have two types of options, things we can buy with dining dollars and things we can buy with colonial cash. Dining dollars can be used at any dining hall, there are two, one for each campus. The food is extremely good, however it's almost always the same options. There's many, but it becomes mundane. With colonial cash, we can buy absolutely anything anywhere that will accept our cards. This provides you with so many more options! You can sit down and eat at a restaurant or order delivery! The dining hall food is honestly delicious, but when it gets to be too repetitive, colonial cash provides students with a lot more options!

Everyone is extremely social, doors are almost always open on my floor and we all gather in one room and study or watch our favorite shows together. There are a number of fraternities and sororities at GW that are always hosting events. Many students rush, however it doesn't dominate the social scene. There are always DC clubs that are hosting parties for college students or where a singer or band is performing. Organizations are constantly holding events, and if they're promoting free food, everyone shows up! Outside of campus, DC has a lot to offer, whether its the Drag Queen Race or just visiting Georgetown or the monuments! There's plenty for students to find, either on or off campus.

There is one truly unique aspect of George Washington that never ceases to amaze me. This is the fact that I can walk a few blocks from campus and be right in front of the White House, National Mall, or the Lincoln Memorial! GW is the only school centered right in the heart of DC. The presidential motorcade passes by almost daily and there's never a dull moment! Despite the constant excitement, GW's location opens a lot of doors for internships and other opportunities for all majors! GW's location is probably the most unique (and the best) thing about it!

GW Deli! It's owned by an Italian family, takes Colonial Cash, and is absolutely delicious! It's a very small building with a constant flow of students. Everything they make is amazing though, but definitely try a sandwich, they're unbeatable! Also, we have a fire department on campus that is a bit unusual because it is the department that responds to the White House. When President Taft got stuck in his bathtub, it was our fire department that responded!

George Washington is great for a variety of students! However, you have to be willing to work hard because the academics are rigorous! Other than that, GW has a lot to offer to a myriad of people! It's too diverse not to!

Students at George Washington are extremely involved in politics. Thus, College Republicans and College Democrats are extremely popular here. There are a number of fraternities and sororities at GW that are always hosting events. Many students rush, however it doesn't dominate the social scene. There are so many organizations, whether you like sports, leadership roles, a specific culture, or just about any other activity you could think of! Also, there are a lot of positions available to freshman as well. Get involved your first year, it will make a huge difference!

Until this year, George Washington didn't really have a very large Greek scene. However, it has grown this past semester and become extremely popular. Fraternities and sororities are great, they have fun events for everyone and there are so many to choose from if you're interested! A lot of hopeful brothers and sisters have a lot of fun, especially during rush! However, it's really not mandatory! I'm not a huge fan, so I didn't rush or anything, and it's really not a big deal! There is a social scene outside of Greek life too, so either way, you'll be happy!

Washington, DC is infamous for its crime! However, GW is in a very safe area of the city and there are so many precautions the university takes to protect students! We have email and text alerts when there are possible threats and there are emergency buttons all over campus! Furthermore, the University Police Department provides a service that you can call and request someone to pick you up if you suddenly feel unsafe when in the city and they will drive you back to campus. I have never felt unsafe at George Washington!

It is honestly a dream due to its location. Right at the heart of DC it not just perfect due to the amazing pastimes and the welcoming nature of the campus and its members, but because its location makes is home to so many internship opportunities. From congressional internships on Capitol Hill, to NIH internships, to internships at GW's very own hospital, GW is the place to be, a true dream.

Apply for financial assistance on time and show your interest in the school. They do take it into account. If you can, schedule a visit and plan an interview.

The school is well known for its academic rigor.

The dorm rooms can be a little crowded but they are larger than at other colleges and the housekeeping service and available private bathrooms are a plus. Also students can chose from living in the Foggy Bottom campus, at the heart of the city in a more urban campus, or at the Mount Vernon campus, which is a more traditional college setting.

The food is really good and the service is great. The students can also use a meal card and eat at select restaurants in the area.

Travel around DC and explore! The Foggy Bottom campus is walking distance from the National Mall as well as Georgetown and the potomac river waterfront. Also going for a run through Rock Creek park or taking the metro down to the zoo is a great idea for students on a budget.

This place is super expensive, but it is totally worth the money. Also on campus housing is mandatory for freshman and sophomore year and if you appeal this then your financial aid award is decreased.

Honestly, I have learned a lot at GW in just one year. Because I am an undecided major, I took most of my GCRs (general curriculum requirements). I took a huge variety of classes including english, sociology, statistics, chemistry, basically anything one could think of. Many of the introduction classes are huge (they will be anywhere you go) but most of my classes all of my teachers knew my name. If you get to know the professor, then they will try to get to know you as well. Many professors main concern is that you learn from their class. I had a class with no tests but completely discussion based. Some professors may give you a large workload but this is because they expect you to succeed in everything you are given. I have enjoyed every single one of my classes even though I do not have a major.

I absolutely LOVE GW. It completely depends on the person. I am from a very small town and then came to Washington DC, a huge city where something is happening almost every minute of the day. GW is very different from other colleges. Students are walking distance from the White House and the other monuments. Recently during our finals week, Obama announced Osama's death and everyone stopped studying and ran to the White House to celebrate. We were a piece of history because we were there and other students from different colleges cannot say that. Students from other colleges may that we have no school spirit because we do not have a football team. However, we still have a basketball team with great new recruits and a new coach. If one wants to be spirited then it is very easy to do so. Also, I really enjoyed living in Thurston my first year. It is a dorm of all new freshman. It creates a true community for incoming students and it is an easy way to make friends.

I will be completely honest. GW is very expensive and the only reason I am going here is because of my scholarship. Without my scholarship, I would not be able to afford this school. GW is very courteous with their scholarships and financial aid but you have to work hard in high school. They give federal work study as well to help you out. I understand where all the money is going with the great professors and the fact that we are in the heart of a huge city. Many people complain about the food and it being expensive. However, we are one of a few colleges that give numerous places for students to eat. If you use your card for only food (not gift cards, school supplies, etc), you will be fine.

I would suggest prospective students to come visit and ask questions. I have friends that are tour guides and say that they much rather prefer people to ask what they really want to ask than what they think they should ask. They want people to ask about nightlife and greek life. Also, I would suggest that people study hard in high school to get scholarships, especially if they want to go to GW. The most important thing I could think of is once in college join groups! If you know you want to be in a certain group look into it and come in contact with people from the group. This way you will have friends or acquaintances the first day of college. Plus if you visit and know somebody, they will give a better tour because they have no requirements.

I think this school is great for everybody. It has something for every type of person. Even though I am from a small town, I love DC. Even though I am undecided and not in the Elliott School, I love the classes and GW. Even though I am straight, I am friends with homosexual people and love that the school is open to everybody. Even though I am Hispanic, I am treated the same as everybody else. Overall, the stereotypes of GW may be true but this school is appropriate for any type of person.

The George Washington University is full of internship and job opportunities. Studying at the center of politics, many students share valuable connections and memorable experiences. With embassies, museums, monuments, students can always find something to do and enjoy while pursuing your degree(s)!

Join student organizations if you can and try being active. Also, I really recommend study group when studying for midterms and finals. Be enthusiastic and pick classes you truly like.

It is not really difficult if you manage your time well and listen to professor (go to the lecture). I recommend going to the office hours if you are confused or not doing well in the class. Professors are willing to help if you ask for help. Midterms and finals can be difficult, but if you study in advance and not cram in the end (sometimes it works though, but I don't encourage you to do that), you will succeed in all of the classes. Usually there's midterm and final. Some classes have additional quizzes and essays.

There's parties on Thursdays, Fridays, and weekends. If you are not into parties, it doesn't really matter. Dorm is usually quiet and it is possible to study at dorm (but some students choose to go to the library to study)

There are many restaurants at GW. When you are enrolled in the school, you will get two types of money (dining dollars and colonial cash). Dining dollars are used only for J-street and those around J-street (pretty much school cafeteria). Colonial cash is used outside J-street (for example, CVS). Food is not excellent, but it's edible and you get used to it. If you are tired of restaurants at Foggy Bottom (GW campus), you can try exploring outside restaurants in D.C.. For example, Founding Farmers is a great restaurant.

There's lots of things to do for fun. First is the parties and nightclubs. Second, you can explore D.C. Also, there's lots of events that D.C. hosts (ex. Taste of D.C., Paint Party, etc) so if you look for things to do they're available.

The curriculum is amazing and taylored to your major as well as your prospective employment. As a Freshman I have been emersed into business projects, research, writing, etc. They include a writing improvement course and an adjustment to college life course. Great support system within the university.

Every day is the bomb. If I was at any other school, would not have had the opportunity to sit at a basketball game and shake hands with the United States President!!!!

Expensive, but you get your money's worth. No other college compares to the perks you get at GWU.

Accept the invitation to attend.

Great for all types of students. It's not too big or too small. Urban setting is not a problem because there is great security.

As an undeclared major at entry, I filled my freshman year with GCRs. While many students gripe about the fairly comprehensive requirements, I used them as an opportunity to figure out what I was interested in studying. There's a great variety of classes available and I've had good experiences with the faculty, both professors and advisors, during my first year.

It's pretty common knowledge that the best part of GW is the city it's located in. Great music venues, restaurants, hookah bars, night clubs, and museums are either within walking distance or a short metro ride away. Within the school, however, much of the student body has a reputation for being rich, white, Long Islanders with superficial interests. I'm not going to dispute this (instead I'll refer you to stuffgwpeoplelike.com) but I will say that the school also has a great deal of diversity and it's easy to make friends, particularly if you get involved in activities and make an effort to reach out to students in classes. It's big enough so you'll never meet everyone, no matter how hard you try, but small enough that you're likely to pass a friend on the street every day.

GW is a very expensive school. I would never have been able to attend if not for the fairly generous financial aid that I received. Due to my complicated family financial situation, I had to petition the school for more aid around the time of my enrollment. It was an arduous process but I ended up getting the money that I needed. In my experience, the people in the FA office have been helpful and friendly. The price tag is high but there are ways to make it affordable, if you put in the work.

- Always check out professors on RateMyProfessor.com before registering. Take the reviews with a grain of salt, but in my experience they've always been accurate.
- Make sure the class times work for you; don't sign up for 8 ams if you know you'll struggle to get up each morning. Will you need significant gaps during the day? Do you plan on getting a job?
- Make an effort to contact professors and TAs if you need help, or if you just want to discuss what you're learning.
- Avoid living on the Vern unless you don't mind a 10-50 minute commute and knowing almost everyone in your dorm (and the drama that results)
- Take advantage of the city and try to find fun, free events in the area whenever you can. Don't waste money going clubbing every weekend when there's such an awesome variety of things to do.
- Cabs are ridiculously expensive. Get comfortable using public transit and you'll save money.

Work hard, play hard type kids; people with political ambitions; people who enjoy an urban environment but think New York is a bit much

The most politically active school in the nation with the best campus of all the universities in DC. If you attend here, I hope you like politics.

Think very carefully before you choose to live on the Mount Vernon campus. Never buy your books in the bookstore but if you absolutely must, make sure you price check them to Amazon.

It's one of the top schools in DC and it's location in Foggy Bottom enhances the academics. You are literally two blocks from the White House, the State Department, embassies, etc. Also, many of the professors teach at both GW and Georgetown, so the academics are comparable.

The dorms are extremely expensive because of the Foggy Bottom location, especially after freshman year. Some of them are extremely nice while others are in desperate need of renovation, especially Thurston Hall.

Because there is no dining hall, food can be expensive. We can use a Gworld card at most restaurants on campus, but because of the way the university has the cards set up, restaurants inflate the prices of food to make Gworld profitable.

There are dozens of museums, monuments, etc. right on your doorstep. GW also has its own metro station, so its easy to explore different areas of DC. Campus is close to Georgetown's M Street for shopping and also the National Mall.

GW is one of the most expensive schools in the nation but some of the classroom are extremely run down.

The hippo is our unofficial mascot.

There is a club fair at the beginning of the year that is really helpful for finding clubs since there are so many.

About a quarter of students are in Greek life. The sororities are very strict and don't allow hazing but the fraternities do.

I have never felt unsafe in the Foggy Bottom area. They have a blue light system like most universities.

GWU is where we make history! In one of the most vibrant cities on the planet, Colonials get to experience life as it happens. It's not just college--it's a lifestyle.

Apply for Early Decision if you know that GWU is going to be the place for you. I applied RD, and so my housing application will be processed last. Applying ED takes a lot of the pressure off, so if GW is your dream school, make it happen right away!

The classes are small and personal, so students have a real relationship with teachers.

It's incredibly unlikely that you'll get a single room as a freshman, but if you're okay living with a roommate in a double, the GWU residence halls are gorgeous. This is an odd observation--but they smell REALLY good!

The dining halls are awesome and a lot of restaurants around the city take Colonial Cash, which is really convenient. Make sure you're eating your vegetables! City life never stops, so you DON'T want to be getting sick.

It's DC! There are a million things to do within walking distance, and a billion more to find just a Metro ride away. GWU has all the best things about living in a city, mixed with all the great things about living on a college campus. There's so much to do and see, especially with the White House, the National Mall, and the Smithsonian Museums so close by.