Impacts of GWU Location

I'm considering applying to George Washington University. I hear a lot about its prime location in DC, but in what ways does this truly impact the student experience? If you go there or are an alum, I'd appreciate hearing about your experiences!

George Washington University's location in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers a unique set of benefits and opportunities for students. Your academic, extracurricular, and career experiences are directly influenced by this location.

Firstly, since D.C is centrally located amongst government, media, and international institutions, there's a sense of immediacy and connection to global events that can be invigorating. For example, students interested in political science, international relations, journalism, and similar fields find the location particularly beneficial due to the ability to engage with leading professionals, attend hearings or conferences, or even intern on Capitol Hill.

Internship opportunities in D.C are vast and diverse. Non-profits, multinational corporations, museums, technology companies, and more are all within reach. As a student, you're in the center of one of the country’s leading job markets, which can be especially valuable when it comes to finding post-graduate work.

Extracurricular-wise, you also have unparalleled access to world-class museums, monuments, theatres, restaurants, and cultural events. The city is filled with neighborhoods for you to discover and explore. From the historic and picturesque streets of Georgetown to the vibrant and culturally rich U Street corridor, D.C is a city with something for everyone.

But keep in mind, city-living can also mean dealing with noise, less natural outdoor space, and the presence of tourists. Also, the cost of living can be higher than in other college towns. But overall, if you are keen to immerse yourself and take advantage of what a bustling city like DC has to offer, then GWU might be the right fit for you.