How's the Political Science Program at George Washington University?

I'm currently a high school junior looking at political science programs for colleges. I'm specifically interested in the program at George Washington University. Can anyone share their experiences or insights about it? Would be extremely helpful. Thanks!

George Washington University is uniquely situated in the heart of Washington D.C., the political center of the United States, which is a significant advantage when studying Political Science. This offers you direct access to a vast scope of internships, networking opportunities, and direct explorations of the concepts taught in class. As a GW student, you can expect to be steps away from key institutions like the White House, World Bank, and numerous non-governmental organizations.

The university's Political Science program doesn't just rely on its location, though. The department is well-regarded with a rich curriculum that covers global and domestic politics, political theory, public policy, and more. As a student, you can expect your courses to integrate real-world scenarios and current events with theoretical frameworks. The department frequently hosts guest lectures with professors from other universities, diplomats, politicians, and more, thanks to the connections made possible by the university's location.

One unique feature of the Political Science department at GW is the optional Honors program which involves a rigorous research and writing component. Students interested in the honors program can apply in their junior year, and if accepted, they will write an honors thesis under the supervision of a faculty member over the course of their senior year.

The GW Political Science Department also encourages students to pair their studies with another relevant area, such as economics, international relations, or journalism, offering you a multidisciplinary perspective that can be really beneficial in your future career.

One thing to note is that the program can be quite competitive and demanding. The expectations from professors are high since you're learning in an environment so close to the subjects you're studying. However, those rigors are often helpful in preparing students for the professional world.

Remember that attending a college is about more than just the program, other factors like financial considerations, campus environment, and student support services are also crucial. Given that, George Washington University is a top choice for those aspiring to delve into Political Science due to its location, comprehensive curriculum, and strong faculty.