George Mason University

As of the time of this writing, George Mason University is a school that is on its way up. I, for one, am proud to have been there during this exciting time. I was witness to new buildings, renovations, new technology, and more and more students arriving.

GMU is one of the most diverse schools in the country, but that does not necessarily mean that it is united. Students tend to "stick together" for the most part within their own ethnic groups (this is seen more with South Asians, Middle Easterners, and such) but efforts are made to bridge the gap between races and religions.

As of now, George Mason University campus social life is minimal. Most partying goes on in the dorms; fraternity houses hire shuttles to take kids to their parties, and there is no fraternity row. The university does put on events ("First Fridays" is one that has both undergone a major overhaul and gained popularity), but the campus is a dead zone on the weekends. This has contributed to a depressive atmosphere during this time.Mason is also home to distinguished professors who are there courtesy of the Robinson grant; these include Russian expatriate author Vassily Aksyonov, and former Iranian journalist Shaul Bakhash.

4th Year Male -- Class 2004

University Resource Use/ spending: A, Social Life: C-

George Mason University is an institution rich with diversity. Student Life here is certainly what you make of it. Getting involved is so easy, and Greek Life is amazing here. Unlike most college campuses, the Greek Life here is very invovled and is a wonderful venue for social and academic progress. All organizations are friendly and open you to their group without any difficulty. The Student Activities office is always open and available for use. I have only been here for 2 months and honestly believe I am having the most wonderful and invovled college experience because it is so possible to do so here at Mason. We can eat dinner in Georgetown by hopping onto the metro. There are so many wonderful opporutnities here!

1st Year Female -- Class 2008

University Resource Use/ spending: A+, Education Quality: F

After reading all the comments of previous students, I have to say there is some truth, but in some cases, I thought it was a bit over the edge. Someone mentioned that the only people who will defend Mason are those who are from here locally. That may be the case, because yes I am from here (Fairfax, VA) all my life, but I don't think it means anything.

I had a great experience at Mason. But I made that happen myself. I took the iniative to get involved, joined clubs and organization, played intramural sports, etc. Many seem to complain, probably because they lack the social skills to get involved and yes, Mason is a commuter school, but it doesn't mean that its completely bad. Probably one of the greatest things is that Mason is located just outside the nations capital...what does that mean, very political. Political activities is unbelievable in this area. There are so many opportunities for students to get involved. Northern Virginia is the base for a huge number of distinguished companies pulling students in for interships, and experience and whatever field you are interested in. That is what makes a students experience so competitive. you are subjected to vast array of opportunities to excel and prove yourself.

Yes, it may not be the typical "party" school, but there are other attributes that truly makes your experience as great as any other school if not better. It is all up the student.

As far as faculty is concern. I had wonderful professors who has helped me a great deal. I was blessed w/ that. The Government program at mason great, but like many has said, you really have to choose your professors right. In my experience w/ students, you have those few who are... lets just say, not the brightest. When it comes to class discussions, I believe thats where the "diversity" of the student body really sinks in. Maybe its b/c I'm a govt major, but I come across some really intelligent people from across the board. It makes the discussions all the more interesting. Ideas and theories from people of different backgrounds, international students, locals, etc. That is what makes the school so rich.

Parking is ridiculous, and the food is alright (there are great restaurants throughout the area), but the gym is great. If you want to party, you go to Georgetown or Adams Morgan in DC. It is expensive to live here, so get a job. If social scene is all you want, no this is not the school to go to. But if you are willing to put effort into learning a new dimension of a college experience by digging deeper than the surface, then yes, Mason is a great school.

2nd Year Female -- Class 2004

Campus Aesthetics: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B