George Mason University
Fairfax, VA, USA

Reviews

George Mason University

Tahina from Richmond, VA

a current student here
46 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Here at George Mason University a.k.a GMU or Mason, classes are small and the professors are shockingly always available to answer questions by email or in person. Lecture halls are usually semi-big but then they are divided into Labs where you are able to get one on one assistance with your instructors. I learned so much within my first semester there and was well prepared entering my second semester. My professors were compromising and taught me new ways to study, write papers and do presentations. My strengths were brought out and my so called weaknesses are no longer categorized as such! I am a nursing major but I have been introduced to all other majors and everyone seems to know a little about everything which is great given that the school is big and yet feels like a spacious home.
Am enjoying being here
I am more than just enjoying being here at Mason, I'm doing somersaults everywhere! I love my family and my friends at home but I just feel like GMU is my home. It's hard not to consider it as so because I love my girls especially given that we are so different in ethnicities, backgrounds and races and yet completely have each other's backs!
Bang for the buck
The campus is so amazing and the people that are within the Mason community make the money so worth the spending! Especially given that it feels like home [and better] and the people you meet really do become family!
Tips for prospective students
Manage your time well! Study and go to every class. Professors will notice familiar faces and will thus compromise with you if something comes up! Go to lectures because the professors give tips for exams. Also, have fun and be willing to open up to new people and change for the better! Moreover, remember that this is education you're paying for or somebody else is paying for; do not waste the opportunity to learn, grow and prosper!
Great for these types of students
The Mason community is diverse!!! Everyone will find a place if they choose to look and open up! However, I think George Mason University is an institution for students who love diversity and being around other cultures, races and people of various interests, etc! Mason is not a community for those who choose to be close-minded because GMU is what it is because of all the colors of the rainbow! Patriots rule!!!

Sherita from Logan Township, NJ

a current student here
18 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I get excited about what I have learned when I leave my classes. I am a psychology major and psychology is very interesting within itself, but I have been able to explore my major in ways to help me decide what I want to do after I get my degree. I feel that I will be well prepared to go out into the work force when I graduate because of the knowledge and great teaching abilities of my professors.
Am enjoying being here
I am very much enjoying being at Mason. But in order for it to be fun, you have to be social and get involved in the Mason community events and organizations! Plus, it's very accessible to Washington, D.C.
Bang for the buck
It's a little pricey if you are an out-of-state student, but it's worth the money for your experiences that you gain!
Tips for prospective students
Get involved! There is so much to choose from at Mason. All of the organizations make themselves well-known with lots of events and lots of ways to help you academically. Also, ask for help when you need it. There are many resources for help with papers, exams or even if you just don't understand the material being taught to you. One of the best types of resources provided is Blackboard where you can chat with your professors and classmates and pretty much any time of the day! And many professors provide extra notes on Blackboard =)
Great for these types of students
Every single type! All races/ethnicities/genders/religions/beliefs are accepted here. It's beautiful! We're like one giant melting pot!

Sabel from Virginia Beach, VA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I do not know where to begin in describing how much I have learned at George Mason. This past year was my first year at Mason and I started off as a biology major. My first semester provided me with a variety of classes that kept me on my toes. However, my second semester lead me to change my major to History. For the first time in my schooling, I switched from learning U.S. history, to studying African Civilization. My History 262 surprised me with such interesting information, that it opened my eyes to change my major to History. I am not looking back on that decision. Mason has a huge variety of classes that will provide a foundation and letting you grow into professionals.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love the campus and the people. The friends that i have made this past year will be ones that I will keep forever. I have also joined a sorority and I am a proud sister of Alpha Omicron Pi. There are so many things to do on campus, even though Mason is sometimes referred to a commuter school. Whether its eating in the Johnson's Center with my sisters or throwing a football in Presidents Park (where I used to live), I can easily say that I made the best decision to come to George Mason and I am enjoying every minute of it.
Bang for the buck
Everyone rants and raves how close George Mason is to D.C. and how inexpensive Mason is compared to the universities in D.C. During my second semester I went into Washington D.C. just about every weekend. I had to venture into the capital city for several of my classes and I was in complete awe how easy and fast it took to get there. There are so many opportunities in Washington D.C. and going to Mason helps brings those opportunities to its students, without the higher tuition.
Tips for prospective students
Please get involved with the Mason community. It is such a diverse school with so many activities that will expand your horizons and provide you with the best college experience.

from VA

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
George Mason University is a great school to attend if you are in process of earning your college degree. The academics are excellent and the class sizes, on average, are medium. The professors are informative when it comes to the subject that they teach. After a semester at Mason I have learned a lot of material in various different areas of studies; from math, to history, to religion, and more.
Am enjoying being here
Mason, as it is most commonly referred to, is a great environment and portrays a vibrant campus. The Johnson Center, or the JC, is a wonderful way to spend time with friends and grab a bite to eat, finish up assignments, or get all your textbooks and Mason gear from the bookstore. The community of this campus welcomes anybody who chooses to come to school here. As Mason continues to grow and expand, you get to become part of a growing spectacle. With new dorms the campus houses nearly 5,000 students. New gyms, facilities, and the Southside: all you care to eat buffet make Mason a place where you have everything you need. The Mason Inn that will be opening in the summer of 2010 gives Mason another great addition to the growing legacy here.
Bang for the buck
You get the most out of your money if you decide to come to school at Mason. Mason is not too expensive at all; even though college overall is expensive Mason is quite affordable. It's proximity to Washington, D.C. gives it another asset that makes the experience worthwhile. D.C. has some of the nation's nicest museums and also is a great place to go if you're looking for a good night out on the town. The education you get at Mason will ensure you that when you graduate with your degree you will have all the necessary skills and more to exceed and excel in your career choice.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you visit the campus and/or speak with current students here in order to learn and obtain all the information you need about the campus. The professors at Mason are willing to help and will always be available for assistance if you need help. Attending the lectures is important if you want to do well in your courses. Adjusting to the college lifestyle may not be easy at first, but after a period of time you will adjust and enjoy it. Make sure you give your best effort and you will be fine. Join a fraternity/sorority or another organization to get involved. Also remember to have fun and enjoy college. It is one of the best experiences of your life so take the time out to enjoy it.
Great for these types of students
Overall you will enjoy your experience at Mason. You will not only gain skills and learn what you need to for your career, but you will also learn more about yourself and grow as a person. You will get to bond with other college students who are going through the same process that you are. Mason has plenty of things for you to enjoy on campus. Whether it's hanging out in the JC, participating in a club, or enjoying Weekends at Mason there is plenty to do. Mason also has a great basketball team and the home games are electric and always entertaining. So kick back, relax, and enjoy your experience. Go Patriots!

Dakota from Poway, CA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As a student here at George Mason University, I would have to say that with George Mason is definitely an A school for B students. GMU is one of the most underrated schools in the country academically, offering many opportunities by the surrounding D.C. area. The professors here are top-notch, whether they be full-time or adjunct with local jobs in the Nation's capital. With every class comes a great experience with an even more outstanding professor teaching you through it. Here at George Mason, the professors are as good as any Ivy League school professors, and it is an outstanding school to feel strong about the degree you are receiving.
Am enjoying being here
The campus isn't exactly what you would call huge, but at the same time it isn't small either. I would have to say it is the perfect size for any student, of any background or living community. There are many different on-campus and off-campus opportunities for living, whether you like huge dorms with 30+ people, or in my case a small hall with about 16 people. There is also activities going on all the time, whether it be Midnight Madness in the Johnson Center, or Faculty vs. Student Softball Game for the Music Department, there is always something for any student.
Bang for the buck
The opportunities that are offered at George Mason are worth any sum of money. Being in the D.C. area, working with professionals, having fun on campus, and being in a great academic environment are all things you couldn't pass up, so why wouldn't George Mason be worth it?
Tips for prospective students
I would say for those who plan on attending George Mason, to be open to new things. When I first arrived here, I didn't think I enjoyed the college life at all, but that was because I psyched myself into thinking just that. As time went on, there were a few select people who really helped transition from high school to college, as stubborn as I was. The fact is, college is new and different, so why try to change that simple fact? The truth is, you can't, and like your parents tell you when you're 12 years old, change can be good, and if you come to Mason, change IS good.
Great for these types of students
Mason is great for any type of student. The diversity here is astounding and there are many different places and environments to study or hang out. Whether it be the second and third floor libraries at the Johnson Center or the late night sports bar, Ike's, Mason offers a variety of environments that can fit anybody's needs.

from Fairfax, VA

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As long as you have a genuine thirst for knowledge, most classes will be very intriguing and you will take pride in what you have learned. Many of the professors I have come into contact with are excellent teachers and are highly available through email. I have gotten responses back from professors within hours of sending my message. Learning at Mason does not stop at the exit of classroom; while visiting the career and academic advising centers I have gained important knowledge on specific majors and careers I'm interested in. In the career center there's a mini library of books about almost every career imaginable.

A large number of professors encourage their students to get involved with campus activities. I am proud to say that I was involved with helping set up and prepare the AIDS Quilt that came to GMU during AIDS/HIV Awareness week. Many students and I hung large quilts around the JC (Johnson Center). On each one, pictures and names of people were quilted in remembrance of those past.

With some classes, you'll find yourself attending world class performances at the Center for the Arts building where pianist Lang Lang has/will perform. Or even at other various campus events that teachers may give extra credit for. There is a continuous stream of job workshops at Mason that aim to enhance your job-getting and job-performing skills.

At Mason, the education goes beyond the lecture halls.
Am enjoying being here
I can honestly say that I do enjoy being at GMU. The food and varied selection is above average, relative to most universities in America. Although, the food at Southside dining hall can become bland due to excessive visits, so don't eat all of your day's meals there. Instead try to mix it up by going to one of the many places in the JC or in Student Union I (they have Chick-Fil-A =]).

I know many of you may be concerned about the freshman 15 but don't fret because there are MULTIPLE gyms on campus. My favorite (due to proximity) is Skyline gym; its building structure is connected to the Southside dining hall and is just footsteps away from a freshman residence area called DUCC. Then there is the Aquatics Center which contains a gym and an Olympic size pool. The newest addition to Mason's ensemble of physical fitness buildings is the RAC (Recreation and Athletic Complex).

The social experience is excellent, especially if you choose to live in the Living Learning Community. The LLC program takes students with similar academic interests and puts them on the same floor in a communal dorm. I have found that the communal dorms in the University Commons residence halls creates a more social atmosphere between you and your floor mates. Some floors have gotten to know each other so well that they modeled their floor's commons area into a living room; with couches, a table and big screen television. Not all the floors have these luxuries but you and your floor mates can donate items to transform your hall into a real home. The student clubs are highly active and will definitely keep you involved. They prove to serve as excellent mediums for meeting other students and making friends.
Bang for the buck
If you are out-of-state and don't have a large amount of scholarship money, it may be a financial risk to make GMU your choice. On the other hand if you are in-state or are financially secured through scholarships then I encourage you to choose Mason. One of the downturns is that some classes require you to purchase brand new books so that you receive a new online code to log into the online portion of the course. The codes from used books are not recyclable. So in some cases you may not be able to buy the cheaper used books. Compared to other schools of the same or lesser quality, the education and career connections are well worth the price.
Tips for prospective students
1) Consider this school if you are in-state and/or live very close to the campus; it offers a great education for a relatively low price.
2) Apply for early decision; (a time period during the fall) it will increase your chances of being accepted.
3) If it is possible, make a visit to the school.
Great for these types of students
GMU is great for students who live in the northern Virginia area; close to home and they can be a commuter student. They can save money on out-of-state tuition and maybe room and board if they decide to live at home. Mason is the ideal university to attend for students who are seeking diversity. The campus population is colorful; with many different nationalities, religions, and cultures. The atmosphere encourages people to be open-minded and allows people express who they are.

Jennifer from Columbia, MD

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
George Mason has a great diversity of students and is rapidly expanding their campus to add many more programs to accommodate different majors. Mason has a great community feel with students who are excited to be patriots and go to class to learn. Mason is the place to be!
Tips for prospective students
Work hard in high school to get a great GPA and great SAT scores to ensure that you make it to Mason, because there is just no place better to go!
Academic Rigor
George Mason challenges its students without killing them. Students feel motivated to work hard and expand their knowledge because they know that 4.0's don't come easy, however if you work for it, it is attainable.
Dorm Life
Mason's dorms are all new and renovated and make for great living! The set up of the dorms provide for a great community feel without feeling like everyone is being squished into a closet.
Food and Dining
Mason's food is beyond fantastic. It's not your typical college food that makes you want to go home for some home-cooked food. The food always tastes amazing and there is always a place to get that food at all hours of the night!
What to do for fun
See a free movie, head to DC, take a bus to a surrounding mall, or hang out on campus on go to one of the many free events that happen almost every weekend!
Great for these types of students
Who isn't Mason great for?!
Clubs and Activities
There is absolutely no shortage of clubs at Mason! In fact there are over 300!
Campus Safety
I've never felt unsafe on Mason's campus. And if you ever want someone to walk you to your dorm late at night, call a campus officer to escort you back.

Samantha from Fairfax, VA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Although I'm not learning a lot in my Honors classes (go figure), I do learn a lot in the classes for my major. My Abnormal Psychology class blew me away.
Am enjoying being here
I love Mason! I don't plan on transferring anywhere. The campus is beautiful and diverse.
Tips for prospective students
Get good grades and write a great essay. If Honors is something you want to do go ahead and click the box to apply for Honors because you may get in.
Great for these types of students
Students who want diversity and enjoy being close to DC without being in it should apply.

Tomesha from Highland Springs, VA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
George Mason , home of the Patriots, is one of the most diverse schools in the state of Virginia. Not only does it have a beautiful campus but it is also located fairly close to our nations capitol. This school is full of innovation, constantly growing and trying to find new ways to help the youth reach success.
Tips for prospective students
If you're looking for a school that's all about helping their students reach success then Mason is definitely for you. If your serious about any school you want to make sure that you are involved in your community service and extra-curricular activities. Mason in particular is looking for students who are well rounded, meaning you've seen and done a little bit of everything. Last but most certainly not the least important factor , you'll want to keep your GPA nice and high!
Academic Rigor
General education courses are some of the easier classes you will take, but once you get into your major the classes start to present more of a challenge. Though the classes are challenging the teachers are always there to support you in any way that they can. Aside from the teachers, there are tutoring services available for all students. Here at Mason the classes are tough but you are receiving support from every direction.
Dorm Life
Mason has most recently built two NEW upperclassman dorms and I am pretty sure they have more to come. Housing is not an issue at GMU. The freshman dorms here are not as nice as a the upperclassman dorms. There are many different styles of dorms here. You have the classic freshman dorm with the community bathroom; you have the upperclassman dorms which you have your own bathroom and some rooms have their own kitchen and living area.
Food and Dining
Like I said earlier, Mason is full of Innovation. We have recently put in a Rot Hot n' Blue and Panda Express. Dining at Mason is very nice. You have a lovely assortment of restaurants to choose from. Whether its fast food or food fast Mason will keep you fed.
What to do for fun
Of course parties are fun but Mason has a lot more to offer. GMU is located about 30 minutes from DC so riding into the city is definitely a fun option for the weekend. Lets say you like to change your wardrobe often, there's a shuttle that takes you to the Fair Oaks Shopping Mall. Or maybe you enjoy swimming, or getting into the hot tub, you can walk right down to the aquatic center and have your self some aquatic fun. Into basketball?? Come to a couple of the games and support our team while you listen to the luxurious sounds of the Green Machine. The list goes on and on when it comes to fun at Mason.
Clubs and Activities
No you may not have been a scholarship athlete but that does not mean you cant be a part of the team. Mason has a lot of club and intramural sports teams and other fun activities you can involve yourself in. You can play basketball or flag football. Also there are a number of clubs that you can join. So many options!

Julia from Ellicott City, MD

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
George Mason University is a very open and diverse campus. A variety of majors are offered and well taught at Mason. It is a very safe and nurturing environment to study, learn, and have hands on experience with what you will be doing for the rest of your life.
Tips for prospective students
If I had any tips for prospective students, it would be to not make a decision until you visit. I wasn't really considering Mason until my mom made me apply and I got in. Since I got in, she made me visit the campus and I fell in love with it. I loved the layout of the campus and how beautiful it was. Additionally I thought the equipment in the Engineering building was good for hands on work which played a huge part in my decisions of where I wanted to go. My main tip would be to visit the campus, see how you like it, and tour around the building of your major to see if it would be a good fit for you.
Academic Rigor
Depending on what courses you take and who your professor is, some academics here at Mason may be harder than others. Having said this, many courses are tough for a reason. If they are hard but you put your best effort into them you can still pass and do well. This ultimately helps you in the long run because you will actually understand the material rather than just knowing the basics to pass an easy class.
Dorm Life
The dorm life is pretty good from my experience. I live in Truman Hall in Presidents Park and I like it a lot. The rooms aren't too small and the living areas are constantly cleaned. The neighborhoods the dorms are in are constantly kept up with and very nice. I am honestly very happy with the living conditions here at Mason and I plan on living on campus again next year.
Food and Dining
The food in the dining halls is definitely not gourmet, but its not bad either. There are a lot of choices in the dining halls, including regular american food, sandwiches, international foods, pasta, etc. I have been to schools with much worse food, and I don't think the food is too bad. In addition to dining halls, there are a number of chain restaurants here on campus as well.
What to do for fun
There are many things to do here at Mason, depending on what you are interested in. I am in a couple of Engineering clubs on campus as well as being involved in Greek life, a sorority, here on campus. I have friends who are on the Mason dance team, Mason D1 sports teams, club sport teams, and many more clubs. There is definitely something for everyone here at Mason no matter what you like, and if there isn't you can start your own club.
Bang for the buck
Personally I think going to Mason is worth the money because it is an accredited university with a reputation that is only moving forward. With this said, it is up to you to make it worth your money. As a student you have to make yourself go to class and keep your grades up. Certain classes here do take attendance, but as it is at all colleges, it is up to you to attend.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
One of the fun traditions Mason has is Mason Day. This day comes around every year and it is extremely fun. All of Mason comes together for concerts, food, friends, and fun. Additionally, Homecoming is huge at Mason. Everyone tailgates before the basketball game and then goes to the game and cheers on our boys basketball team. Lastly, if your'e involved in Greek Life, Greek Week is very big. It gives a chance for all of Greek Life to come together and compete in many competitions to become the Greek Week champions.
Great for these types of students
Mason is great for all types of students. No matter your background or what you want to study, George Mason is great for you. It is an extremely diverse school and everyone is welcomed and has a place here.
Clubs and Activities
I am involved in a couple of Engineering clubs and I have friends who are involved in multiple activities on campus. There is a club or activity for everyone here.
Greek Life
I am involved in Greek Life here at Mason, and I love it. It gave me a way to meet new people when I first came here and it gave me a feeling that I have a home away from home. To me, my sorority sisters mean everything. They will always be here for me and Ill always be there for them. Greek Life has definitely been a positive experience for me here at Mason.
Campus Safety
George Mason is an extremely safe campus. Fairfax is a safe area and Mason in itself is very safe. The campus is always lit up at night and campus police along with police cadets are always present. I have never felt unsafe here at Mason.