Georgetown University
Washington, DC, USA

Reviews

Georgetown University

CZ from VA

a current student here
52 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
This really depends on the individual and what kind of learning you feel is most valuable.
Academically speaking, obviously if you choose to slack off and focus on socializing, you might not do so hot even if your classes are awesome. For the most part, like any other school, there are easy and hard classes. Most of my professors so far have been enjoyable & interesting and the classes have definitely expanded my knowledge about the subject. The key is to balance your required classes with your electives. That way you can make sure you get your required courses out of the way in time for you to enjoy some fun classes in your junior & senior year.
In a different manner of learning, I guarantee that you will learn much about life being here. You'll definitely get to understand people and the real world more once you live here. Not only do you have to learn how to adjust living in a close-knit community (not to mention, a roommate everyday) you also have to learn how to live on your own, away from home. Also, Georgetown has great school spirit so learning the history of your school and everything about it is a must! To sum it all up, Georgetown has a great balance of academics and fun.
Am enjoying being here
One of my favorite things about Georgetown is its location. When I was considering colleges, location was a huge factor for me. I've always been a city person so when it came to choosing, I was really happy that Georgetown was in D.C. The Georgetown neighborhood is really all you can ask for in a college town. You have a campus, and you also have great surroundings outside of campus. Between M street and the Potomac River and even further into D.C., you have everything you need. M Street is fantastic for a day (or night) out with your friends just shopping and dining. If you want a nice jog, a relaxing picnic or boat ride, a spot along the Potomac River is what you would like. If you want something more challenging or further away, take the GUTS bus to the Rosslyn metro station and figure it out from there: go into the heart of D.C to visit monuments & monuments! The best part about being in D.C. is all the opportunities you'll have. There are about a million internships and jobs just calling your name! Again, to sum it up, work & play are in perfect balance here.
Bang for the buck
One thing that is holding a lot of students back from applying/going to Georgetown is the huge bill. I admit, Georgetown is crazy expensive but don't forget there are always scholarships and financial aid! I would say Georgetown is definitely worth it, whether it be the education, the reputation, or the experience. My only complaint is about the facilities. Being in a city definitely also has its disadvantages. Space is one, and cleanliness is the second. The campus is small, which is good sometimes, but that means spaces can also be kind of cramped. Also, I hate to admit but some places are definitely downright dirty...Yates (the gym) for example...
Some facilities are also kind of old but that is a small matter. Leo's (the dining hall) does not have the best of food but I guess the lack of great food there is made up by great food outside of school. These are mostly trivial matters for me so they don't influence my take on the worth that much.
Tips for prospective students
Don't get carried away by the distractions. By that I mean it's SO easy to get sidetracked by all the great stuff outside of school when it's so close and available. You have a great opportunity to get to learn things from some of the most knowledgeable and reputable professors in the world. Take advantage of that and develop a close bond with your professors and mentors. Get involved in school clubs and organizations but don't get involved in so many that you don't have time to breathe. Find the ones that mean the most to you and stick with them. Last but not least, work hard but play hard as well! Don't forget college is also about social networking as well so break out of your mold and make some different types of friends :)
Great for these types of students
City lovers, overachievers, relaxed, ambitious, fun-loving, explorers, artsy...the list goes on. Anyone can find their niche here.

Georgetown class of '13

a current student here
33 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Georgetown provides a very stimulating academic environment with the flexibility to choose fields that interest you. Some of the basic, general education requirements, like English or Theology, can be tedious depending on your interests. However, these classes are more than made up for by the wide range of classes available in other departments.
Am enjoying being here
As a top University, Georgetown requires its students to work hard and there is a lot of reading involved, particularly in the liberal arts core classes. However, life at the University is not all work and no play. Georgetown has a strong, but very optional, party scene. If you want to go out on the weekend or in the evening there is plenty to do but the campus is not soaked in alcohol like many state schools. The campus is absolutely beautiful and just outside the gates is Washington, DC and the Georgetown neighborhood brimming with great shopping, entertainment, dining, and nightlife.

Besides the locational factors, the atmosphere at Georgetown makes it a wonderful place to be. The students are active and engaged in their community. They are social and accepting. All of these factors combine to make it a place where anyone can feel happy and at home.
Bang for the buck
A degree from Georgetown takes you places. With the degree comes a thorough and useable education both in liberal arts and specialty areas. The university is well known and respected worldwide opening up a huge range of job opportunities.

Also, do not be fooled by the tuition numbers given for Georgetown. Technically the total cost of attendance is approximately 55,000 per year. However, Georgetown's policy is to meet full demonstrated financial need with grants and scholarships meaning that many students are attending for a fraction of the advertised price.
Tips for prospective students
Prospective students should pursue a vigorous and well balanced high school course load. Apply early action since there is no requirement of attendance upon early admission and in many years the acceptance rate has been higher for early applicants. Do schedule an alumnus interview and prepare relevant questions. I also recommend writing a short personal thank you note to your interviewer.
Great for these types of students
Georgetown is a great place for a wide variety of students so long as they are motivated to succeed. Students must be willing to work hard but they will find the opportunities to pursue virtually any field of interest.

Georgetown is particularly strong in the fields of Foreign Service, History, International Relations, Politics, Business Management, Finance, Theology, Life Sciences, Nursing, and pre-med.

Anyone interested in studying in these fields or generally liberal arts at an elite university should consider Georgetown.

Charlene from Washington, DC

a current student here
16 people found this review useful
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In three sentences
Georgetown University Law Center is an amazing combination of high quality academics and networking opportunities. Everyday there is something going on..an Alumni cocktail, the book launch of a member of staff, judge, politician etc. There are many activities which target international students where experienced professionals in academia and legal practice share their wisdom to guide our employment pursuits. The international diversity is the number one reason attending this school is the best choice for a global career.
Tips for prospective students
Be prepared for information overload and exceptional opportunities. There is so much to do, so many people to meet, so little time. For international students, the application process is similar to many others in the US system however GU is unique in the holistic approach to the individual. Ensure also your finances are sufficient as there is no financial aid for non-US citizens and very limited scholarships.
Academic Rigor
The lecturers are exceptional, experienced and dedicated. As an international student, it does take some effort getting used to the system however I am finding that everyday I learn to improve my skill. The content is stimulating and enriching, but be warned, the variety of course selections is overwhelming!
Dorm Life
I live on campus a few steps away from my Law Center classes. It's a really comfortable and very convenient set of apartments. It's however very very expensive (typical DC costs!). There's a concierge, 1124 hours security, patrolling officers on the grounds 24/7 and you live in a clean, comfortable, safe environment. The rooms are good size and amenities comfortingly abundant. With a Health and Wellness Center attached to the main dorm it's hard to miss out on a good exercise regime.
Food and Dining
The campus is small so the on-campus selections are limited. However there are so many restaurants nearby and in the city centers near GU main campus that it's a great time to spend with new friends and share our culture.
What to do for fun
For fun, hang-out with your fellow classmates, Learn about their homes,cultures and ambitions. Have plenty of night out having drinks and going to dinner. School organizations put on a variety of well-organized and fun events. Learn new things and enjoy the experience. I watched a rugby match for the first time and it was interesting!
Bang for the buck
The buck is high, it is EXPENSIVE! I won't really know how worthwhile it is until I land the job of my dreams, which needs a Master in Laws and happens to have their headquarters here in DC. However it is a private school and the tuition is within the range of comparable universities I applied to. What really makes it worthwhile is location! Being in the heart of DC with the Courts just down the road and the Headquarters of major multilaterals. Georgetown faculty and staff ensure that we have a global oriented curriculum and are experts at maximizing this international experience.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The balconies at Gewirz Student dorms are a beautiful place to do yoga in the mornings.
Great for these types of students
Georgetown University Law Center is great for any student that needs to have an enriching, international, experiential learning experience. It's for the student or young professional who wants to grow not just as a lawyer but as a person with a world view....and who wants to make a ot of friends from all over the globe, while doing this.
Clubs and Activities
Over 100 clubs mean a lot of ways to be represented and to get involved.
Campus Safety
There are security patrols 24/7, very caring, observant and attentive. There are bulletins, a safety app and training to be aware of your surroundings. Personal safety is number one, there's even self-defense classes. I feel safe and comfortable. The only issue is that as an open campus quite a few persons can be seen passing through and that does feel a bit uncomfortable.

HOYA SAXA

a current student here
13 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There will be challenging classes, and there will be classes that are simply unlike any high school class. Depending on your prior knowledge, there will be some classes where the expectations seem unrealistic, but it is possible to excel. The professors are passionate about the subjects that they teach and are, for the most part, engaging and informative. The variety of classes offered allow students to study a wide range of subjects even if the student has no background in that particular field.
Am enjoying being here
The opportunities to participate are endless at Georgetown. Student organizations focus on culture, sexual orientation, athletics, food, service, politics, and much more. Georgetown students work hard and play hard. The campus is small which creates a relatively tight-knit community but students can easily access the larger D.C. community via the Metro Transit system.
Bang for the buck
Georgetown's tuition is admittedly high; Georgetown was ranked America's ninth most expensive college in Forbes' 2010 report. However, the opportunities to network, intern, and work while living in Washington, D.C., are second to none. Also, Georgetown has built a solid reputation in the academic and working community; regardless of what major is pursued, the degree and knowledge acquired are well worth the monetary sacrifice.
Tips for prospective students
Do not slack during your senior year and take challenging courses. Apply Early Action, which is non-binding, and set up your interview for a time when you will not be overly stressed. Make sure that you write a compelling application essay and that you give your teacher ample time to write his or her recommendation letter. Most importantly, visit campus if at all possible. Being on campus is one of the best ways to determine whether you will be happy at Georgetown. (Also, if you visit, don't step on the seal!) If you are admitted, be sure to participate in one of the pre-orientation programs.
Great for these types of students
Anyone who is willing to work hard and wants to achieve. Given its location, this school is especially good for those interested in studying political science, government, business, or languages.

Megan from Cedar Falls, IA

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I definitely feel that I am learning a lot more in my classes relative to my friends at peer institutions. I'm currently taking an intensive language and several discussion-based courses. I feel I'm learning a lot and I am able to apply my newly acquired knowledge to daily conversations and situations.
Am enjoying being here
I really love Georgetown. Honestly, I applied to Georgetown as a safety school and wound up matriculating.
For a private college campus, Georgetown is Extremely diverse. It's so awesome to walk through Red Square (or anywhere else on campus, for that matter) and to learn other languages being spoken; to walk down M Street and be able to sample Middle Eastern, Indian, American & Latin American food; to have the option of going to a Jon Stewart Rally or meeting President Barack Obama; and then, at the end of the day, go back to your common room and have an interesting intellectual debate about China's GDP, Health Care or even the mediocrity of Georgetown Cupcakes.
Bang for the buck
I think Georgetown allocates its money well (for the most part) and I feel that it's worth the insanely high Cost-of-Attendance.
Tips for prospective students
I came here thinking that I would be exploring DC virtually every weekend. That is not the case--because I don't make it a priority and also there are literally hundreds of things/events happening every night. So, make it a point to go into DC because it is soooo easy to stay on campus.
Great for these types of students
There's a strong emphasis on social justice/volunteering. Also, internationalism and politics.

Anonymous, From MA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
Georgetown is known for its challenging environment but also very supportive students and teachers.
Will enjoy being here
I spent a few weeks on campus this past summer and also went to the GAAP (admitted students) weekend and the campus is very lively and the students are surprisingly very friendly. The city is incredible. I'm sure it'll be hard to not go crazy with all the activities next year.
Bang for the buck
My biggest concern when applying to schools was the financial aid. Georgetown's aid was by far the best (it even beat another Ivy's offer) and I cannot believe I am paying close to nothing to attend this fall!
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus before you apply (or before you decide to enroll)- this also goes for every school you're considering. You get a feel for the campus and your gut will tell you if that is the place in which you belong!
Great for these types of students
Open-minded intellectuals who are excited by the thought of being able to take advantage of Georgetown's location.

Celeste from Atlanta, GA

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The courses at Georgetown are taguth by amazing professors who genuinely enjoy the subject they are teaching and present the information in a way that actually helps the students learn. Yes, Georgetown may have a large workload to deal with but the amount of information you learn is plentiful and relates to everyday life and other classes taught at Georgetown.
Am enjoying being here
I love being here; the location is great! There is never a dull moment on the campus, and even if you feel like there is there are so many attractions nearby that can entertain you. There are monuments, memorials, and even the White House are are in walking distance, plus if shopping is your thing then there is M Street which is filled with superb stores and restaurants. Plus it helps that DC is a university center, so Howard, George Washington, and American are nearby too.
Bang for the buck
Georgetown's bill is a huge dent in your pocket, but it's completely worth. The degree you'll get in the long-run will take you places and help you get hired by the world's best companies; what more could you ask for? Plus the financial aid packages here are AMAZING!
Tips for prospective students
Don't let Senioritis get the best of you! Learn how to study and manage your time and money BEFORE you get to college!
Great for these types of students
hard-workers, city lovers, vegetarians, government majors, International ______ majors, intelligent, passionate, outgoing people. Anyone can fit in here and find where they belong.

Lucy from Fresno, CA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
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Bang for the buck
The administration has a unique idea of what a budget intails. Budgets for end-of-the-year parties are huge, as are some club budgets. However, we still do not have wireless internet because it is too expensive.
Tips for prospective students
The administration can be trying at times, but the faculty and student body are engaging and unique. Washington, DC, cannot be topped. It is a fantastic place for internships and job offers. It is cultural and always evolving.
Great for these types of students
Most mainstream people (preps, jocks, nerds, etc.) will fit in, especially if they are impassioned and intelligent.

Harry from Peoria, IL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Great location in D.C. The prep is real, and turned me off initially, but it's all about who you surround yourself with. I find that people have a hard time relaxing.
Tips for prospective students
Do you like pre-professionalism or liberal arts learning? Georgetown's got plenty of both, but unfortunately the business/consulting aspect wins out in terms of appearance.
Academic Rigor
Depends on the class/teacher. You can half-ass it if you want, but school is hard - that's why you're there, right? Sciences and international relations seem to be strongest, but really you can't go wring.
Dorm Life
Freshmen dorms are hit-and-miss, it helps if you have upperclassmen buddies freshman year (I didn't)
Food and Dining
Leo's is the only dining hall but it's actually really not bad at all. Plenty of other options on and off-campus, though it's all expensive.
What to do for fun
Join student organizations, go see people speak, hang out, go see concerts/clubs in D.C..

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors here are amazing, I've not only learned about myself but about other cultures and how ultimately we are all united. This is the type of carefree learning environment were you will be pressured by other students to slack however it is important you stay on track. If you are looking to party on Thirsty Thursday take my advice and don't. Focus on studying, you've been accepted into this amazing institution, don't forget that.
Tips for prospective students
Don't go partying during the weekday, it will be tempting because most freshman come from small towns and aren't use to the carefree environment were you can basically do whatever you want and no one will stop you. You are an adult when you come here so don't assume that someone here will clean up your mess, take responsibility for your actions. As a freshman you will also get homesick but don't be absorbed into that! People here are very nice trust me!
Great for these types of students
Hardworking, carefree, independent, focus, driven.