<p>My son has acceptances at a few Univ of California schools and at GWU Eliott school. I would like a parents perspective re: diversity, campus life, academics at Eliott is the cost worth it ? Any parent perspective would be welcome.</p>
<p>My son and I toured GWU and Elliot last year after he was accepted.</p>
<p>GWU is an urban campus...you really have to get used to the fact that it blends into the surrounding city. Elliot's facilities and instructors are top-notch and access to Washington D.C. really make it a very good incubator for the policy-oriented student. </p>
<p>As for campus life, it's a very fast-paced, high-energy type of atmosphere that can be a distraction, but some people thrive in this environment. GWU's philosophy is, "The city is the classroom." They will emphasize that point a lot.</p>
<p>During the adminstration's presentation, there was quite a bit of name-dropping (ambassador so-and-so was just here, and agency head what-his-name can be seen in our library...) which many parents took umbrage with. On the other hand, the students just ate it up.</p>
<p>The freshmen dorm we toured was very disappointing...especially when one considers what they charge for it. Cleanliness of the city campus left a bit to be desired.</p>
<p>The Mount Vernon campus is a bus ride away and a very nice, quiet retreat area.</p>
<p>If you're son is itching to get in on the intern-scene, you can't beat GWU. However, there is a school-of-thought that one can go to a good quality undergrad school outside of Washington and intern there in the summers.</p>
<p>Is it worth it? Full-freight for GWU is 50K+...in my judgement, it would only be worth it if your son is going to take full advantage of GWU's location, internship opportunities and is fully committed to Elliott/international affairs. If there's any chance he's uncommitted and may change his major, go for UC. </p>
<p>I strongly recommend a visit to GWU before making any decision. You won't get a sense of the city campus until you see it for yourself.</p>
<p>Which UC schools? Chances are he is better off at UC. GWU is better for grad school. It has always been in the shadow of Georgetown for UG. Not worth the 50+K per year.</p>
<p>I would probably recommend GW for a grad school. I went there for my MA in International Affairs and was glad to be in DC for that experience. It worked as the grad classes are typically at night, so you could study and intern during the day. </p>
<p>Myself I like a traditional campus feel, so I’m glad I went to one for undergrad. Then I could go to the more urban school for the advanced degree.</p>