<p>Hi, I am a prospective student for George Washington University. I posted this on a GW myspace group but havent gotten any replies yet. I visited GW this summer and fell in love with everything I toured (from the capus/dorms to the many research opportunities). However, because I visited the campus during the summer, the only thing that I was not able to view was GW's social and student life. I was wondering if you could tell me a little about what you think about the students at GW, what the students are like, and your experiences/interactions with them. I always hear mixed things about the student lives and have heard about a few people who end up transfering after their first year. Is this really true? If so, what is it about GW that seems to make it true.</p>
<p>Besides that unknown, I seem to like everything else about GW. Plus, GW is in DC, and it seems as though there is so much to do! Thanks so much for your time and I am sorry to bother you all on such random questions ;) LOL</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Honestly, I think the social life at GW is amazing. I've only been here for a semester since I'm a freshman, but I've already made the kind of friends I can envision keeping for a lifetime. </p>
<p>How wild your social life is depends very much on what dorm you stay in, in my personal opinion. I currently live in Thurston, which has the reputation of being a "wild party dorm" for freshman. Having said that, however, you can be as wild as you want in other dorms or as mild as you want in Thurston. Don't let stereotypes fool you too much. </p>
<p>Because GW is right-smack-in-the-center of DC, you have a variety of clubs available to your disposal. Many places are 18+ to enter, 21+ to drink, and there are always at least 3-4 themed club nights a weekend. If clubbing is not really your thing, you can attend the plethora of greek parties, even if you don't pledge. Personally, greek life isn't really my thing, but the parties are fun and a great way to meet people. Dorm parties are also very common, especially in Thurston. I know of many a student who live in other halls that actually consider coming to THURSTON for a night as a social activity. </p>
<p>I know I am very happy here, and have only heard of a few people who are wanting to transfer. More often than not, decisions to transfer are based on money, for GW is NOT a cheap school to attend if you don't have scholarships or substantial financial aid packages.</p>
<p>GW has quite a good freshman retention rate: 92%</p>
<p>Ah yes that is good to know. But if by chance, you happen to live on Mount Vernon, then are you still able to meet others and not feel quite isolated? </p>
<p>And how exactly are the students threre? Katia, could you describe a typical GW student? Are they really stuck-up/snobbish as some other people say they are? Or are they friendly too?</p>
<p>92% ? Is that an average figure?</p>
<p>b-u-m-p</p>
<p>does anyone else have any imput???</p>
<p>I know several people who are students at GWU. They absolutely love it there. The two main reasons some don't fit in are money and city life. It's expensive to live in any large city and it takes a certain level of maturity to live without family in one. If you are coming from a suburban or rural environment with little exposure to city life it can sometimes be a difficult adjustment.</p>
<p>The people I've met are great. Sure, you'll find quite a few people who are VERY well off financially and stuck up, but the student body is still diverse enough to give you the chance to find your niche. If you make an effort to join various clubs, hang out at different dorms and meet new people, you'll eventually find a group of friends that suits you.</p>
<p>I really don't think I can offer a description of the "typical" GW student, because everyone I've met and grown friendly with is so unique! I know that sounds so cliche, but it's very true.</p>
<p>As for people living on the Vern... I have quite a few friends who live on the Vern and love it. You typically do still come to Foggy Bottom to socialize, but the Vern shuttle runs often and you don't have to be isolated if you make a concerted effort to go out.</p>
<p>what's your perception of the American U and Georgetown kids? Have you had any interaction with them?</p>
<p>good question alan, and how would you compare their kids to those at GW?</p>