I was offered a position to study abroad as a Freshman! Specifically, my school had a new special program for Freshmen to choose a place to go abroad instead of waiting until typically Junior year. I was able to study abroad at George Mason’s second campus in South Korea.
Course Curriculum :
The curriculum is very updated. I’ve had classes integrate interesting discussions about social media and new technologies, BLM movement, social injustices. I’ve also had to completely projects interviewing people in positions of power or people in professions of my choice to gain more exposure to diverse perspectives or advice.
Exams :
This school did not require any standardized tests. I did take the SAT and received an 1150 but did not submit this score. I submitted my IB test results which totaled to 38/45.
Placement :
I am not too certain about this. However, a company I know has visited is Deloitte. I often hear about most opportunities on a platform for students called Handshake.
Internship :
I have not.
Fees :
I believe my tuition is around $65k a year.
Scholarship :
I got a scholarship for being an out-of-state student for $6500 a year. I received it automatically and did not have to apply.
Faculty :
The general faculty-to-student ratio seems to be 1:50, but we often also have 1-3 TAs to help answer questions or be available for office hours/ smaller groups.
Campus Life :
Campus life is okay. I feel as though I should have done more research about the school beforehand though. I loved it when I saw that the school was huge and had lots of students; however, I didn’t realize most of the students were commuter students. Given so, a typical weekend at the school felt a little lonely on campus unless I made my way off campus. Additionally, I had always heard that it took 20 minutes to get to DC but I found it took a lot longer so I wasn’t always motivated to go out. The school does offer many clubs and events that make up for this social life though! Events mainly happen during the week and we have a building called “The Hub” which has a full arcade, karaoke and fun events to go to with friends or to meet new people. I honestly have not gone to many different sports events but I do love the basketball games! We have a full stadium and it’s often packed with supporters. This same stadium (Eagle Bank) was also used to house concerts. Specifically, we had a well-known k-pop group hold a concert there which was insanely fun! Besides this, the school does have a research/fun center near our library. GMU is a very research-encouraged school so you can often find projects through professors. Many classes will also have you participate in research to get a feel for it and be prepared to do your own.
Hostel :
I believe most accommodations fall between $7-$12k, depending on which housing style you choose. Housing is guaranteed for freshmen but I’ve been able to get housing for all four years.
