George Washington University offers a distinctive blend of urban opportunity, research resources, and public-service orientation that appeals to students who want to be at the center of national and global decision-making.
Located in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C., the campus sits within walking distance of federal agencies, think tanks, embassies, and cultural institutions — a constant advantage for internships, networking, and experiential learning.
Academic strengths
GW is well known for programs that connect directly to the policy and professional ecosystem in the capital.
International affairs, public policy, public health, law, business, and engineering are strong draws, supported by faculty who combine scholarly work with real-world experience. Research activities span health sciences, cybersecurity, urban sustainability, and social policy, with cross-disciplinary centers that frequently partner with government and nonprofit organizations.
Hands-on learning and career pathways
One of the university’s biggest selling points is access to internships and practical placements. Students regularly secure opportunities at federal agencies, congressional offices, international organizations, and leading nonprofits. A robust career services operation helps translate those experiences into full-time job offers, while alumni connections in Washington and around the world provide mentoring and recruitment pipelines.
Campus life and community
Life on campus balances the intensity of city living with active student engagement. A wide array of student organizations covers everything from cultural interest groups and political clubs to entrepreneurship, performing arts, and varsity sports. Residential life centers campus culture, and campus health centers, counseling services, and safety programs are designed to support student wellbeing amid a busy urban environment.
Research, health, and innovation
The university’s medical and health partnerships—along with clinical facilities nearby—create strong pathways for students interested in medicine, public health, and biomedical research. Engineering and applied science students benefit from labs and collaboration opportunities that frequently intersect with industry needs in cybersecurity and infrastructure. Innovation hubs and entrepreneurship resources encourage students to prototype ideas, pitch to investors, and launch ventures while still in school.
Sustainability and campus development
Sustainability is a recurring priority across campus operations and curricular offerings.
Initiatives include energy-efficiency upgrades, sustainable dining practices, and programs that integrate climate resilience into planning and research. These efforts are part of broader campus improvements that aim to maintain a modern urban campus while minimizing environmental impact.
Practical tips for future and current students
– Leverage location: Begin researching and applying for internships as early as possible; short-term placements can snowball into longer opportunities.
– Network strategically: Attend speaker events, policy panels, and career fairs — they often feature professionals directly recruiting students.
– Get involved: Join at least one student organization to build leadership experience and community ties.
– Explore research: Contact faculty whose work aligns with your interests; many welcome undergraduate and graduate research assistants.
– Use campus resources: Career services, writing centers, and academic advisors can dramatically improve resumes, applications, and grad-school preparation.
Why it matters
For students drawn to public affairs, global engagement, or professional careers that benefit from close proximity to policymaking and industry leaders, this university provides low-friction access to the networks and experiences that matter.
Whether the goal is public service, healthcare leadership, entrepreneurship, or advanced study, the combination of location, program variety, and institutional partnerships makes it a compelling option for ambitious students.
If you’re considering applying or transferring, visiting campus and arranging meetings with faculty and career advisers will give the clearest sense of how specific programs align with your goals.