Making the most of George Washington University starts with the city’s edge. Located steps from the federal government, international organizations, major think tanks and cultural institutions, the university puts students in a powerful position to pair classroom learning with real-world experience. That proximity creates a distinct advantage for students focused on policy, international affairs, public health, journalism and other careers that benefit from access to leaders, research and internships.
Capitalize on location: internships, networking and events
One of the smartest moves for any student is to treat the city itself as an extended campus. Internships on Capitol Hill, placements at federal agencies, fellowships with NGOs and roles at media outlets are all within daily reach. Attend public lectures, panel discussions and book talks that regularly bring high-profile policymakers and scholars to campus. Building relationships through these events and following up with concise, professional outreach can turn a single classroom connection into a meaningful opportunity.
Academic strengths and research hubs
The university hosts strong programs in international affairs, public policy, health sciences and journalism.
Research centers and schools focused on these areas often run public programming, grant-funded projects and policy labs that accept student researchers and interns.
Use campus research portals and faculty office hours to identify openings, and volunteer for projects to gain experience and references.
Make the career services work for you
Take advantage of career advising, résumé workshops and on-campus recruiting. Career fairs draw employers from government, nonprofits and the private sector, making them ideal for exploratory conversations. Schedule mock interviews and request targeted feedback on applications — these small investments pay off quickly when competition for internships and entry-level roles is high.
Student life, media and activism
Campus life blends rigorous academics with active student media and a longstanding culture of civic engagement.
The student newspaper and radio station provide opportunities to build journalism skills and document campus conversations. Student organizations range from professional societies and cultural groups to advocacy collectives; joining a few related to your major or interests accelerates both learning and networking.
Libraries and study resources
Campus libraries and academic support centers offer more than books: research consultations, specialized databases, interlibrary loan and quiet study spaces are all essential for producing strong coursework and research. Librarians can help track down archival material and government documents that are otherwise hard to find.
Practical tips for living in Foggy Bottom and the surrounding neighborhoods
Transportation options include local transit lines, bike routes and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Plan housing with proximity to campus and transit in mind, and budget for the local cost of living. Food options, cultural venues and green spaces nearby make it easy to balance study with downtime. Safety awareness and community engagement — getting to know neighbors and building a small network around campus — improves daily life.
Athletics and campus identity
Athletics provide another route into campus life, whether as an athlete, fan or volunteer. Games and sporting events are social hubs that help students meet peers from different disciplines. Getting involved with intramural or club sports is an efficient way to stay active and connected.
Final recommendations
Engage early, use campus resources deliberately and prioritize experiences that align with career goals. The combination of a research-focused curriculum and immediate access to the nation’s policy and cultural centers makes the university an ideal place for students who want hands-on experience. Take advantage of events, internships and faculty mentorship to turn academic work into tangible career momentum.