George Mason University Top Questions

What should every freshman at George Mason University know before they start?

Jae

Talk to many people on campus or know about the school as possible. Then make sure to go visit the campus to see how it really is and if you just feel the right fit right away the school is probably not the one for you. You can get most out of college if you can effectively manage your time. If you dawdle then you will end up missing out on lots of stuff. However, if you focus and be very productive with your time, you will be able to do everything you want to and still do well in school. Make sure you find you surround yourself around good influence because you do become who your surrounded by so make sure your careful in choosing your true friends. If you choose the right school and manage your time well, then not only are you going to have fun but also do well in school and get the most out of college.

Elizabeth

Find a school that has a great deal of academic diversity. You never know when you might decide to try something new, even if it is only one class' worth. Also find a school that has some little corner that reminds you of home, like a favorite chain restaurant. When things get too tough and you need a break, or feel homesick, or just sick of college, go there and treat yourself to feeling like you are home, even for just for a half-hour. Even if you don't really need to, use the campus resources, like academic advising. They are there to help you, and another set of eyes are always better then one, even if you don't agree. Make a friend in every class, so if you ever miss a day, they can help you with what you missed, and in the end, you will have a large number of friends after 8 semesters of classes! Explore the area around your campus, there are likely some hidden gems that will help you enjoy your free time, save money, or jump start your career.

Shaina

There are so many factors that go into choosing the right college for an individual. First, the parent and student need to consider financial factors and locations that are suitable for the student. Once this is discussed, it is important to think about possible future career moves so the student can narrow down specific majors of interest. In addition, the student should research the clubs, sports, and organizations that different colleges of interest have to offer. These are key factors that will help the student and the parent to make an educated decision on whether or not a school is ideal. Once these options have been researched, it is vital that the parent(s) and the child visit the schools together to get a feel for the environment, the students, and the faculty. Now, the student can apply to the colleges of their choice, and for any scholarships or financial aid they see fit. Going to college is truly a privilage and a wonderful experience, so it is important that the student make the most of it by studying hard, meeting new people, and forming friendships that will last forever. College life is a great transition into the working world.

Marisa

Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. To make it easier, be sure to keep a few simple points in mind. The three most important aspects of a college include: academics, professors, and student life. Academics is definitely the most important aspect when you are looking at colleges. You should make sure that the college is credible, offers your major and check into the average size of the classes. Secondly, the types of professors are imperative to your learning. The professors should be friendly, excellent in their fields, and eager to help students learn to the best of their ability. Next, student life is important because the social aspect of college can build important social skills you will need for your whole life. Be positive that you enjoy being on campus and that you feel a sense of belonging. Also, take a look at the facilities and housing areas. Conclusively, it is extremely important to visit the campuses of the schools you apply to. If you keep these three points in mind, you can assure yourself that you will make the most out of your college experience.

Jasmine

I would tell students and parents to make sure their college of choice has a variety of academic programs and a diverse student body. There are so many opportunities available to those that are willing to seek them out. Another factor are the professors, professors should have real life experience in order to better help guide students through their college career. Also the college must feel safe. I grew up in Northern VA and I know that George Mason is a safe campus and I feel comfortable at all times when I?m on campus. Lastly visit the campus or college more than once to get a better feel for how campus life really is. Try and find a tour guide that can take you around campus without a group so that you can blend in more and see how students and teachers on campus really act. Ask your tour guide or other students how campus life is and what the teachers in your academic field are like. Most importantly see if you are comfortable at the university, because if you?re it will be harder for you to enjoy your college career and what it has to offer.

Jacquelyn

I think that the most important factor in deciding what college to attend would be do go and visit the schools that you are thinking of attending. Actually talk to a variety of students that attend that school , and see what they think of it and get tips of what some good things you should do when you get there. It is one thing to go on a guided tour of a school and read pamphlets, but to get the real experience of the school I think it is necessary to talk to actual students and see what campus life is like. Once you've found the school that you think is right for you, and have been accepted, try to make a good set of friends and join something extracurricular (sport, club, sorority/fraternity, job, etc.), to have something positive besides just learning to keep yourself busy and entertained.

Nina

I would advise studnets and parents to give carful consideration when it comes to choosing a university/college. Students should have some sort of idea of what they want to do in life. Then they can choose a school that is well known and has a good program in that specific field. The cost is always important, so I would advise to look into scholarships well before graduating from high school. Filling out their FAFSFA should also be top priority for those who qualify. As for the college experience, my advise whould be to not rush into anything and take life as it comes.

Jenna

Choosing the right college is difficult. Don't be afraid to make the wrong choice. My first school was one that I loved. I loved everything about it, and it was a place where I made lifelong friends, made some great memories, and loved my classes. But it ultimately wasn't the right school. I had to consider my entire life and future, not just my social life or a life where I can pursue subjects purely for fun, with no real consideration for the future. Try to recognize the things that make you happy AND productive, and look for a school that provides this balance. College is a great time, from which you will take lifetime friends and lifetime memories. But it is also a time to learn about yourself and prepare for your future, because believe me: it sure comes fast. Be romantic about your choice, but be practical, too. And if you later find that your choice seems to lean too much in one of those directions, you can always change your mind. It's college, and it's big, but it's not forever.

Sharita

The search for the right college is one of the most important life decisions. There are so many details to keep in mind including distance, cost, availability of your major, and activities. You should also research all of your possible options and prepare a list of the schools that you want to apply, schedule your high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores to be sent to the appropriate offices in a timely fashion, fill out the FAFSA (it may seem like a difficult process but it is the only way to determine your eligibilty for grants. ), and make sure that you provide an advance notice to people who you would like to write your letters of recommendation. As for making the most of the college experience, that is ultimately up to you. If you want a great college experience you have to create it for yourself. Be actively involved with on campus activities; it is a great way to meet new people. The best way to make the most of your college experience is to make it your own and college is the perfect opportunity to discover yourself.

Amanda

When searching for the right school for you, don't forget that you'll be the one attending it. Take others opinions into consideration, but overall, you want to find a right fit for you. Make a plan of what you're looking for in a school, and search for that criteria. If you participated in activities in high school, you may want to consider contributing to them again in college. Look for schools that offer the same or similar activities so you have the opportunity to become involved on campus. Be selective, there are many colleges that offer many if not all of the criteria you are looking for. Also, don't settle, don't choose a college that has only one out of ten things you are looking for. Being involved in campus activities is a great way to meet new people and become diverse in your experiences. If you plan to stay close to home, I recommend that you consider living on campus. Being away from home will help you gain more knowledge about being independent and more responsible. Most important of all, put effort into your search, you will be there for two to four years!

Jennifer

My best advice for finding the right college would be to physically visit the campus in order to get a feel for how daily life at that school would be. Go during a normal school day, mingle with the student body in the campus hot-spots, visit the dorms and classroom buildings, libraries, etc. Talk to the students, and ask them how they feel at their school. Academics are essential for college success, but so is your social well-being and comfort level. Go to a college only if you feel inspired, energized, and relaxed by being there. While attending your school of choice, always go to class and appreciate the new knowledge that your professors are sharing with you. Listen to what others have to say, and always keep an open mind. Discover all of the student activities that are available to you, and choose to participate in what best suits your personality. Take pride in yourself, and never forget that your future is in your hands. Success is not just about getting good grades, but also about participating and enjoying yourself while on campus in order to grow and mature into a confident, happy, and knowledgeable young adult.

Arifin

Finding the right college is the one of the hardest thing for any individual. It is every student's dream to get into a right college which will have the most important effect in order to be successful in his/her life. There are three ways that a student can find the right college. First, students should start searching for the right college from very beginning of his/her high school year. This way the student can prepare him or herself aheas of the time. Secondly, once the student get a list of possible colleges that he/she may have interest in, the student should look whether or not those colleges offer the major that the student is interested in. Finally, the student can narrow down the list by looking for the colleges that requires standard tuition fees. I think this processes will help any students who are looking for the right college.

Pete

Finding the right college is an incredibly demanding process. Student testimonials probably give the best assessment of a school; however, getting an honest student opinion can be difficult. Go to campuses on a weekday - although it's easier to go on weekends, you miss out on some of the atmosphere by going while classes are not in session. Explore campuses with a guided tour, but also take some time without a guide. Ask for help if you're lost - see how the average student responds. Read reviews of the college online and view some national rankings and statistics. Most importantly, though, figure out what you want in terms of size, demographics, location, etc. and pursue colleges that fit these preferences. Once you have chosen a college, get involved as early as possible with the campus community. Join student organizations as an underclassmen so that you can lead them as an upperclassmen - being one of the leaders at your university will provide you with a much more satisfying college experience. Learn via classes, but also take time and learn via internships, study abroad and other programs. This will provide the most holistic and fulfilling education your college can offer.

Minh

Finding the right college is not an easy task but the outcome is worth the effort. Try to find a school that you will be content with because you want to make the most of your four years. Research helps out a lot but seeing for yourself is worth more. Some things you can research online but the best way to find out what it would like to be to attend a school is to find our first hand. Ask some students about their opinions. Sit in a class and make observations. Only then can you make an appropriate decision. As for your college experience....EXPERIENCE! The only way you can see how things work out is to try things out. Do not be afraid to go out there and do something. Try new things and do not forget to just be yourself.

Carlin

Every student has individual needs and ways in which they learn. Students and parents must realistically asses the needs and strengths of the student. The specific needs of the student can then be matched to the strengths and weaknesses of universities. It is important to be honest with yourself when applying and determining in the environments in which you can succeed. Doing this will hopefully help you go to a university where you fit in and save you a lot of stress as you adjust to the college environment.

Rodney

To relax and have fun. Sure academics are important but you have to remember that college is the best 4 years of your life. You'l never have an experienc like this again. The best way to succeed academically is socially. The relationships you build with people in college can last you a lifetime or be a huge favor for you later down the road. Usually the kids that succeed were able to balance an active social life and their classes. Is it easy? Sometimes no. But is it rewarding? Oh definitely! A college professor once told me, "Have fun now while you still can because after this, you'll always be working." I also heard another professor said, "College is a four-year vacation from reality, but it will the best and only one you'll have. Don't let it go by." If your college professor is telling you this, coming from a former student him or herself, then I would take their advice.

Nicole

When finding the right college for you, meet with your high school guidance counselor and decide what your major will be, or at least decide what your interests are. They will help find the colleges that cover your interests academically. To be pick the number one college for you, however, you are going to have to dig a little deeper. There are websites where students give testimonials, rate their school, and offer statistics comparing the schools. These websites offer you the personal information that college brochures and college websites do not. You will be able to discover just how involved the students are, what they really do on the weekends, what stigmas are associated with the college, etc. Once you are in your college, you are going to experience something similar to culture shock. Getting involved in as many things possible freshman year, truly helps you adjust and love college. Go to the events your school hosts, the games, club meetings, etc. They are a great way to meet new people, put your name out there, and help you discover the person you are becoming. By sophomore year, you be able to narrow the activities to what suits you.

Luke

Students, go to college on your own terms. Listen to the advise carefully, be grateful for it, but in the end make your own decision. Stand by what you believe in and don't water down who you are because it's what you think the admissions office wants to hear. Whatever you do, don't fear the new and unusual, as it is often the new and unusual that makes all the difference in our world.

Monica

I would tell students that they should visit a few different schools before deciding on one, andto visit while classes are in session if they can. It's hard to make the most out of your college experience at a school that just isn't right for you, and visiting a variety of colleges will help students make the right choice. I'd also encourage students to ask lots of questions, while picking a school and after starting classes. It's much better to look stupid once than be stupid for a long time.

Tarek

Some simple advice to both parents and students with college futures: do not overthink your decision! Throughout my years of high school I would hear one of the most common subjects of converstation within the school halls: which college will you attend? I understood why high school students would be so worried and preoccupied with the selection of a university to attend after high school graduation. It is definitely a big decision and one that will impact that students immediate and foreseeable future, but one big mistake that students can make is making such a big deal about where to go. One thing that I have noticed after my first year of college is that the coursework I am learning would presumably be similar, if not the same, had I went to some other college. The important thing to take away from college are skills and experience in an environment where the student relies mostly on themself. A dedicated student will do well no matter where you place them, so the moral of the story is to focus on doing well, not where you will be doing it. Follow this advice and you will do well in college and life.