George Washington University

George Washington is a larger school that stresses hands-on learning and offers connections and opportunity aplenty for its undergraduate students. They boast excellent international relations and journalism programs, and is THE place to get a political science major. Five star faculty teach classes balancing theory and practice in a pragmatic blend. The “campus” is nonexistent, as it is integrated into the city. Outside of class, there isn't much school spirit - lifestyles are pretty independent and students create their own experience.

Popular majors / known for: International relations, business, political science, journalism

Academic approach: Private research university. George Washington University encourages engagement with its partner institutions in Washington, DC, including the Library of Congress, the National Zoo, the IMF, the World Bank, and the National Institutes of Health.

Fun fact: GWU’s basketball court, the Smith Center, has been used as an international press venue during events such as treaty signings and conferences.

Campus tradition: “Pet the River Horse” is a campus tradition where GW students rub the nose of the bronze statue of a hippopotamus in front of Lisner Auditorium. This is supposed to grant you good grades on finals!

Check out campus photos here!

School also featured in: Similar to Highly Selective - Columbia