By Meaghan Rondeau, MA Anthropology 2018

Those of us who live here, know that Washington D.C. is a pretty fantastic place. The history is unbeatable, the bar scene is fun, and who doesn’t enjoy a little sightseeing every once in awhile? Aside from my lifelong goal to be Olivia Pope, there is another major draw to this city. You guessed it, George Washington University. GWU first came on the map for me due to its academic reputation. If you say you are attending graduate school at GWU, it’s pretty clear that you’re at least a little bit smart. Aside from that, the major plus for GWU (a least for me) was it’s connections. Their central location in the nation’s capital pretty much gives you access to anywhere you want to intern, and eventually work. Most of the faculty at GWU have connections all over the city, and obtaining your top choice internship is often easier than you could ever anticipate. I was lucky enough to participate in two internships at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, and I was able to build both professional and personal connections that will last a lifetime.

Some other draws to both DC and GWU are the atmosphere and people. This is my first time living in a city, and I was completely ready for the scary hustle bustle and people walking into you on sidewalks and taxi drivers yelling swears out their windows. Turns out that’s just NYC. I have honestly never felt more at home in a city than I do here. It is slow paced, people are friendly, and I never feel unsafe. Of course, all cities have their flaws, but I was definitely pleasantly surprised with the vibe I got when I moved here. GWU in particular is bursting with friendly students, happy pedestrians, and helpful staff members!

Guys, applying to grad school is HARD. We all know that. The GRE’s suck, writing application essays is tedious, and asking for recommendations is awkward. After lots of research, numerous campus visits, and countless emails with faculty, I am so grateful I settled on GWU. I really felt a connection to both this school and this city, and I know a lot of people who had the same experience. There is a perfect school out there for everyone, and I am very lucky that this happened to be mine! & I know it can be yours too 🙂