George Mason University

Sustainability initiatives have been implemented throughout campus via a ‘Climate Action Plan,’ and the university continually invests in its infrastructure, so students have the best possible learning environment. There is even a greenhouse on campus, making the university appealing to climate-conscious students. Fenwick Library is the main library on campus, and it has various books, journals and other resources for students to learn and enjoy a quiet reading environment simultaneously. However, there are three other libraries giving students plenty of options for where to source their information.

Two recreation centers are dotted around campus, with everything from fitness classes to weight rooms available for widespread student use. There are also multiple student centers, so students have various dining options and event spaces to choose from. Multiple resource centers and performance spaces enhance the student experience with specialized equipment and rooms.

Thousands of events occur on campus annually, from keynote speaker talks to music concerts and beyond. There are also over 500 student clubs to get involved with, showing the community spirit that pervades the campus. Not only does this present students with entertainment opportunities, but to socialize with people from all different walks of life who share similar interests. 75% of first-year students live on campus, so the university grounds are always bustling with activity: from Asian Pacific American Heritage Month to Greek Week, all cultures and activities are represented in these colorful events.

The university is situated within the county of Fairfax, Virginia, just fifteen miles outside of Washington D.C. Fairfax has a lot of students in the area and boasts of a sophisticated arts and culture scene. There is history to explore here during the day and student-friendly bars to unwind in during the evening. It is also located just a train ride away from the infamous Washington DC; the capital of the USA.

US News & World Report has ranked George Mason University as the most diverse in Virginia and 35th most diverse in the country. More than half of its undergraduates are students of colour and it exceeds national graduation rates regardless of race, ethnicity or wealth status.

Three of George Mason University’s campuses are within the Northern Virginia suburbs of the Washington DC metropolitan area. This means it’s easy to get into the US capital city by public transport to explore the best that it has to offer, while enjoying the more affordable living of Fairfax.