Strengths:
* Strong programs: GMU has highly regarded programs in areas like computer science, economics, public policy, and international relations. Specific rankings within these departments often place them favorably.
* Location: Its location in Northern Virginia offers proximity to Washington, D.C., providing excellent internship and career opportunities, especially in government and related fields.
* Research opportunities: As a research university, GMU offers undergraduate and graduate students opportunities to engage in research projects.
* Affordability (relatively): As a public university, GMU is generally more affordable than many private universities, though tuition costs are still increasing.
* Diverse student body: GMU boasts a diverse student population, enriching the campus experience.
Weaknesses:
* Large class sizes: Being a large university, some introductory courses can have large class sizes, potentially impacting the level of individual attention students receive.
* Limited campus life (relative to smaller universities): The sprawling campus and large student population can sometimes make it feel less intimate than smaller colleges.
* Commute: The campus is quite spread out, requiring some students to rely heavily on shuttles or cars to get around.
In conclusion:
GMU is a solid university with several excellent programs and a prime location. However, it's not perfect for everyone. If you're looking for a smaller, more intimate college experience with close faculty-student interaction, GMU might not be the best fit. But if you prioritize strong programs in certain fields, location advantages, research opportunities, and affordability, it could be an excellent choice. You should thoroughly research specific departments and programs of interest to you and compare GMU to other universities based on your individual criteria.