Bob
I have some pretty small classes, so most of my professors know my name.
All of my classes require a lot of studying. Plus, most of my classes take attendance and require everyday participation.
Abby
The academics at GMU is highly noteworthy. I've always had really great professors. Classes tend to get smaller once you start getting into your major/concentration and you will be surprised to find many of the same students in your classes sometimes. I absolutely love the English Department at GMU. I've always had great English professors (many of them have doctorate degrees). Many of the professors vary, some are very personable while others are far from it. It just depends on the type of class you take and the teacher you get.
Ryan
I like GMU's academics. Since I have gotten into my major classes many of the professors know my name and strive to give extra help when needed whether it is for class material or networking purposes.
I have had some classes here at Mason that were a little easy. However, I have had more that were extensive and feel they prepared me for my career.
I think the education requirements are excellent here at Mason. I feel like I have gotten a well rounded education in my four years here.
Emily
Well, I came to Mason for a B.A to become an elementary school teacher. So because Mason's teacher ed program SUX I ended up in New Century College. (check is out on their website www.ncfc.gmu.edu) NCC is an integrative studies major and then you have a concentration...mine is obviously education. Basically, if you want to be a teacher try for a school with a 4 year program. Dont get me wrong NCC is a great college and I will still be able to use my degree to get a teacher licensure it just might take me longer. I'm not going to say much more except I am not trying to make NCC sound bad because its great, I just want people to know it is a lot of reflective writng, portfolios, and class discussions. All of that is better than a packed lecture hall, and the classes are unique and interesting. Well I hope that helps.
Emma
Depending on your class size, professors try their hardest to get to know their students. Alot of professors who teach larger classes even try to get to know their students. My favorite class so far has been my PR class with Professor Rowan. She is the most cheerful and most helpful professor I've had so far and she really wants to take care of her students, in and outside of class. My least favorite class was IT 103! I just don't get computers. Students tend to study a good amount. Class participation is common with certain students in every class. Some people prefer not to speak at all and let others do most of the talking. My major is communications and so far I love the department. I know a lot of students who have graduated from this department have gone far in the Communication world and I plan to be one of them, thanks to the great staff and classes I have and will take at Mason.
Fran
My favorite classes were religion, geology, and geography because the teachers were abosolutely amazing! My least favorite class was history because the teacher was horrible.
Leah
I am in the Honors Progam for General Education and in the Music Department. Teachers in the Honors Program know my name because we have classes under 25 and they are very approachable. If we have a paper or a project we often have to meet with them one on one to discuss it. Participation in class discussion also makes it easy for teachers to learn our names.
In the music department, everyone knows everyone, and the ensemble directors know everybody's name. Musicians here at Mason are very personable and welcoming.
Classes for my psychology major are the biggest classes I have. I think my largest class was 80 people, and not everyone showed up all the time. In no class did I feel uncomfortable participating or asking to meet with the teacher.
I have intellectual conversations with other students outside of class. I think academically, your typical GMU student is more laid back than a student at an ivy league; however, there are plenty of opportunities to become involved and challenge yourself academically. I think people have more of a choice here.
GMU is geared towards both getting a job and learning for its own sake. Internships are everywhere and Career Services will aid anyone in getting a job. The Honors Program is definitely geared towards learning for the sake of learning. Instead of a huge and broad general education class, the Honors program is more specific and addresses things that most people have never thought of.
Francis
I am not disappointed in Mason academics at all. There is a great studying environment at the Johnson Center. I hope the trend continues with any future buildings that mason has planned. I am quite satisfied with Mason academics, but at the same time hope that it only continues to get better.
Jesse
Do professors know your name?
Most
Tell us about your favorite class.
Arabic is by far the most educational classs I've taken.
Least favorite?
Fundamentals of Music - fine art credit, very boring
How often do students study?
Few hours a week.
Is class participation common?
No
Do GMU students have intellectual conversations outside of class?
No
Are students competitive?
No
What's the most unique class you've taken?
Counter-insurgency
Tell us about your major/department. Do you spend time with professors outside of class?
Nope.
How do you feel about GMU 's academic requirements?
The requirements are idiotic. Students have to take two years of classes that have nothing to do with their major.
Is the education at GMU geared toward getting a job, or learning for its own sake?
The education is not geared towards anything in particular, getting a job or otherwise.
Kelly
Some professors in my major know my name. Others could care less (those are often found in other departments, though). I hate spanish class. I hate the language requirement.
GMU students study a lot- especially if they want a decent grade.