If only I Had Known This when I First Came to GW (Part 2)

Asif Mobin, M.B.A., School of Business

Be able to change, because I came in with just the idea of M.B.A., but I went on to get a certification from the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and am probably going to get a Ph.D. It's all about being able to have that ability to want something more, and GW makes you want to do something more.

Emily Ortega, M.P.S., College of Professional Studies

Don't be intimidated by the curriculum. Because when you're doing something that you've always dreamed about doing or something that you love, it's not that hard. So, don't be worried about pursuing your bachelor's degree, your master's or doctorate, whatever it is. Because when it's in something that you love, it makes it so much easier. So that's what I wish I knew because I was so horrified coming into this. Just make sure you love what you're studying, and study what you love.

Michael Pissos, M.P.S., Graduate School of Political Management

The biggest thing I would say to incoming students, without a doubt, is just take advantage of all the resources that GW offers. Attend career seminars where you can learn the best way to build your LinkedIn profile or how to interview for jobs. Go on the Handshake app, join a student organization, get involved. And the other thing I would say is make it a point to talk to all of your professors. I made it a point to connect with each and every one of my professors, just to get to know them a bit on a personal level. Beyond the subject of school, these are people that I can go back to in the future and maintain relationships with. I couldn't recommend that enough.

Maureen Rafter, B.A., Columbian College of Arts and Sciences

Make the most of everything GW and D.C. can offer! Explore the city as much as you can, sign up for classes that sound interesting even if they aren't in your major and don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Four years go by fast-use this time to change, grow and figure out who you are. Work hard, but don't forget to have fun; GW is academically rigorous, but don't let that stop you from enjoying D.C. while earning your degree.

Thejasvi Ranu, M.A., CCAS

Make you sure you take your core classes in the beginning so that you've mastered the fundamentals. And then you can conquer all the electives later.

Natalie Wagner, D.P.T., School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Make the most of the connections that you have here at GW. D.C. is an amazing city, and GW is so well connected to the city and the greater DMV area. Also, take advantage of all the free events that D.C. has to offer. I remember going to a special night event at the National Gallery of Art that was incredible-it was so cool to be there after hours!

Selamawit Weimer, B.A., CCAS

Find your people first. Don't worry about having it all figured out, trying to ace every class. Make the most of the time you have with the people who value you and just allow yourself to change and go to people who allow you to grow and encourage you to grow. [Those people] supported me and motivated me to do things I'm passionate about but I'm scared to do and showed up to support me. Find people who make sure you are the best version of yourself and make you believe you can do anything.

Taylor White and Melanie Donjuan, B.S., School of Engineering and Applied Science

White: I would say to first-year students-just keep your head on straight. Go after what you want, but also find your community and make the most of your time. Not everything is about academics. This is a unique time in your life, and it's very pivotal to make new experiences and memories.

Donjuan: Yeah, and while you're having new experiences, be comfortable with making mistakes and errors. Especially in your first year, you think you have to do it right the first time. Yes, you're setting a foundation in your first year, but learning from your mistakes will also solidify your foundation and set you up for success.

White: Yes. It's OK to change your major!

Xitong (Rocky) Yuan, B.F.A., Corcoran School of the Arts and Design (CCAS)

As a graphic design major, I benefit from the opportunities at Corcoran and the broader resources of GWU. These include free studio workshops (photography, screen printing, career navigation), master talks from design experts (National Gallery of Art, The Washington Post, Gensler), and the free writing center at Gelman Library, which enhances writing and research skills. GW professors provide an immersive learning experience both inside and outside the classroom. Professor Marc Choi significantly enriched our education with design studio field trips and a multidimensional curriculum (guest critiques, public presentations, design workshops) that extends learning beyond the classroom into Washington, D.C.'s, vibrant environment. I highly recommend engaging more with GW professors, perhaps by grabbing a cup of coffee during their office hours. They are not only professional and friendly but also eager to share their wisdom and life advice.