Welcome to Student Life!

It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to The George Washington University community. I look forward to meeting you and your family when you arrive on campus. Until then, I want to introduce you to a few of the reasons why GW provides such a special opportunity for a well-rounded educational and life experience.   

Our philosophy is to provide you an intellectually stimulating environment while engaging you in an array of out-of-classroom opportunities on campus and throughout Washington, DC. Our student life traditions will help you find the strength and spirit of GW. They unite us in times of celebration, adversity, reflection, happiness, and achievement. These traditions will infuse your GW experience commencing with Colonial Inauguration—aptly named for your GW beginning.  

Engagement in GW life is about getting full value during your undergraduate years. It encompasses athletics, student organizations, concerts, community service, and Greek life as well as opportunities to get to know faculty and administrators on a personal level. It also includes participating in quality recreational and wellness programs; residential living and learning programs; career networking opportunities; and alumni social get-togethers as you start college!

When student life combines with your academic pursuits, you will find a synergy that leads to a meaningful and rewarding experience. Soon you will discover something even better—new face-to-face relationships between you and your 2,350 new classmates from across the nation and around the world, as well as with our community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni. That is the “Total GW” you will come to know, of which you are now a part, so welcome and congratulations again on your acceptance to GW.

You’re going to love it here!

Sincerely,

Robert A. Chernak

Senior Vice President for Student and Academic Support Services