GMU vs GWU Forum

[nmic]

Hi everyone,

I'm trying to make a decision between GW and George Mason. I have ties to the DC area and plan on living and working here. My goal is to work in the public or non-profit sector. Given my previous work experience, I am leaning towards public procurement and government contracts. I already live here so I don't need to move, and I can cover living expenses, books, etc. from my own savings and SO's income. I will try to pay some of the tuition from these sources, but most likely will have to take out loans too. I have received scholarships without stips from both schools so the yearly tuition would be 22k for GW (for the 2014-2015 year) and 15k for Mason (tuition freeze until 2017). LSAT is 165 and will not be retaking.

Thanks!

[deuceindc]

Doesn't look like you're accounting for loan interest or tuition increases, so those estimates aren't _really_ accurate - GWU will be closer to 80k when the dust settles.

However, 80k won't ruin you. Given the difference in employment, I'd take GWU.

[Winston1984]

Why won't you retake?

[nmic]

Why won't you retake?

I've considered it, but ultimately I cannot move from this area so the best school I could get into would be GULC. And I have decided not to take any more time off to study for the LSAT just to get into this school. I have made this decision with open eyes and now I want to make sure I chose the best option between the above mentioned. Given my interests, I feel like I am in a good place. Also, English is my second language so I'm actually very proud of my score.

[jasper09]

GW. They have a Government Contracts program and Ralph Nash, one of the professors there, LITERALLY wrote the book on government contracts (google Nash & Cibinic reports), as well as was instrumental in founding the program. But given that this is your area of interest, you probably already knew that...and I think we probably have similar work experience... but anyhow, GW. I know far more government procurement/contracts attorneys that went to GW than GMU.

That said, it's also incredibly difficult to get a govt contracts attorney job right now, but I don't know that that would apply as much in your case if you have the job I'm thinking of.

Also, are you looking at full-time or part-time? If part-time, but look into whatever tuition assistance you may be eligible for. Some agencies will pay a substantial amount toward a part-time JD.

[Nova]

GW's significantly better job prospects are def worth the additional 20k in your situation IMO.


Retake >>>> GW >>>>>> GM