The Classroom

Students generally enjoy small class sizes of twenty-six or less with additional mentors added when classes exceed 15 students. Seating is most often arranged around a large table or in a U-shaped formation so that students learn from their fellow students as well as their mentor.

The glaze of inattentiveness and boredom that plagues modern classrooms is rarely seen at GWU. Faculty and students alike realize that their learning will be enhanced if every member of the class is mentally and emotionally engaged.

Students study not only for themselves, but with their classmates in mind. They view themselves as a community of scholars who together create a collective knowledge greater than their own.

Classes have a high energy as students make pointed, relevant comments that are directed to the group. Everyone listens closely to the comments of others, often making a counter-argument, and jotting down either the main idea of the comment or a related thought or epiphany they experienced as a result.

Students frequently approach the board and diagram an idea for the class while students turn pages of their books looking for a quotation that is relevant to the topic at hand. It is not uncommon for the mentor to break off lecturing or interrupt class discussion to move into an impromptu simulation—to test an idea, practice a concept or to create a mood designed to facilitate understanding.

Like students anywhere, GWU students may experience bouts of dissatisfaction. They get homesick, tire of studying, or some may feel discouraged at their seemingly slow progress and question whether or not they have what it takes to become a statesman. This is the time when meeting with mentors brings encouragement and new assignments that are designed to help during these difficult times.

Students also seek encouragement and direction outside of the college from parents, religious leaders and fellow students. Drawing from this environment, students overcome dissatisfaction and get back to work, finding joy in their renewal.

Student Interaction | Think for Yourself | Everyone has Genius