Choosing the Right Professor at George Washington University: Insights from a Former Student

When selecting courses at George Washington University (GWU), the choice of professors can significantly impact your educational experience. To offer some guidance, I draw from personal experience and insights into the value of both renowned scholars and dedicated lecturers.

Renowned ScholarsRobert McRuer and David Mitchell

Two professors at GWU who are highly recommended are Robert McRuer and David Mitchell, both renowned in their field of disability studies. Specializing in the intersection of queer identity and crip identity, they not only bring deep academic knowledge but also exceptional teaching skills. Their ability to accommodate students with disabilities, combined with their understanding and empathy, makes them stand out among GWU faculty.

Robert McRuer and David Mitchell bring a wealth of knowledge to their teaching, making complex theoretical and practical concepts accessible to students. They are not just professors but also role models for students with disabilities, demonstrating how to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

American History Lectures: Professor Merriman's Impact

Another professor to consider is Professor Merriman, whose lectures on American Diplomatic History are highly recommended. He was a master storyteller, bringing history to life with his passion and expertise. His vibrant personality and emotional engagement during lectures make the subject matter memorable and engaging.

Professor Merriman's lectures were not just about facts and dates. He emphasized the triumphs and defeats, the needs and aspirations of our nation, and the leading personalities and failures. At certain poignant points, he would even weep, adding a human touch to the historical narrative. His ability to connect with the students and his deep understanding of the material made his lectures both compelling and insightful.

Additional Tips for Selecting Professors and Courses

If you are unsure which professor to choose, especially without knowing your intended major, there are several strategies you can employ to make a more informed decision:

Speak to Recent Alumni: These individuals can provide valuable insights into the professors and the courses they took. Alumni often have a deeper understanding of the university's curriculum and can offer personal recommendations based on their experiences. Use Online Tools: Websites dedicated to finding and rating professors and campuses can be a good starting point. While these platforms may have biases, they still offer a range of perspectives and reviews that can help guide your decision. Meet with Professors: When possible, try to meet with professors in person to gauge their personalities and teaching styles. Are they friendly? Do they seem interested in their students? Are they open to talking about their teaching methods? These factors can give you a better idea of whether they will be a good fit for you. Email Professors: If you can't meet them in person, consider reaching out to potential professors through email. This can help you get a sense of their availability and their interest in their students. A responsive professor is often a good sign. Attend the First Class: Most universities allow you to change courses during the first week of the semester. Attend the first class of the course you are considering to see if it aligns with your expectations. If you feel it’s not a good fit, you can always switch to a different course.

GWU is a large university with a diverse range of courses and professors. While finding the perfect professor is important, it’s equally crucial to consider the course itself and the opportunities for study groups and independent learning. Many master's level courses rely on PowerPoint slides, but the rest of the learning can be done through books, libraries, and online resources.

Remember, you have around a week to change a course, so don't hesitate to make a switch if you aren't satisfied. Opportunely, you can use this time to audit a course and adjust your decision based on your first impressions.

Ultimately, the key to a successful academic journey is to be proactive and informed. By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of finding the best professors and courses to suit your needs and enrich your educational experience at GWU.

Hope this helps. Good luck!