I was in the Clemson University Ph.D. program, and I liked it a lot except that no one seemed to be passionate about economics. I tried to get a readings group together, but no one wanted to. Then I ran into a bunch of Mason students just by accident. I've been in three readings groups already. It seems like a distraction at first, but then it seems to help in the end.
People just like to learn about economics here.
That's why I love it. I work at the Bureau of Labor Statistics and I was interested in continuing my education. I looked very carefully at all of the programs in economics in the Washington, DC area. By far, George Mason has the best price and the best teaching. I do not understand why people choose other universities.