“I ended up getting involved in my very first semester,” said George Mason alum Justin Hagen, reflecting on the experience that would shape his academic and professional journey.
An electrical engineering major, Hagen quickly stood out in the classroom. After demonstrating curiosity and strong performance in a physics course, he was invited to join a lab at George Mason’s Quantum Science and Engineering Center (QSEC). There, he moved well beyond the textbook, building an inert-atmosphere glove box for studying sensitive materials and developing a microscope system for photonics research—hands-on projects rarely given to first-year students.
That early immersion in research set the foundation for a fast-tracked academic experience. Hagen paired his lab work with George Mason’s Bachelor’s–Accelerated Master’s (BAM) program in electrical engineering, which allows high-achieving students to begin graduate coursework while completing their undergraduate degree. Entering George Mason with significant AP credits and a goal to graduate in three years, Hagen saw BAM as a natural fit. By substituting graduate courses for technical electives, he was able to make meaningful progress toward his master’s degree while completing his bachelor’s on an accelerated timeline.
“I do like the approach that Mason takes to the BAM program,” he said. “Getting to interface with some of my professors in a grad-level space and then also participating in graduate seminars has been very informative to me.” Exposure to advanced coursework and research discussions helped him explore new areas of interest and refine his long-term goals.
Hagen’s early lab experience opened doors beyond campus. After his first year, he secured a position with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) through its Pathways Internship Program, in part due to his background in practical research. At NRL, Hagen built on the skills he developed at George Mason, working on instrumentation and circuit design before progressing into signal processing projects. The role grew alongside his expertise, eventually leading to a full-time position.
Hagen’s success reflects the advantage of George Mason’s location in Northern Virginia. “I was able to take advantage of so many opportunities just because of where Mason’s located,” Hagen said, noting that he was able to work in Washington, D.C., while completing his degree.
Now continuing his graduate education while working full time, Hagen exemplifies what’s possible for ambitious students who take initiative early. His journey highlights the value of combining hands-on research, academic acceleration, and strategic location, key elements that define the George Mason experience.
For students considering the BAM pathway in electrical engineering, Hagen’s story offers a clear takeaway: start early, stay curious, and make the most of every opportunity.