<p>If you plan on working in the DC area I think you are fine going with GMU especially since you love the school.</p>
<p>On the other hand:</p>
<p>It’s time to develop some independence so that you aren’t terrified of being 4 1/2 hours from home!</p>
<p>VT admits many students from Northern Virginia so many of your in-class peers will have the same background (suburban, diverse, etc). There will also be students from other states (the horror!) and ones from rural environments. In other words, a diversity of views, backgrounds, motivations etc. Embrace change for the opportunity it provides you to learn and expand your horizons. {laying it on a bit thick there I know}.</p>