Student Profile
Desiree
- Class: Alum
- Major: International Relations
- Gender: F
- High School: Marlborough School, Los Angeles, CA
- Transfer Student: N
Big Picture
You get respect for having attended Hopkins. I chose it because it was a relatively small self-contained liberal arts school with the major city amenities and internship opportunities of Washington DC nearby. The environment promoted an informal and friendly atmosphere among professors and classmates. My most memorable experiences were with the friends I made in my freshman dorm. I remember there were always parties, social events and opportunities do those silly and crazy things that you only really do in college.
Academic Life
Some of my favorite classes were in international politics and taught by SAIS professors visiting the undergrad campus. The level of energy and impressive caliber of the international relations department as well as its recognition around the world were major factors in my choosing it as a major in my junior year. Education at JHU is geared towards finding what interests you. For the students who really want to find that passion, the opportunities are there.
Student Body
When I was at JHU, homosexuals and African Americans seemed to me to be marginalized. But I have no idea if that's the case today. Asian Americans seemed to be very visible. Generally speaking, it was a very conservative campus. There was an abundance of pearls, polo shirts and j. crew but among various groupings, there was still quite a bit of cross over just because the school was so small. I doubt there would such mixing in a large university, such as Columbia, Harvard or Berkeley, for example. Students mostly ate with their housemates as the freshman housing system really promotes comraderie. Students don't really talk about how much they will earn one day. Most are focused on their classes and interestes, and assume jobs and earning potential will fall into place.
The Best Things
Freshman friends and orientation
The Worst Things
Freshman cafeteria food
