I've always dreamed about Johns Hopkins for my path in medicine. I'd like to hear from current or past students about their experiences. How are the programs? The campus life? Housing? Any info would really help my decision process.
Absolutely, happy to provide some insight into Johns Hopkins University, although keep in mind that student experiences can vary greatly.
When it comes to academics, particularly for pre-medicine and biomedical sciences students, Johns Hopkins is in a class of its own. The university is lauded for its strong programs in STEM, and research opportunities are abundant. You'll be challenged in your courses, but you'll also be in an environment that encourages collaboration and intellectual curiosity.
Outside of academics, though, campus life is what you make of it. There are plenty of clubs and groups to join, covering everything from athletics and recreational activities to cultural and professional organizations. It's a great way to find a community and make the campus feel smaller. Not to mention, intramural sports are pretty popular - the quidditch team is always getting rave mentions!
As for housing, all first-year students live on the university's Homewood Campus, which gives you a strong sense of community right away. After your first year, you have the option to live off-campus, but many students choose to stay on campus because of its convenience.
One aspect of Hopkins that often gets overlooked is its location in Baltimore. There's a vibrant arts scene, delicious food (crab cakes are a must-try), and plenty of opportunities to volunteer and engage with the local community. It's also worth noting that, like all cities, there are areas with higher crime rates, but the school offers various safety programs and resources.
One thing to remember when considering Johns Hopkins is that it does have a reputation for being competitive, especially within pre-med tracks. Many students thrive in this environment, but it's worth considering if that's an atmosphere you would enjoy.
Again, experiences can vary greatly from student to student, but this should give you a general sense of what life at Hopkins might be like.
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