Gather your high-school transcript, resume (job experience), letters of recommendation, your completed Johns Hopkins undergraduate application and any information you have about your potential major. Make sure you understand the essay prompt. The last thing you want to do is ignore the prompt and write something different. If you don't understand the essay prompt or need clarification, e-mail the admissions office at [email protected]
Review your materials and make a list of your most important high school academic accomplishments. If you are struggling to think of unique accomplishments, consult your letters of recommendation for information on which of your academic achievements your teachers most valued. Mention your GPA and SAT scores if they are exceptional. If not, don't mention them but highlight other strengths. Don't be modest in your write up; after all, you are selling yourself to this prestigious university.
Review your past jobs and personal accomplishments. Decide which of those accomplishments might make you stand out among hundreds of other applicants. Consider things such as unique volunteer positions and study abroad experiences. List your personal experiences and job accomplishments.
Research your program of interest at Johns Hopkins University and list the aspects that interest you most about this major. Consider factors such as coursework, professor background, research opportunities, class size and future career goals. You sell yourself to the admissions committee, in part, by portraying your knowledge about the department.
Write your introduction. Begin with a compelling opening paragraph that will catch the eye of your audience. You may start with a personal vignette, a question of interest or a unique academic achievement. Remember, the admissions committee will be sifting through hundreds of applications. Don't be afraid to express your creativity or open with a philosophical question. Make yourself stand out.
Delve into your academic and personal background, citing your most important accomplishments and difficult challenges. Refer to your handy lists. You may also want to build your essay around a theme or idea to give it order.
Explain why this program at Johns Hopkins is right for you. Remember, you are selling yourself to the university. Remind the reader in your concluding paragraph why you specifically desire the undergraduate program at Johns Hopkins.