One of the most meaningful parts of my experience at Hopkins has been the opportunity to learn from professors who are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in their students. Looking back, I realize that the classes I remember most are not just defined by the material, but by the people who taught them and the environments they created.
Organic Chemistry I, taught by Professor Christopher Falzone, and Organic Chemistry II, taught by Professor Olivier Nsengiyumva, stand out as two of the most impactful courses I have taken. Like many students, I went into these classes expecting them to be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. Instead, I found myself genuinely enjoying the content. Both professors have a way of presenting complex mechanisms in a visual and intuitive manner that makes the material click. Rather than memorizing reactions, I felt like I was truly understanding how and why they worked. What made these experiences even more meaningful was the ability to connect with both professors outside of class. Beyond the classroom, I have had the chance to connect with them around campus, and I even play pickleball with Professor Nsengiyumva, which is something I will truly miss.
Another professor who has had a major impact on my time at Hopkins is Professor Peter Beilenson. I first took his course in Policy, Politics and Public Health and later had the privilege of working with him as a teaching assistant (TA). His classes are incredibly engaging and discussion-driven, and he has a unique ability to connect course concepts to real-world issues in a way that feels both relevant and thought-provoking. He brings an incredible depth of knowledge about both politics and public health, but what stands out most is how approachable and supportive he is. Being able to work alongside him as a TA gave me a new perspective on teaching and mentorship, and it is an experience I will carry with me moving forward.
One of the most surprising highlights of my coursework was Introduction to Fiction and Poetry I with Professor Jane Lewty. As someone who has primarily focused on STEM, I was unsure what to expect going into the class. However, it quickly became one of my favorites, and I credit that largely to Professor Lewty. She created an environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing ideas, and class discussions were consistently engaging and thoughtful. I found myself looking forward to reading and writing each week, which was not something I anticipated at the start. The class pushed me to think in new ways and appreciate perspectives that I had not previously considered, and it became a refreshing contrast to my more technical coursework.
I also want to recognize Professor Reid Mumford for his role in Physics Lab I and II. Lab courses can sometimes feel disjointed, but his were incredibly well organized and purposeful. Each experiment felt intentional, and there was a clear emphasis on understanding the underlying concepts rather than simply completing procedures. I have also really enjoyed the longer conversations we have had in his office, around campus or whenever he would stop by the lab room, which made the experience feel even more personal and engaging.
Outside of the classroom, my experience at Hopkins has been shaped just as much by the communities and traditions that bring students together. Being a member of the club volleyball team has been one of the most defining parts of my college experience. Over the past four years, I have had the opportunity to serve in various leadership positions, including president, vice president and captain, and each role has allowed me to grow as both a leader and a teammate. Some of my favorite memories come from traveling across the country to compete at Nationals and winning the East Coast Championship my sophomore year. At the same time, it is often the smaller moments that stand out the most, like practices, team mixers and simply spending time together.
Beyond organized activities, some of my favorite experiences have come from everyday moments on campus. Playing spikeball or grass volleyball with friends on sunny afternoons, taking a break from studying to spend time outside and enjoying the energy of campus life have all been important parts of maintaining balance. With the demands of academics and research, those moments of connection and relaxation have been incredibly meaningful. I have also really enjoyed simple traditions with friends, like getting together and going to Ekiben each Halloween, which became something we looked forward to every year.
There are also a few campus traditions that I have especially enjoyed each year. The Lighting of the Quads during the winter holiday season is one of my favorites. It is a great way to celebrate the end of the fall semester, with music, activities and a sense of excitement across campus. Similarly, Spring Fair is always something I look forward to. It brings everyone together through food, games and events, and it is a perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and take a break before the end of the academic year.
Overall, my time at Hopkins has been defined by a combination of challenging academics, supportive mentors and meaningful experiences outside the classroom. The professors I have learned from and the communities I have been a part of have shaped not only my education, but also the way I approach learning, leadership and connection. These are the experiences I will carry with me long after I leave campus.
Justin LeBlanc is a senior graduating with a degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology and Public Health Studies from Carlsbad, Calif.
