Welcome to the Nest, Blue Jays!
We can’t wait for you to join us at Hopkins. The next four years will be full of exploration, self-discovery and growth. You are stepping into Baltimore, a city that may seem unfamiliar to many of you. You are meeting new people, coming from all around the world. You are adapting to more independence and freedom than ever before.
Our first year at Hopkins feels like yesterday, and, although time passes fast, we get the chance to reflect on our beginnings every year with The Cover Letter. And, of course, we share them with you, hoping to serve as a friendly guide as you embark on your very own journey. Here at The Johns Hopkins News-Letter, the University's only financially independent newspaper, we have compiled pieces of unfiltered advice and reflections to accompany your new beginning. From local Baltimore favorite eats and best study spaces on or off-campus, to honest reflections on uncertainty, changing directions and finding your place, we hope these stories will empower you to be yourself and be free as you transition into college.
You might be thinking about all the new things you’ll experience here. And yes, you will get to experience them, one by one! You’ll take many interesting courses (and probably a few less exciting ones too). You’ll join new clubs and discover hobbies that you never thought you would try. You’ll curate your own living space and get used to the dining hall food rotations. You’ll explore new neighborhoods in the city and the suburbs surrounding it, coming to appreciate Baltimore in ways you didn’t expect. You’ll grow into the best version of yourself. You’ll feel at home.
Over time, you might feel lost or unsure, and that’s completely okay! You have all the time in the world to figure things out, and The Cover Letter is here to help provide support, along with many other insights learned from Hopkins that will support your journey. And in the blink of an eye, you will be standing among your peers at commencement, looking back at how much you’ve grown. For now, though, let’s take things slow and delve into thoughtful articles submitted by editors and writers at The News-Letter.
We want to extend our best wishes for your journey at Hopkins. Don’t forget that you are not alone, and feel free to reach out to any of us whenever you need support, want to potentially publish something yourself or just to connect with us!
Best wishes,
Magazine Editors, 2026–27
Linda Huang and Buse Koldas