When you picture your college journey, do you imagine a faraway campus in a brand-new city? While that path works for some, there’s another road that’s just as powerful—choosing to attend college close to home.
At Hopkins, students from Baltimore and DC don’t have to go far to go far. With the resources of the nation’s #1 research university at their fingertips, staying local becomes a powerful launchpad for big dreams for our DMV residents.
Why Stay Local?
1. Stronger Community Ties
Choosing a college near home lets you stay connected to the people, places, and communities that have shaped you. That continuity can make the transition to college smoother—and more meaningful. Navigating a new roommate relationship or starting college courses can feel less overwhelming when you’re already familiar with the environment. And having the comfort of family—or even a beloved pet—just a short drive away can make a big difference.
2. Access to Local Networks
Being close to home doesn’t mean limiting your opportunities. In fact, it can open doors. You’re already familiar with the city’s organizations, professionals, and culture. College becomes a time to build on those connections and start giving back. Volunteering or working in your own community often carries a special significance—like helping to organize a neighborhood event or mentoring younger students in your area.
3. A New Lens on a Familiar Place
Studying close to home allows you to see your city through new eyes—exploring it from the perspective of a college student, researcher, leader, or changemaker. Maybe you grew up visiting local museums or cheering on the Orioles and Ravens, but now you’re attending pop-up concerts, diving into community projects, or showing off your city to new friends from around the world. That shift can spark a deeper pride in where you’re from—and who you’re becoming.
Supporting All Paths
We know that staying close to home isn’t the right choice for everyone. Some students come to Hopkins from across the country or across the globe—and thrive by stepping into something entirely new. That journey can be transformative, too. But for students from Baltimore and the DMV, it’s important to know: There’s power in building on what you already know, in a place that already believes in your potential.
Explore What’s Possible at Hopkins
We believe in the power of local students, and we’re excited to help you explore what’s possible right here in Baltimore. That’s why we’re hosting the Excel Youth Conference, a special event for high school students and families in Baltimore and Washington, DC. It’s a day designed to connect you with college resources, inspire your academic journey, and introduce you to the kind of community you can find at Hopkins and beyond.
If you’ve ever thought college had to mean leaving everything behind, we invite you to reconsider. Sometimes, the best place to grow is the place that already knows your roots.
