At Hopkins and many other colleges, the supplemental essay is an opportunity beyond the main application to share a little more about yourself. Every school’s supplemental essay is a little different, and some don’t require one at all.
As we celebrate our university’s sesquicentennial, this year’s prompt is all about that pivotal first step that leads to discovery.
2025–2026 Hopkins Supplemental Essay Prompt
Over the past 150 years, every monumental discovery at Hopkins has started with a first step: The first draft by a Pulitzer Prize-winning author. A prototype that led to a life-changing medical invention. The first pitch that launched a new startup venture. As we commemorate the university’s sesquicentennial—150 years since its founding—we continue to celebrate first steps just as much as final achievements. Tell us about an important first in your life—big or small—that has shaped you. (350-word limit)
Digging Into the Prompt
Think of this prompt as a celebration of beginnings, discovery, and the “a-ha” moments that make life exciting. It’s less about a challenge you faced, and more about the genuine spark that got you started: an idea, new interest, or a personal moment that hooked you.
This focus reflects qualities we value as an institution: innovation, curiosity, initiative, adaptability, discovery, and openness to new experiences. We’re looking for students who embody these qualities and want to add their own voice and perspective to the Hopkins community.
Why the Supplemental Essay Matters
This is your chance to share in your own words something important to you—whether it’s a big or small milestone—and to show us how you would enrich our academic or social community. This essay helps us better understand what excites you or how you could contribute to the spirit of exploration here at Hopkins.
We hope you’ll use this opportunity to share something about yourself that we might not see in the rest of your application or elaborate on something that has been really important to you. Think of this essay as a personal conversation where you can go deeper into your story and connect with us directly.
Crafting Your Story
Choose a story that feels meaningful to you. “Firsts” can happen anywhere—from your classroom and community to your after-school job. Don’t worry if it’s something lots of students experience (like joining a club or trying a sport); what matters is how it impacted you and that you tell the story from your perspective.
Ask yourself:
- What insight or perspective did this moment give me?
- How does it connect to my values and the way I see the world now?
- What does it reveal about my ability to get inspired and take action?
What Are We Looking For
Your essay is a window into:
- What excites you
- Your ability to be inspired
- How you act on your interests
- Your willingness to try something in a different way
- How you explore your curiosities
- The perspectives you’ll bring to our campus
Writing and Revising
Balance sharing your story with reflecting on the person you are today. Use your natural voice, and don’t be afraid to show us your enthusiasm and personality! Seek feedback from people you trust and revise thoughtfully.
Putting It All Together
Consider this essay as a journey of self-reflection. We want to know what awakens your curiosity, moves you to ask questions, and inspires you to try something new—no matter the outcome.
If you’re looking for a starting point or support, check out our resources:
- Virtual Application Workshops: An admissions counselor will lead exercises to help you tell your most authentic story in your application.
- Essays That Worked: Read through personal statements from admitted Hopkins students and admissions committee feedback on what made them effective.
Every story begins with a question, an idea, or a first step. We can’t wait to learn about yours!
