In the past few years, I’ve spent countless hours on the MARC train, traveling from Baltimore to Washington, DC. and vice versa. Hopkins’ proximity to DC has been a core part of my undergraduate experience. My friends and I have gone to numerous concerts—Burna Boy, Snoh Aalegra, and Brent Faiyaz to name a few—in DC. Exploring the wider DMV (DC, Maryland, and Virginia) region was a priority for me. For students interested in politics and government, the DC connection is even more beneficial. The Hopkins International Studies Department hosts trips to the Bloomberg Center (expenses paid), allowing students to explore post-graduate options in the DC area, including opportunities at Hopkins’ Carey Business School and the Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).
As a student in the combined BA/MA program with SAIS, I knew my senior year and the year after would involve relocating to DC, so it was great to have some experience in the city beforehand. I remember visiting the newly built Bloomberg Center with other BA/MA students this past spring. It was incredible to hear how professors bring real-world experience from organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, and U.S. State Department. The building is located next to the Canadian Embassy and offers a great view of the Capitol, making me feel like I’m truly in the heart of a politically vibrant city. The only caveat is the air conditioner in the building is often blasting, so you’ll typically find me sitting on the patio doing homework or getting some sunlight.
I often get texts from friends who are in DC, and we’re able to connect for dinner. It’s easy to jump between the two cities, and I feel like I get the best of both worlds. I am slowly curating a “DC Spots” list of all my favorite restaurants and attractions. Here are some of my favorites:
- Georgetown Flea Market
- Eastern Market
- Sankofa Video Books & Cafe
- Maman Cafe
- Chaplin’s Ramen
- Broccoli City Festival
But don’t get me wrong—Baltimore is still home base. I’ve gone back for senior-year events, birthday parties, and I attended the fall concert, where one of my favorite artists, Bryson Tiller, performed! At the same time, I’ve embraced the SAIS community. I joined the SAIS Technology Club where I serve as co-director of outreach and partnerships. Cookie Hour is my favorite SAIS tradition where every week students meet near our version of Homewood campus’ “The Beach” for free cookies and conversation. It’s a great way to connect with people I haven’t seen in a while and, of course, who could resist free treats?
Ties between Baltimore and DC run strong, and it’s easy to explore the unique opportunities in each city. In fact, one of my professors from last semester, who taught a policy design course, lived in DC and commuted to Baltimore for work—a common story for many who work in the DC area. With graduation coming up, I’m already looking forward to walking with my class in the spring, knowing that I’ve fully embraced everything available at Hopkins and in DC.
