Hop-In Summer Program

Hop-In is a 5-week summer program that allows a cohort of entering first-generation and limited-income/pell-eligible (FLI) students to build community & experience academic and social life at Johns Hopkins University prior to beginning their fall semester. This program offers enrichment opportunities for students to develop professionally and personally as leaders at Hopkins. All incoming participants will have access to an upper-class peer mentor, exposure to various academic support resources and opportunities to interact with faculty.

Mission

The Hop-In Summer Program seeks to cultivate an affirming and supportive community for FLI students by promoting a holistic and personalized approach to success at Johns Hopkins University and beyond.

Program Overview

Program Dates

Saturday, June 29th, 2024 to Friday, August 2nd, 2024

Admission and Application Process

Hop-In is a 5-week intensive summer experience for incoming students who have been identified by the university as both First Generation and Limited Income. Our selection process involves a careful review of each candidate’s college application materials. Based on this information, we identify candidates who would be the best fit for the program and extend invitations to those individuals. We believe that this approach allows us to assemble a divers and talented group of participants who can contribute to a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Program Features

Housing

Hop-In students will live in one of the campus residence halls, which is a short walk to the dining hall, academic buildings, and the rec center. Undergraduate residence halls are fully air-conditioned and feature study and social lounges, laundry facilities, vending machines, and high-speed internet access. Private or shared rooms and bathrooms are available. The residence hall is fully secured by 24-hour campus security and is only accessible with campus ID.

Dining

Meal plans include three meals per day Monday through Sunday, in Hopkins Cafe. Campus dining features a wide selection of dietary choices, including vegetarian, gluten-free and kosher options, and a variety of cafes and restaurants throughout campus.

Courses and Seminar

Our program is designed to empower students with essential skills and knowledge to thrive both academically and financially. At Hop-In, we offer a comprehensive curriculum consisting of three credit-bearing courses tailored to the specific needs of students admitted to the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences and the Whiting School of Engineering. Additionally, all students participate in a dedicated Financial Wellness Seminar aimed at equipping them with the tools and resources necessary to navigate personal finances effectively.

Extracurricular and Social Activities

Outside of the academic day, Hop-In participants enjoy evening and weekend social activities and trips. Weekend excursions have previously included: Hershey Park, Baltimore Inner Harbor, Genesse Valley and Washington D.C. Evening activities are typically planned and facilitated by peer leaders with goal of fostering community and comradery amongst the cohort. On campus activities include karaoke, trivia, field day, and many other indoor and outdoor games and events.

At the heart of the Hop-In Program lies a commitment to student success through mentorship. As participants embark on their journey through the five-week program and throughout the academic year, they are paired with dedicated Hop-In Peer Leaders who serve as invaluable guides during their transition into their first year of college. These peer leaders, themselves experiences students, offer personalized supports, insight, and encouragement, fostering a sense of community and belonging within the program.

Hop-In cohort group picture in front of Gilman hall. All students are wearing matching light blue t-shirts

What’s After Hop-In?

Following the completion of the program, students will continue on in the Success Coaching in Academic Advising (SCAA) program and can also join other programs for FLI students, such as JUMP, Kessler Scholars, and more. Via the FLI Network, Hop-In students gain access to opportunities exclusive to FLI students, included but not limited to:

  • Community-building events (i.e, National First-Generation College Student Day, FLI Graduation Celebration Day)
  • Summer experience funding
  • Professional development (i.e., networking opportunities, skills-building workshops, etc.)
  • Financial literacy workshops
  • And, more

Frequently Asked Questions

You can learn more about the Hop-In Program by viewing answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Is there anything I can do or submit to get an invitation?

No. Students, teachers nor counselors can request or submit any material to apply for the program.

How much does it cost to attend the program?

The program is free of charge for participants.

Why should I join this program and what should I expect?

You should expect to meet some of the people you’ll meet throughout your time at Hopkins. You’ll get familiar moving around the Homewood Campus and navigating the shuttles that connect to other parts of Hopkins and Baltimore. In academic terms, you’ll engage in coursework that offers an onramp to student life and specifically to your first-year at Hopkins.

Each summer, the Hop-In Program invites 40 incoming first-year students.

Will I be able to meet current Hopkins students?

Yes! Eight current Hop-In students will serve as Peer Leaders. These student leaders will provide social, academic, and procedural guidance support throughout the summer and throughout your first year at Hopkins.

Is there any funding available to support pre-arrival expenses?

Yes! A stipend will be available for those who live outside of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. Should you need financial support, please contact us at [email protected].

Is there a virtual component to this program?

No. The summer program is an in-person residential experience.

If you still have questions, please feel free to contact [email protected].