Profile 8 of the Admissions Committee, and here we introduce you to our expert in International Admissions and our office newlywed, Rachel Cowan Jacobs...
Name: Rachel Cowan Jacobs - the Jacobs part is new because I just got married.
Territory: AL, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, USVI and every country outside of the USA.
Education (College - Major / Minor): Columbia University, New York, NY - American History major with a focus on American race relations. M.Ed. in Counselor Education from University of Virginia.
Johns Hopkins Start Date: September 2003
Years in Admissions: This is my 10th year in admissions. Before joining Hopkins, I worked in undergraduate and MBA admissions in Indiana, Germany, and North Carolina.
Why did you choose to enter the profession of College Admissions?: I became fascinated in admissions while going through the college application process as a 12th grader. During interviews, I’d wonder about the admissions officer’s job instead of being focused on my own answers to questions.
Favorite Animal?: DOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why did you choose to work for Johns Hopkins?: Growing up in Washington, D.C., I’d always known of the strength of the university. When a position became available at Hopkins, I jumped at the chance to work for such a wonderful institution because I knew I’d be working with some of the best high school students across the world.
What do you enjoy most about your job?: I love the interaction with students who are interested and serious about education and learning. My territory allows me to meet people from all over the world, learn about their educational systems and cultures and expand my own horizons. This is an educational experience for me with endless learning opportunities.
How do you approach reading an application?: I read in the same order as Amy Brokl: Part I, Part II, essays, counselor letter, transcript, teacher letter. By the time I get to the transcript, I can usually tell what kind of student the applicant is. Nine times out of ten, my hunch is correct.
When not reading applications, what do you do for fun?: My dog provides endless entertainment and I love spending time with her. I also enjoy sports, yoga, baking, being outside, and traveling.
What are your Admissions pet peeves? (What drives you crazy?): It drives me crazy when applicants forget that the JHU essay question asks about an adventure they’d plan, not how to spend $10 in a day. The question is not about how to spend a free day or how to get through 24 hours with only $10. The question is about going on an adventure.
Favorite College Essay?: My favorite essays are the ones that show creativity and imagination and might be more than words on a piece of paper.
What three things would you want with you if you were stranded on a deserted island?: My dog, my husband, and a lot of water.
Just two more profiles left. Check back next week for our final Admissions Committee introductions...
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