Hopkins Insider

The 1st Annual Bloggies - Nominations Needed

At 5:30 a.m. PT yesterday, from Hollywood, CA, the nominations for the 81st annual Academy Awards were revealed. As you will read or hear from now until the winners are announced next month, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" leads with 13 nominations, "Slumdog Millionaire" is in second with 10 nominations, power-couple Brangelina (Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie) both received acting nods, and as expected Heath Ledger received a posthmous nomination for his tremendous work as the Joker on "The Dark Knight."

Anyone who knows me or has been following this blog for more than a year, knows that I am an Oscar-fanatic, an Oscar-historian, an Oscar-gambler, and an Oscar-snob. (Did I miss anything?) Every year when I get my new day planner and I am entering my friends and family birth dates, anniversaries, and other important events, I am sure to include Oscar Night (2.22.09) and Nomination Day (1.22.09) on that calendar. Like my television watching, it is an addiction and illness ... an no I won't be seeking professional help.

In the spirit of Oscar Season, I came up with a really exciting idea ...

THE FIRST ANNUAL HOPKINS INTERACTIVE
BLOGGIE AWARDS

I am a huge fan of any awards season, and why not bring that to the world of Hopkins Interactive. In 2008 we published hundreds of new blog entries, and now it is time to honor the best. On February 23rd, one day after the Oscars are handed out, I will post links to the winning blog entries of our 15 categories (see below).

Between now and then, I NEED EVERYONE'S HELP. I am turning to the readers of the Hopkins Interactive blogs to provide me with nominations. Yes, I need your help in providing me with your nomination of the best bloggie performances 0f 2008 (the best blog entries posted between January 1 and December 31, 2008). Here is how the Nomination Process will work:

The Bloggies Nomination Process

Nomination Rules
- You can nominate only blog entries posted in the 2008 calendar year.
- You are nominating specific entries, not overall blogs.
- You can nominate as many blog entries as you want.
- Nominations should reflect specific categories, but you may also nominate just your favorite entries and the judges will apply them to categories.

How To Nominate
There are three ways you can nominate entries:

1. Post your nomination to this Hopkins Forums thread: CLICK HERE
2. Post your nomination in the Comments section of this blog entry.
3. Send your blog nominations in an e-mail to hopkins.interactive@jhu.edu.

With your nominations we request the following information:
* Title of the Blog entry (the specific entry title)
* Date the Blog entry was published
* Primary Name of the Blog the entry was published to.
* Author of the Blog entry.
* Direct Permalink to the Blog entry (optional).

Continue below for the 15 Bloggie categories and links to all the blogs so you can begin researching past blog entries for your nominations.

The Bloggie Categories

Best Blog - Awarded to the best blog entry overall in 2008.

Best Drama - Awarded to the most emotional / most inspiring / most reflective blog entry of 2008.

Best Comedy- Awarded to the best comedic or musical blog entry of 2008 (in other words ... the funniest!).

Best Ensemble - Awarded to the best blog entry of 2008 posted to a multi-authored shared student blog (see listings below).

Best Supporting Blog - Awarded to the best blog entry of 2008 posed to a University Blog (see listings below).

Best Screenplay - Awarded to the most well written blog entry of 2008.

Best Editing - Awarded to the best blog entry of 2008 that is approximately 150 words or less.

Best Cinematography - Awarded to the entry in 2008 that displays the best use of video content.

Best Art Direction - Awarded to the "best looking" blog entry of 2008 (i.e. displays the best use of pictures, font color, text size, etc.)

Best Set Direction - Awarded to the best Cribs blog entry of 2008.

Best Documentary - Awarded to the blog entry of 2008 that gives the best snapshot of student life at Johns Hopkins.

Best New Artist- Awarded to the best freshman blogger of 2008.

Best Foreign Entry - Awarded to the best blog entry of 2008 that best discusses studying abroad or travel.

Best Title - Awarded to the single blog entry of 2008 with the best title.

***Lifetime Achievement***- A special recognition award to the top blogger in the history of Hopkins Interactive.

Use the links below to do your research....

UNIVERSITY BLOGS

Hopkins Insider (the blog you are currently reading!) -- Provides a "behind the scenes" look at Admissions at Johns Hopkins University from Admissions_Daniel (ME!) himself.

Hopkins Interactive Guest Blog -- Offers guest blog entries written by current (and, sometimes, incoming) Hopkins students who do not blog regularly for Hopkins Interactive. Our Guest Blog provides a unique way to hear the stories of a myriad of Hopkins students, each quite different from one another.

Hopkins Interactive Video Blog -- From our bimonthly video show Hopkins Now!, to Cribs episodes (where we give you an exclusive tour of our on- and off-campus residences), to short videos about dining, athletics, the library and much more -- this is truly your inside "look" into Johns Hopkins.

The Blue Jay Buffet -- Our "random" topics blog offers entries from alumni, parents of Hopkins students, faculty and more, as well as monthly updates about campus events, Hopkins students and faculty in the news, and news-worthy Engineering items.

SHARED STUDENT BLOGS (multi-author)

2012: Hopkins Arts and Sciences Freshman Blog -- Living the freshman experience from the eyes of four girls studying in the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences.

2012: Hopkins Engineering Blog -- In contrast, this blog shows life as a freshman from the experiences of three guys pursuing Engineering.

Senior Blog: Class of 2009 -- Senior year of college comes faster than you think!  Four seniors share their experiences as they savor their last year at Hopkins and look forward to life in "the real world."

Roxi & Jessica: Caught in Between -- What are you when you're not a fresh freshman and not a seasoned senior?  A junior and a sophomore share everything about those two years in between.

INDIVIDUAL STUDENT BLOGS

Adventures at Hopkins(Esther) - A current senior International Studies major talks about internships, studying abroad (in Switzerland), performing arts, and her own exciting "adventures at Hopkins."

Julia's Journal(Julia) - Also a current senior, this Political Science major offers lots of advice to applying/incoming students, as well as her own experiences with internships/work, Model UN, Greek Life, and planning for the future.

Murphy's Law Gone Right(Jackie) - A junior majoring in Philosophy muses about friends, family, school, politics and more with a unique mix of profundity and wit.

Simply Serendipitous(Mandy) - A sophomore and newly-declared Public Health major discusses choosing a major, exploring Baltimore, taking advantage of time at home, and staying balanced and happy at Hopkins.

The Reel Life of Josh(Josh) - This sophomore shares his advice on picking the right school for you, ways to succeed and have fun at Hopkins, and a look at some of his own work as a Film and Media Studies major.

Verbal Snippets and Snapshots(Kate) - A junior Neuroscience major explores the arts and culture at Hopkins while finding time to enjoy Baltimore, study for classes, take part in research, and more.

Wish You Were Here(Lauren) - A sophomore English/Writing Seminars major discusses the balance between school and fun, taking Humanities classes, and often provides photographic proof of her active life at Hopkins.

ARCHIVED STUDENT BLOGS

2011: Hopkins Freshman Blog - The tales of four freshmen (who are now sophomores) as they progressed through their first years at Hopkins.

A Day in the Life (Laura) - Before she began writing for the Senior Blog, writing seminars senior Laura had her own blog.

Michelle's Musings (Michelle B.) - She graduated this past spring, but Michelle's blog was one of the first in Hopkins Interactive history.

My Life is My Personal Movie (Stefanie) - Stefanie has also moved on to the Senior Blog, but before that she wrote in-depth entries about her experiences at Hopkins.

Roxi Rules (Roxi) - Before she started sharing a blog with Jessica, Roxi wrote about her first two years at Hopkins and any reader will agree that "she rules."

The Castrovinci Chronicles (Phil) - Another spring 2008 graduate, Phil used his blog to detail his time as a Public Health student and fraternity brother.

And remember, here is how to nominate ...

How To Nominate
There are three ways you can nominate entries:

1. Post your nomination to this Hopkins Forums thread: CLICK HERE
1. Post your nomination in the Comments section of this blog entry.
2. Send your blog nominations in an e-mail to hopkins.interactive@jhu.edu.

With your nominations we request the following information:
* Title of the Blog entry (the specific entry title)
* Date the Blog entry was published
* Primary Name of the Blog the entry was published to.
* Author of the Blog entry.
* Direct Permalink to the Blog entry (optional). 

Speechless: Witness to History

I am pretty much speechless at this moment. That is really rare for me, especially when it pertains to politics or history. Having just watched the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, I returned to my desk and realized I was just witness to history.

In all of our lives there are those moments that we will remember vividly forever and ever. We remember where we were, who was with us, every detail that occurred, and even how our senses reacted on that day (sights, smells, sounds, etc.). For me, the events of my life that can be categorized like that are the Challenger explosion, Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, the Oklahoma City bombing, the start of the first Gulf War as seen on CNN, the Princess Diana tragedy, and every horrific moment of September 11, 2001. I can definitively state that January 20, 2009 now is added to that list.

Today I am proud to be an American. I haven't said that in a long time. I have hope and I have a renewed faith in our country today. I do not believe that President Obama has all the right answers, but having watched how the events have transpired these last few days and listened to the words of our new President, I am once again optimistic. For me the moment of President Obama's inaugural speech was:

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends -- hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world; duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

I believe again in my country. I believe again in the democratic process. I believe again in a commitment to global freedoms. I believe again in the American public. I believe again in the core values of our founding fathers. And I even believe again in our government. I just hope that this will all continue, and that this new age of RESPONSIBILITY is embraced by all and grows exponentially. 

I am a firm believer also in the truth that pictures represent thousands of words and emotions, so I share just a few that have impacted me today:

 

I am curious to hear from you all. What comments do you have to share on a historical day like today? 

Hello, I am Admissions Daniel and I am addicted to Television.

I hope you all enjoyed my friend and colleague Paul's Guest Author entry. It may not be directly linked to the goal of the Hopkins Insider blog -- a behind-the-scenes look at admissions at Johns Hopkins -- but during the stressful times of applying to college we all need a break. And that break continues now ...

See I am inflicted with the same illness that Paul has -- an overwhelmingly addiction to television. Nearly every afternoon you can find me in Paul's office discussing something that occurred last night on television or what we are looking forward to on tonight's TV line-up. We read the same TV-gossip blogs, my favorite being Watch with Kristin on E! Online whereas Paul prefer's The Ausiello Files on EW.com. When our colleagues walk by they just roll their eyes and move on because they are just casual TV watchers. They are not part of the small fraternity of severe TV addicts. Some have suggested we seek professional help, but does anyone have the phone number for a good TV therapist -- I heard Dr. Melfi from The Sopranos is retired.

So for the last few days I have been considering how to respond to Paul's post. I booted up my laptop, powered up my TiVos (yes like Paul I work with multiple DVRs), dusted off the abacus, located my past journals, and even went back to a blog entry I wrote back in October 2007 on a similar topic. After listing all the shows I am currently committed to watching, I began the endless process of organizing and categorizing. After 46 sleepless hours (just kidding), I think I have finalized my January 2009 Thesis on What Television Shows You All Should Be Watching. Enjoy, and please don't judge me.

MUST SEE TV - Shows I Must Watch Live
I attempted to put these in order, but honestly the order changes each day. Pretty much these --- shows are the best television has to offer currently.

(1) LOST - Greatest ... Show ... EVER. There is so much I could say, but those three words pretty much sum it up.

(2) 24 - Jack Bauer is finally back, and I am so excited. Yes, Day 6 was not the best and yes there are some past story lines that are ridiculous (i.e. Mountain Lion chasing Kim during Day 1), but this still is one of the most innovative TV shows ever.

(3) Friday Night Lights - Re-reading the entry I posted in October 2007 I have FNL listed as a show I might catch up on through DVDs. Well my Mom continued to pester me and over three days I watched every episode of seasons 1 & 2. No exaggeration ... this is the best family drama on television now and may be in the top 2 or 3 of all time (along with Family Ties.)

(4) Dexter- A serial killer to love. Season 2 struggled a bit, but adding Jimmy Smits for Season 3 was a perfect choice. Next up, Dexter as a Dad ... wow!

(5) Rescue Me- This show is what cable television was made for. Dennis Leary is a genius, and I guarantee when this show ends (which I hope is in a very very long time) it will go out with one of the most memorable endings ever. It is one of the only forms of entertainment that has ever dealt with post-September 11th issues in a respectful and realistic manner.

MUST TIVO TV - Shows That I Must Watch Within 48 Hours of Airing
Once again I am trying to keep these in a particular order, so the ones at top are the closest to move into the Must Watch TV category.

(6) House, MD - Hugh Laurie is amazing, especially since he is British!!! One thing I don't get, how can Doctors get some many things wrong before getting it right -- that scares me.

(7) Fringe- I never have been a huge fan of sci-fi TV shows (yes I have heard Battlestar Gallactica is a great show) and didn't really get the X-Files, but this new show has hooked me with great acting, an unusual central plot, and some of the best filming on network TV currently.

(8) Privileged - Laugh all you want ... this is the best show on the CW (yes it blows Gossip Girlaway) and JoAnna Garcia is amazing, and my newest crush!!!

(9) Entourage - I want to be Turtle, especially now that he is hooking up with Meadow Soprano (Jaime Lynn Sigler). A fast and fun 30 minutes, with one of the best characters on TV - Ari Gold.

(10) Life - In my opinion, the best procedural police/crime drama on TV currently. Charlie Crews is one of the most complex characters out there. Damian Lewis who plays Crews is an excellent actor ... if you don't agree just watch him in Band of Brothers.

(11) Numb3rs - What Fringecan do for science, this show does for math. Nerds are cool especially teamed with the FBI. Plus, I will watch any show with Peter MacNicol ... well except for Ally McBeal.

(12) Heroes - In Season 1 this was one of my top 5 shows ... but then a disjointed Season 2 came and the introduction of too many characters dropped it for me. I am still on board and hoping they get back to the original "Save the Cheerleader, Save the World" days.

(13) Chuck - Zachary Levi is just plain clever and funny ... Yvonne Strahovski is gorgeous (and what a name) ... and this is one show where the supporting cast carries a lot of the show.

   

TIVO FOLDER-ED SHOWS - Shows That I Record and Watch in Bunches
I already have 13 shows I watch weekly so this second tier of shows I may not watch when they actually air. I have "season passes" to all of them and typically ever month I will "catch up" by watching a mini-marathon of new episodes.

(14) 30 Rock - Tina Fey is a genius ... is there anything else to say.

(15) Law and Order: Special Victims Unit - Benson and Stabler have amazing chemistry ... and I love a show with Richard Belzer (I miss Homicide: Life on the Street).

(16) Flight of the Conchords - I am not sure what it is, but every time after 30 minutes my chest hurts and I have tears in my eyes. Unusual comedy.

(17) Little Britain USA- Another HBO comedy that leads me to laugh uncontrollably. YouTube search "Carol Beer" and watch all the clips ... you will thank me. "Computer says Nooooooo."

(18) Secret Diary of a Call Girl - I love British people ... I love shows with the main character as a narrator ... I love risky TV shows ... and oh yeah, Billie Piper is great too.

(19) The L Word - I know what many people think when a heterosexual male admits to watching this show. But honestly the character development over the seasons has been ground-breaking.

(20) Saturday Night Live- Obviously the election made SNL relevant again, but I watch for the Digital Shorts each week.

(21) Scrubs - One of the best comedies on TV -- thank you ABC for saving this show -- and another with a great main character narrator.

(22) My Name is Earl - A great premise ... good characters ... and The Crab Man.

(23) Law & Order - The original L&O still delivers occasionally. And if I don't like the new episode I can turn on pretty another cable network (TNT, USA, TBS, etc.) and see an old syndicated episode.

 

So you probably think I am done after listing 23 shows ... well if you think that you don't understand my addiction. There is more ... much more ... 

NEWLY CANCELED SHOWS THAT I WILL MISS
Sometimes I just don't understand TV executives. These shows get canceled while shows like Medium, The Ghost Whisperer, and Knight Rider are still on.

Prison Break- Just canceled this week. I knew it had to come to an end but I am going to miss Michael and Lincoln. I don't understand why Fox canceled it ... this is one of Stephen Kings's favorite shows. STEPHEN KING!!!

Dirty Sexy Money - The one soap-opera style show that I watched. You the plots were over-the-top, but I do love Peter Krause. Plus, the show had another one of my TV crushes -- actress Zoe McLellan. Google her.

The Riches- Eddie Izzard. Minnie Driver. Travelers. Why FX, why did you cancel this very different, and extremely well scripted show?

SHOWS THAT I WATCH WHEN I GET HOME FROM WORK / WAKE UP IN THE MORNING / GO TO BED
Pretty much whenever I am home my television is on. When I get home from work, I have to play with Soze, cook dinner, clean-up, etc. and these are the shows that I scan through each day. When I wake up in the morning and get ready for work, yup the TV is on. And yes, I go to sleep with the TV on.

Pardon the Interruption- Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon have great chemistry and this is an easy way to catch up on the day's sports news.

Cash Cab - The best trivia show on television ... EVER. I love Jeopardy, but come on ... trivia in a New York taxi cab. Plus, the host - Ben Bailey - has one of the best voices on TV. His voice will be in the hall of fame with James Earl Jones, Keifer Sutherland, Alec Baldwin, and Howard Cossell.

Simpsons / Family Guy- From 6 - 8pm, in Baltimore you can turn on a number of channels and catch these two animated comedies. Mindless humor is always nice after a long day at work.

Mike and Mike in the Morning - My morning show -- while I get ready for work. Then I listen to the show on my drive to work.

The Daily Show with John Stewart & The Colbert Report - I got to bed with Stewart and Colbert ever night. And yes I will confess, this is where I get my news of the day.

FOOD NETWORK AND DISCOVERY CHANNEL SHOWS THAT ROCK
These are the shows I watch when I want to consider a career change. You can to live vicariously through some amazing chefs, fishermen, and Mike Rowe.

Dirty Jobs - Mike Rowe is amazing. (Another one of the hall of fame voices.) The jobs are disgusting, but somewhat beautiful as well when presented by the Discovery Channel -- especially in HD.

Iron Chef America - I would give up almost anything to taste one of the meals that is completed during this cooking competition. My only complaint -- Bobby Flay competes too much. We need more Mario, Cat, and Symon battles.

Deadliest Catch - After watching nearly every episode during the Thanksgiving break, I became hooked. I love me some crabs -- hey, I live in Baltimore -- and this show glorifies the crab.

Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives - Guy is awesome ... and the joints he introduces us to are so unique. I actually have been to a few of the places he has visited in Baltimore, and yes the food is amazing at each place.

THE ONLY REALITY TV THAT I WILL WATCH
When reality TV first started I was hooked. Survivor, the Real World, Road Rules, the Amazing Race ... I loved them all. Then the reality TV craze began and I swore off anything that would fall into this category. However, there are still three shows I stuck with. (((Now there is Celeb-reality TV on VH1 ... and since the weekend marathons are one of my guilty pleasures in life ... they don't adhere to my disdain of reality TV programming.)))

American Idol - Yes it can be annoying at times. Yes it is more popular than it should be. But it is addicting, and they do find a lot of people with talent. Plus, Simon is always right.

So You Think You Can Dance- Actually I know I can't dance, but that is why I love this show. These kids have SOOOOO much talent. Plus, Cat Deely is a great host.

Big Brother - Guilty pleasure ... and usually there is not much to watch during the summer.

NEW SHOWS I WILL BE WATCHING THIS SEASON
I am always adding to the lists above. It used to be new shows only premiered in the fall ... now we get new shows all year round. Woo hoo. Here are the ones I am most looking forward to.

Dollhouse - Joss Whedon is another genius. After Buffy I will watch anything this man creates. I am hoping that all the negativity that has surrounded this show doesn't hurt its chances of sticking around for a while.

Lie to Me - I have seen the pilot episode and I am hooked. Tim Roth is great, but the show has a unique premise and I look forward to learning how to tell is people are lying.

The United States of Tara- The story of a pretty normal suburban family, except for the fact that Mom suffers from multiple personalities. I think Showtime has done it again.

Eastbound & Down - I got hooked on Danny McBride from his recent movies - The Foot Fist Way, Tropic Thunder, and Pineapple Express. Add to that it is on HBO, and I am hoping for big things.

Kings - Not really sure about this one, but the guy from Deadwood is in it and early reviews have been positive. We shall see.

I could continue to share more lists such as:

Shows That Are Gone That I Want Back Now:
Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Sports Night, The Sopranos, Freaks and Geeks, Homicide: Life on the Street, Mad About You

Shows I Plan to Catch-up On Via DVDs
The Wire, Arrested Development, Nip/Tuck, The Shield, True Blood

Shows I Will NEVER Watch
Gossip Girl, 90210 (the new one), Grey's Anatomy, Medium, any show on MTV, Hannah Montana, every show on CBS (except for Numb3rs), any show with CSI in it's title

I could go on, but it is late. And I have TV shows to watch,

Don't worry, I'll get back to blogging about more relevant topics in my next entry. I hope you did enjoy this distraction and I know Paul and I would enjoy reading your feedback in the comments section about our TV preferences.

Paul's Rookie Blog

Guest author entry time again. After the popularity of my colleague Jameel's recent guest entry, I returned to the office after the new year to another colleague clamoring to write a blog. So once again I turn over the Hopkins Insider blog to another resident of Mason Hall. Just one caveat ... if after the end of this blog you are asking yourself what does this have to do with college admissions to Johns Hopkins University -- well it doesn't. Think of this as an entry to take your mind off the stresses of applying to college, and a chance to meet another of one the interesting "characters" I get to work with. Enjoy!!!

****************************************************************************************************************************
Ok.  Let me introduce myself.  My name is Paul Jacobus and I work for Johns Hopkins University as the Director of Operations for Mason Hall.  Mason Hall is the new Visitor’s Center for Johns Hopkins University and it houses the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.  Most of you that are taking the time to read this have probably already been in the building or it will be one of the first stops you make after you arrive on Campus. 

I have been working at JHU for the past 9 years.  I started as an Intern for the Department of Athletics and Recreation in August of 1999.  I was fortunate enough to move up in the ranks and when I left in September of 2007, my title was Assistant AD for Facilities and Recreation.  The University was building a brand new Visitor’s Center and they needed someone to run it and as luck would have it, I got the job.  So here I am.  A little over a year in my current position and I have decided that I would like to share with all of you, a little secret….

I watch too much TV.  I know many of you may think the same thing, but seriously, you don’t compare to me.  Not in the slightest.  Most people schedule their television watching around their daily or nightly activities.  Not me.  I am the opposite. I plan out my TV watching weeks in advance.  I schedule it on my Calendar so I don’t forget. 

One of my new favorite pastimes is to program my DVRs.  I have two standard 40 hour dual tuner DVRs along with a TiVo.  I can record 5 shows at once and if that isn’t enough, there is always On Demand.  Seriously, it is a sickness.  And when I commit to a show, I literally watch every episode.  Not live of course, but at some point, I’ll get to it. 

Don’t get me wrong, I do other things.  I watch movies.  I have a Playstation and a Wii.  I read.  I eat.  I work. I do family things with my wife and five year old mini-me son, Paul.  I just tend to do all of those things during the day and into the evening. At about 9:30pm it’s go time.  It’s me time. 

I can usually do about 3 shows a night, and I’m not talking about half hour sitcoms, I’m talking about hour long dramas and lots of them.  Recently, my brother bought me a book for Christmas (not this one but a couple of years back).  After about six months he happened to ask me what I thought about it.  I said that I was sorry but I just didn’t have the time to read it yet.  He was miffed and asked what I meant when I said I didn’t have the time.  My answer was simple ... I watch too much TV.

Now that that has been established, it’s time to find out what floats my boat … what I watch religiously … what I look forward to year after year and what has my interest peaked for the future.  When I am done, you will have some deep insight into what is me.  Perhaps a pattern forms.  You may agree with everything I say … most of you will not.  Maybe you have a suggestion for me (other than “get a life” or “go jump in a lake”).  In any case, replies are welcome and dialogue is key.

As an aside, I understand that this topic in the grand scheme of things really is not important ... but honestly who wants to read more of Admissions_Daniel's thoughts on Admissions. Now the application deadline is past, you need to take a break and think about television. I am your distraction.

Anyone who has a DVR or TiVo knows that there are certain shows that you need to watch live … there are certain ones that have to be watched as soon as you can get to them and then there are some that seem to hang around a little too long but you will get to them eventually. The rest of my “blog” will be patterned in this manner with the hang arounds going first and finishing off with the must see lives and the reality bites.

Hang Arounds – Shows that I like to watch but that tend to build up episodes on my DVR but are eventually watched nonetheless.

CSI (the original) – Sorry to see Gil Grissim leaving but Sara leaving was ok.
CSI Miami – Love me some David Caruso.
CSI New York – Gary Sinese is ok. Least favorite of the CSIs.
Numbers – Like the characters, actors and the stories.  The math is a little fuzzy.
Life – Admissions_Daniel got me watching this. Pretty solid. Girl is not unattractive.

As Soon As you Cans – These are shows that really are some of my favorites and I feel the need to watch them as soon as I can.

Prison Break – hope this is not its last year.  Coming on strong.
Heroes – This is a Love it or Hate it show.  I am intelligent and choose to Love it.
House – Creasy got me into this one as well.  It grew on me.
Criminal Minds – tends to be a little more intense then some others.  Like it a lot.
NCIS – Chemistry is what makes this show great.  That and good writing.
Friday Night Lights – Looking forward to it coming back to regular TV.
Smallville – Its about Superman, Lois Lane, the Justice League…enough said.
Supernatural – Winchester brothers fight demons, shape shifters and even angels.
Fringe – Kind of weird X-Files/Alias hybrid.  I liked both.  I like this.
Burn Notice – Maggie Kennedy, Assoc. Dir. of Admissions got me into this.
Leverage – Same with this one.  Its like a new “Oceans 11” every week.

Must See Lives - These are the shows that I have to watch live or at least on the same date that they air… not only because I feel the need but also because there is no doubt that I will have the episode ruined for me because someone at work or on the radio will be talking about it…

LOST  - Best. Show. Ever.  Cannot wait till January 21st
24 – Second. Best. Show. Ever. Cannot wait till January 11th
Dexter – Routing for a serial killer is disturbing yet satisfying at the same time.
Entourage – Love me some Ari Gold.  And Turtle.

Reality Bites – Yeah – I watch Reality or “Celebreality” shows too… I am embarrassed by some of these. But in an effort to gain trust… in full disclosure I give you…

Survivor – Someone I know bets on this…makes it interesting
Big Brother – Chilltown in the House baby!
Amazing Race – Scenery is nice.  Couples fight.  What else can you ask for?
Rock of Love (Bus) – Its like a car accident… you just can’t turn away.
The Ultimate Fighter – MMA fighters living in same house.  Hilarity ensues.
American Idol – I admitingly love this stupid show.  Sanjya included.
The Biggest Loser – This show inspires people.  Not me, but other people.

Whew… Maybe I am the biggest loser.  Probably not.  Fact is, I am extremely intelligent, incredibly good looking, unbelievably talented and an all around great guy.  I work for Johns Hopkins University.  There is no place I’d rather be and there are no other people that I’d rather be “blogging” to about TV, movies, Pop Culture and sure… about Hopkins too. 

The fact is, this is a great place to work.  This is a great place to live and Hopkins is the best place to go to school.  This is also a site that you will continue to frequent if not for its great Johns Hopkins content, then just to continue to read about the adventures of the people in Mason Hall.  You will laugh. You will cry.  You will like.  You will dislike. You will learn. You will share.  You will be faced with a lot of hard decisions in the coming months. As difficult as it may seem, make the choice that is right for you. 

Good luck to you all…. 
Hope to see you soon…
And don't forget to come visit and know that I am the man behind the building...

Paul

New Year ... Same FAQs

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a happy and healthy holiday season, and have enjoyed the first few days of 2009. I checked out for about two weeks, headed down to Florida with Soze, and really enjoyed a warm weather Christmas and New Years with my family. Just like the previous 32 years, Santa got me what I asked for, so I guess I am still not on that naughty list. Lilly, my soon to be three-year old niece, made out like a bandit ... it took her nearly two hours to open all her presents. We all made sure she enjoyed the holiday, especially since this is her last Christmas as an only child. Yes, this April, Lilly will become a big sister and I will have tons of pictures and stories to share about a new nephew.

My time away was not all about a relaxing holiday vacation; every day I did need to remain connected to the job. Nearly every morning I spent between one to three hours answering questions sent to the main Admissions email account: gotojhu@jhu.edu. On average, each day from December 20 through early this week, we received between 100-150 new emails with some days the in-box displaying over 200 new questions.

Why so many emails? Well if you are asking that question then you probably had a relaxing last two weeks of 2008. I say that because the majority of people reading this blog spent that time frame completing regular decision applications and they know that the tons of emails I was answering were questions from nervous, confused, and stressed-out applicants. Yes, despite all suggestions from sane people who have already completed the college application process, a large percentage of students PROCRASTINATE until the last minute, hesitating to click that submit button. This is not a criticism ... I understand ... and that is why I spent so much time during my vacation answering the endless stream of emails.

Now a week after the deadline I'd love to say that the steady stream of questions has ceased ... but that is not true. Thankfully, many of the questions fall under the frequently asked questions category and that means I already have a template answer that a simple copy and paste can help with clearing out the in-box each day. Nothing has changed over the ten plus years I have been in this profession ... the simple rule is that the questions don't stop after the applications have been submitted.

So as I get back into the groove of reading applications in our new paperless system, I also have been spending time each morning answering your questions. As I have done in previous years, I thought I would post an FAQ thread providing answers to those post-application deadline questions. Enjoy, and make sure to make it to the end of the post for new photos from the office.

Is my application complete?  Do you have all my stuff?
With the volume of materials we need to process right now (see pictures below), we are just not able to confirm whether application files are complete or to identity which individual items have been received. It takes time so we ask patience of all of our applicants.

All applicants will be mailed an acknowledgment postcard (they are blue) after your application is received AND PROCESSED. This indicates your application file has been opened (not necessarily that it is complete. It can take up to 4-6 weeks for these postcards to be sent and received (more for international mailing addresses).

In late February, once we have processed all received application materials, we will contact students whose applications remain incomplete. Those students will be given an opportunity to provide us with any missing items before we complete the evaluation of their applications. Rest assured that application files are checked carefully for completeness multiple times.

Can I check my status online? Why haven't I gotten a user name and password to check my status through the application portal?
We do not have an online system for checking application status. We do things the old-fashion way. You will not receive a log-in and password where you can track your application materials. (Also note, those who apply for financial aid will get access to the ISIS system that tracks financial aid application materials. This system has nothing to do with applications for admission.)

When will decisions be released?
--- Last week in March. No date has been set yet.
How many applications have been received?
--- Not sure yet, but it looks like a number close to last year.
How many will be admitted?
--- No clue. We have to review applications first.
What will the acceptance rate be?
--- Also, no clue. We will rely on our formulas when the time comes.

These are all legitimate questions, but all too early to ask. Once we have updated information, it will be posted on the blog ... I promise.

Can I add items to my application even though the deadline has passed?
Uh oh, I made a mistake in my application, how can I correct it?
Yes, we will still accept application updates and we do have a process for error corrections. It is simple. To provide an update or error correction, you must compose a cover letter and submit these materials by fax (410-516-6025) or mail to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Please note that we do request in the cover letter you include your full name, birth date, and school name (SS# is optional but can help), so that we can merge this new information with your application folder. Also note, that all updates should be sent in by February 1st. Finally, DO NOT SEND UPDATES VIA EMAIL, as we do not process application materials received through email.

When is the Financial Aid deadline and where can I learn more about applying for Financial Aid?
The Financial aid deadline for the submission of the FAFSA and CSS Profile is March 1, 2009. Please review this web site for full details: http://www.jhu.edu/finaid/prosp_stud.html.

May I submit January standardized test scores (SAT Reasoning, SAT Subject exams, or TOEFL) with my regular decision application?
Though regular decision candidates should have completed required tests no later than December of their senior year, students may take the January examinations if they are re-taking the SAT Reasoning exam, are taking SAT II subject exams, or are submitting TOEFL exams. Although we cannot guarantee that January scores will arrive before the Admissions Committee evaluation, past experience suggests that scores taken on these dates usually arrive in time. Basically, if the scores arrive and are processed before a final decision has been rendered on one's application, they will be considered.

Should I rush my test scores?
There is no need to rush test score reports as they are not processed by our office any sooner. This is just a way the College Board / ETS makes more money. Save the money, don't rush scores.

Does Johns Hopkins accept additional letters of recommendation?
We require all applicants to submit two letters of recommendations - one from a teacher and one from a guidance counselor. Applicants may submit additional letters of recommendation but we request that you do not submit more than four letters total. Additional letters of recommendation may come from a coach, employer, extracurricular advisor, additional teacher, school administrator – pretty much anyone who can present additional sides of your character. I would though avoid parental and peer references and make sure all recommendations are received by January 15th.

I would like to submit a recording of my music / slides of my art / portfolio of my newspaper articles / DVD of accomplishments / research abstract / or some other supplemental information. Can I do this and will it be considered?
Yes, supplemental materials are welcome additions to your application. All supplemental information should be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. There are no specific requirements for supplemental materials; you can submit information in any format (e.g. portfolios, CDs, DVDs, slides, etc.) However we make sure applicants understand that typically the Admissions committee does not have much time to review such information. The general rule is that an application reader has about 5 minutes to review supplemental materials. Supplemental materials should arrive no later than February 1st.

Will Soze be reviewing applications again this year?
Absolutely. (Just kidding ... since we are now reading and evaluating application online his lack of typing skills means he can't help this year.)

The following pictures I took on my first day back in the office, Monday, January 5th. They are of the stacks of mail bins and application materials that came in during the previous week and are waiting to processed.
 

And these pictures I took just one day later. The volume of mail and paper to process just increases exponentially this time of year.