<p>I find myself assuming that a large majority of JHU applicants have research backgrounds. So, is doing research (and perhaps going far with it) considered as impressive by admissions officers or do they generally EXPECT to see it?</p>
<p>Hello again!</p>
<p>I don't think any university EXPECTS to see research, and I'm sure a high percentage (>50%) have no background in research. That said, however, I think JHU puts more emphasis on research as an important component of an undergrad education than any other top university. So, sure, proving that you're capable will surely be impressive and a benefit to your app.</p>
<p>But again, you can have potential for research without actually having done any by the time you're 18, and JHU must know that.</p>
<p>Personally, I did submit research, and I do think it helped get me in. But it didn't make or break the deal. That was independent research, which I did in conjunction with a few internships, one of which was at a research institute.</p>
<p>I think that you will have the oppurtunity to do research at Hopkins, but it's necessarily EXPECTED. Just do extracurriculars that interest you. Don't do it because you HAVE to. I personally did not do any research and received the Hodson Trust, even though I applied as a Biology major. But this is just one instance. Just do what you feel is right.</p>
<p>This year I was accepted to Hopkins and one of my main EC's that I highlighted in my application was my research. I would say that if you see a unusually large population of undergrads with research experience at JHU it is completely sensible because JHU is the place to be if you want to do research and this is why so many of these students are attracted to JHU. I think my previous research experience definitely contributed to why I received the Woodrow Wilson Research Grant but realize working in a lab is often very difficult for a high school student unless you find a very generous, "teacher-minded" researcher who is willing to train an inexperienced high school student (trust me there are a lot of labs that take motivated high students). Now do I think it is necessary to being admitted as an undergraduate- GOD NO... (its grad schools who care about your research experience). </p>
<p>Overall I think you need to do things you're passionate about. I was passionate about my research and that is why I made sure to emphasize that in the application process. You need to figure out what you are passionate about and just spend time doing that activity whether that activity is research, sports, music, etc.</p>