At the Life Design Lab at Johns Hopkins University, we believe that the journey to a fulfilling career and life isn’t defined by a single moment or experience but shaped by many. The power of multiple experiences is at the core of our curriculum, providing students with the flexibility and resources to explore diverse opportunities, gain hands-on experience, and continuously refine their career trajectory.
Our Life Design framework encourages students to explore broadly, try new things, and embrace the unexpected. Whether it’s research, internships, volunteer work, or global learning, these experiences help build a robust skill set and clarify personal and professional goals. Each unique opportunity helps students discover new passions, develop resilience, and create a personal toolkit to handle the inevitable twists and turns of career development.
Why are multiple experiences so impactful? They provide a deeper understanding of one’s strengths and preferences, helping students navigate their choices more confidently. For example, a student might begin their journey with a focus on research, but through additional experiences in community engagement or entrepreneurship, they may uncover a new passion or direction. The cumulative effect of these experiences helps develop adaptability, self-awareness, and a stronger sense of purpose.
This fall, we’re excited to showcase student stories from their diverse summer experiences as part of our ongoing effort to highlight the power of exploration. Over the next few months, we’ll feature the journeys of students who embraced the Life Design mindset, reflecting on the insights they gained through internships, research projects, community service, and more. These stories will inspire and demonstrate how stepping out of comfort zones can lead to transformative growth.
As you navigate your path at Johns Hopkins, remember that every experience—big or small—has the potential to shape your future. We encourage you to leverage the resources of the Life Design Lab, embrace experimentation, and pursue the wide array of opportunities that will enrich both your personal and professional journey. Your story is uniquely yours, and we’re here to help you design it with intention and curiosity.
Looking for inspiration from your peers’ transformative summer experiences? The Life Design Lab’s Summer Scholarship Program offers Johns Hopkins students the chance to pursue internships, research, and projects aligned with their passions. These stories highlight how students utilized their scholarships to gain hands-on experience, expand their networks, and refine their career goals. We are excited to continue to share more about how students are embracing multiple experiences while driving meaningful impact and how you can do the same!
