My journey to Johns Hopkins University began with a flight departing from London, with a layover in Iceland before landing in Washington, D.C. From there, I made my way to Baltimore, a city that would soon become my home for the duration of my stay. To ensure a comfortable and convenient living situation, I rented a fully furnished apartment within walking distance of the Johns Hopkins campus. This allowed me to easily integrate into the university’s environment and fully immerse myself in my academic pursuits.

One of the most remarkable aspects of my time at Johns Hopkins was the unparalleled access I was granted to the university’s facilities. The library system, with its extensive collections and resources, proved to be an invaluable asset to my research. Beyond academics, I was able to take advantage of the graduate lounge, the gym, and sports facilities, all of which contributed to a balanced and fulfilling daily routine. Johns Hopkins also provides excellent transportation options, including shuttles throughout the city and personalized night rides. This thoughtful system not only made getting around convenient but also ensured a strong sense of safety, allowing me to fully enjoy my time in Baltimore without concerns about late-night commutes.

The people at the Department of Classics were incredibly welcoming and accepting. From the very beginning, I was met with a sense of collegiality and warmth that made the transition into my new academic environment seamless. Engaging with faculty, fellow researchers, and graduate students allowed me to form meaningful connections, both professionally and personally. The department’s support greatly enhanced my research experience and reinforced my enthusiasm for my work.

Baltimore is a city of contrasts—intense, diverse, and full of cultural and historical layers. As a newcomer, I found its vibrancy and complexity intriguing. The city’s energy, combined with its proximity to Washington, D.C., opened up countless opportunities for exploration. Only an hour away by train—at a cost of about $9—Washington, D.C. quickly became a frequent destination for me. One of the greatest advantages of this proximity was the opportunity to visit the Smithsonian system of museums, all of which offer free entry.

Johns Hopkins University stands out as an incredibly dynamic and creative institution. Throughout my stay, the campus was buzzing with events that fostered a strong sense of community. From the festive winter ice-skating rink to the distribution of small but thoughtful souvenirs like mugs and power banks, the university made every effort to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere.

Beyond campus life, the JHU campus in Washington, D.C. regularly hosted high-profile institutional and governmental events. During my stay, for instance, I had the unique opportunity to witness the visit of the President of Kosovo. Such experiences underscored the university’s global presence and its commitment to fostering dialogue on pressing international issues.

As my time in Baltimore and at Johns Hopkins came to an end, I was filled with a profound sense of gratitude and happiness. This experience was truly transformative, both academically and personally. The friendships and professional relationships I built during my stay will remain invaluable, and I will always cherish the time I spent in such a stimulating and supportive environment. The trip significantly contributed to my doctoral research and fostered valuable academic connections that may lead to future collaborations between Warwick and JHU.

Talk at Mutamenti, the JHU–Yale Graduate Conference