Hi! My name is Shaun McGovern, and I am currently a Senior Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Major from Boston, Massachusetts. I always describe myself as a mini-“Bill Nye the Science Guy,” because I am most passionate about science, leadership and education. During my time at Hopkins, I have been involved with the PILOT Learning Program, Senior Leadership Consultants, the Institute for NanoBioTechnology, and the MAPP Mentoring Program.
Unlike most students, I did not discover the Office of Multicultural Affairs until the end of my freshman year. My PILOT Leader at the time, who was also in MAPP, recommended that I apply to be a mentor. Having grown up with two married Moms, I was raised to embrace and value diversity and was immediately drawn to the program. I quickly discovered that MAPP has a passionate and supportive group of multicultural students. To me, multicultural students are simply people that embrace their own personal cultural identity and value learning from others. Whereas many other aspects of Hopkins can be extremely challenging and stressful, OMA is a distinct place where anyone can feel welcomed, comfortable, and supported. Since joining the program a few years ago, I have been fortunate enough to have a family away from home. Even when I am walking from class to class, I find myself constantly surrounded by this awesome group of dedicated people.