John Delgado-McCollum

MSB ’16
Age: 19
Hometown: Phoenix, Ariz.
Major: Undeclared

What is something that you’ve done at Georgetown that you never thought you’d ever do?
I’ve gotten into running. I think Georgetown has made me want to be a more physically active person, and I never anticipated that it’d be a hobby that I’d enjoy. It allows me to be healthy and enjoy this wonderful area and weather and enjoy the monuments and other things.

What was your experience in transferring from the College to the MSB, and why did you do it?
It was a very smooth experience, and it was the result of my working for The Corp and finding a love for business as a result. 

How has being an RA changed your perspective as a student, and why did you decide to return as an RA next year?
I’ve learned even more about all that this campus has to offer, and I really discovered that love for the Division of Student Affairs and how much they really care about the people at Georgetown. And, it was really made clear to me how much the Jesuit priorities that we talk about so much have so much impact on our daily life as students. I decided to return because I had an amazing first-year experience, and our staff was incredible. I’m going to miss our seniors so much, and I pray that next year we can have another great experience, but also I can have an experience leading it and developing an experience that is as close and familial as we had this past year. 

As an alumnus, will you donate to Georgetown? Why?
Of course. I’ve been very blessed by the alumni, and I am here on financial aid, like many of my fellow students, and it has given me access to the great gift and privilege of education. I would really relish the opportunity to share that with future Hoyas.

Do you feel like you fit in at Georgetown?
Absolutely. It was difficult at first, but after I really found the right group of people and really immersed myself in this culture, the environment and truly embraced it, I really felt my identity becoming intertwined with it. As a result, I felt that I fit in very closely.

What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?
Leaving for Georgetown, knowing that I would never talk to the majority of my really close high school friends ever again.

Compare and contrast Phoenix with Georgetown.
There’s definitely a pace differential between Phoenix and Georgetown. Because Phoenix is in the Southwest, it is a lot more relaxed and a lot more casual in every way possible, so as a result, I find that it’s a lot easier to really seize the moment and not just get caught up in the work in Phoenix. The weather is obviously very different, and I miss the dry heat of Phoenix, especially in the humid heat in D.C. And I know this may seem silly, but I’d say the largest difference for me, personally, is the lack of family. I don’t have any family that is easily accessible here in D.C., so I really miss both my family and close friends back home.

What is your greatest fear?
At the end of my life, looking back on it and knowing that I could’ve done more and had a greater impact on society.

What description of yourself would you find most flattering?
A close friend that you can depend on no matter what.

Interview by Penny Hung