Writing has always felt natural to Ramapo College of New Jersey student Benjamin Hopper. After trying out several majors, he returned to what felt right to him. He now majors in Communications with a minor in Writing and is expected to graduate in the Spring of 2022. Hopper explains the broadness of the field of communications is what also drew him in. With it being broad, he can tackle several different fields within communications that suit his interests. Hopper would like to use his experience as a news journalist to help spread awareness on societal issues. In the future, he would like to attend graduate school and possibly pursue teaching.

At Ramapo College, Hopper is currently an editor and writer for the administration’s Ramapo Green blog which centers on creating a more sustainable campus through progressive clubs and organizations. He uses this opportunity to inform people on his campus about the importance of sustainability. Hopper also writes for the Arts & Entertainment and Viewpoint sections of the student-run newspaper, The Ramapo News.

Hopper took part in a protest in June 2020 following the murder of George Floyd. This experience proved to be impactful for Hopper, as he was able to hear multiple perspectives that differed from his own reality. He also tries to educate himself as much as possible by reading anti-racist resources.

“I want to have created something that can spread the word on how serious and prevalent an issue racism is. I want to help contribute to something as well that can hopefully open someone’s eyes to how they may be complicit in furthering racism and the effect of racism. Overall, I want to bring about a positive change in the world, even if it is a relatively small one.”

Hopper can recall an instance in high school in which he stood up for a friend who was experiencing racism. Another student would constantly bully Hopper’s friend for seemingly no reason. After the aggressor used a racial slur, Hopper stood up in his seat and let him know what he was doing was not okay. Although this felt out of character for him, he knew it was the right thing to do.

“That was the last time that guy, to my knowledge, ever bothered my friend,” Hopper said. “It wasn’t difficult or scary because I didn’t even think about it; I reacted instinctively as soon as it happened.”

One of Hopper’s passions is music, and he enjoys discovering new artists in his leisure time. He also eagerly anticipates reading all of the books in his collection.

If he were guaranteed one wish to come true for himself, it would be for financial security. That would alleviate most of his worries and stress about his future and the plans he has. He also believes financial security will give him the time and resources to explore other pursuits he is passionate about.

If he had a guaranteed wish for the world, Hopper would wish for an end to discrimination He believes that without discrimination, the world would be a better place for everyone with less oppression and conflict and more unity.  

On his bucket list, Hopper hopes to cross off going on a cross-country road trip with his friends.