We know you have lots to keep track of as a Hopkins student, and The Word from the Bird is here to help! Each edition includes a compilation of important deadlines, announcements, and other need-to-know information, along with helpful reminders and updates about resources, services, programs, and more. Let us know how we can make this new communication more helpful at studentaffairs@jhu.edu. If you missed a previous edition of the newsletter, you can find an archive of past issues online.  

FAFSA application deadline extended
Due to technical difficulties, the FAFSA application deadline has been extended to February 15, 2024. Please note that there will be a delay between the date you submit the FAFSA and when we receive it; if you have already submitted your FAFSA application in December or January, please note that JHU will not be able to confirm receipt until early February.  

If you have questions about your application, please reach out to SEAM for assistance; virtual and in-person appointments are available.   

Shuttle service during inclement weather
In the case of severe weather conditions (including snow and ice), bus and shuttle service may be temporarily suspended. Be sure to check the Alerts & Outages page for the latest information about shuttle schedules and road closures around campus. Notifications will also be posted on TransLoc.

Submit your feedback on draft JHPD policies 
A second round of draft policies for the Johns Hopkins Police Department was published online on November 30. The public comment period on these policies closes on Monday, January 29, 2024; all students are invited to review the draft policies and submit feedback online. 

The Johns Hopkins Ice Rink at Homewood has returned for the 2024 winter season! All JHU students are invited to sign up for a free 90-minute skating session now through February 25. Rental skates, beverages, and snacks are also free of charge to all attendees who have completed their registration and submitted an electronic waiver.  
 
The ice rink is located off W. University Parkway near the intersection of San Martin Drive, behind the Imagine Center. Check out the calendar for available time slots, theme nights, and giveaways—including special Blue Jay Tuesday sessions, when we’ll be giving away exclusive Hopkins gear you won’t want to miss! 

DEI Collective summer internships
Looking for an internship at a company that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion—and shares where they are in that process? For the third year running, Hire Hopkins’ DEI Collective is spreading the word about summer internships at companies, nonprofits, and research groups that are committed to making workplaces more inclusive. There are currently 18 employers participating and 38 live jobs, with more employers and jobs added weekly. Learn more about the DEI Collective and log in to Handshake to see organizations currently accepting applications for summer 2024. Many opportunities have application deadlines coming up this week and next!

Spring 2024 registration is still open
As a reminder, spring course registration remains open for all undergraduate students! Please note that continuous registration is available through February 2, 2024 at 12 p.m. Contact your academic advisor or make an appointment with SEAM to discuss your academic progress and begin planning for the upcoming semester. 

The Spring Student Involvement Fair is Feb. 2
Learn about involvement opportunities with nearly 400 student organizations and campus departments! The Spring Student Involvement Fair will be held in the O’Connor Center for Recreation and Well-Being on Friday, February 2 from 2–5 p.m. Register to attend in Hopkins Groups and follow LEED on Instagram for the latest updates. 

Sorority and fraternity recruitment opens for spring
Interested in exploring sorority life at JHU? Registration for Spring 2024 Panhellenic recruitment closes tonight, Wednesday, January 24, at 5 p.m., so be sure to sign up as soon as possible if you plan to participate in Recruitment Weekend festivities this Thursday, January 25 through Sunday, January 28. 

Recruitment is also open for our 10 Intercultural Greek Council-affiliated fraternities and sororities, and well as our 6 Interfraternity Council men's fraternities. Complete their respective interest forms to learn more. 

If you have any questions, contact Fraternity and Sorority Life at ofsl@jhu.edu, and follow FSL on Instagram for more news and updates. You can also read more about recruitment registration on the FSL website. 

The Bun Shop comes to Charles Street Market  
Hopkins Dining is excited to announce that The Village Deli at Charles Street Market has been replaced with local vendor The Bun Shop. Visit the cafe for coffee and a variety of sweet and savory buns! Follow Hopkins Dining on Instagram for more updates about new dining options on campus.

New resources from Student Disability Services  
Student Disability Services has a new website, Instagram account, and newsletter.  

Visit sds.jhu.edu to find information about requesting accommodations, as well as resources for students and learners across the university. SDS has also expanded its Instagram presence to become a university-wide account; follow @sdsjhu for the latest information and updates.  

Finally, Breaking Down Barriers is the new monthly newsletter from SDS. Current and past issues can be accessed online, along with instructions for signing up.

Rec Center’s spring open house 
The O’Connor Center for Recreation and Well-Being will be hosting its spring semester open house from January 22 through February 4. All Hopkins students and other affiliates are invited to try out the Rec Center (including the indoor pool, newly expanded weight room, and group fitness classes) for free. To participate, download the Follow Me to the Rec app (via the Apple Store or Google Play), purchase a one-day membership, complete the waiver, and enjoy your workout! Follow @jhurecreation for specific details and program offerings throughout the semester. 

Pack the Nest for Hopkins Wrestling
With this double match-up against two different opponents, you know there will something exciting to see on Saturday! Hopkins Wrestling will take on the United States Merchant Marine Academy and Muhlenberg at 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 27 in Goldfarb Gym. Register to attend in Hopkins Groups. 

Glow painting and more with The HOP
Join The HOP next Wednesday to paint glass jars that glow in the dark! All materials will be provided. The event takes place in Levering Lounge from 6–8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 31. Register to attend in Hopkins Groups and also check out the complete list of events The HOP will be holding in the coming weeks.

Follow @jhustudentlife on Instagram for more events, programming, and resources to celebrate the start of the spring semester. You can also browse our online directory of Student Affairs social media accounts to find more accounts to follow!

As the new semester begins, remember to take good care of yourself during the transition back to campus and classes. Among the resources available to students: