Programming note: The next edition of The Word from the Bird will be published on Wednesday, March 26. We hope you have a fun, safe, and restful Spring Break!

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 compiles 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 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. 

Class of 2025 Commencement registration is now open

Eligible graduation candidates should have received a registration email from the Tassel platform. Participation in the Commencement ceremony requires registration in Tassel by Friday, April 18. While in Tassel, verify your name, pronunciation, and degree. If you haven’t received your email from Tassel, reach out to your school’s Registrar.

Learn how Hopkins Research Saves Lives

JHU is home to research that powers scientific breakthroughs and lifesaving cures. The university’s Research Saves Lives campaign is telling stories about the incredible research projects underway across the institution, amplifying what’s at stake when research is jeopardized, and standing together to protect the future of research. Learn more about the campaign and how you can show your support through social media profile frames, virtual backgrounds, and other materials.

Spring Break is right around the corner, and whether you’re traveling or staying in Baltimore, we hope you enjoy your time off! 

For the latest updates on construction projects and active alerts affecting Homewood campus, visit the Facilities & Real Estate website.

Explore areas of study at the JHU Major Fair
Trying to decide what major or minor to declare, or want to get to know more about your intended major or minor? Visit the JHU Major Fair on Friday, March 7 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the O'Connor Recreation Center to meet faculty and students and explore different programs and opportunities within the departments. The fair is a joint partnership between Student Transitions & Family Engagement, the Life Design Lab, WSE, and KSAS.

A fireside chat with Yara Shahidi
Join Life Design Lab for a fireside chat on Tuesday, March 11 with Yara Shahidi–award-winning actress, producer, podcast host, and cultural leader shaping the future. From Hollywood to Harvard, Yara has forged a career that blends storytelling, education, and creativity. Now, she’s coming to Hopkins for an unfiltered conversation on curiosity, confidence, and redefining success. Tickets are now available!

Ice cream field trip with Taharka Brothers
Visit local Hopkins Dining partner, Taharka Brothers Ice Cream, on Friday, March 14 to learn more about the company and its sustainability practices. Transportation will be provided by Hopkins Dining; register online by March 10.

Upcoming events from Off-Campus Housing
Sophomores: Come along as we explore the process of securing housing for the upcoming year. This evening (Thursday, March 6), Off-Campus Housing staff will discuss housing options, finding a roommate, things to look for in a lease, how to be a good neighbor and more. Register online to attend.

On Saturday, March 8, Off-Campus Housing will host a neighborhood Open House. Stop by our office in McCoy Hall to pick up a map and hot beverage before you tour participating off-campus properties from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more and register in Hopkins Groups.  

Hopkins Dining wants your feedback
Now through Friday, March 14, take the annual Hopkins Dining customer satisfaction survey to share your feedback. Students who complete the survey will be entered for a chance to win various prizes. 

Community walk for suicide prevention
Join Health Promotion and Well-Being at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walk on April 5. The event will feature performers, a speaker, and activities to raise awareness about suicide prevention, followed by a community walk around campus. Register online to attend.  

Upcoming book discussions
Join the Center for Social Concern on Wednesday, March 12 for a book discussion on Fighting to Breathe: Race, Toxicity, and the Rise of Youth Activism in Baltimore by Nicole Fabricant. The discussion will explore the impacts of toxic industrial emissions on the Curtis Bay community in South Baltimore, and how young organizers have responded to the crisis. A free copy of the book will be provided. Register in Hopkins Groups to attend.

Also on March 12: a book discussion with author R. Eric Thomas about his heartfelt and hilarious memoir, Here For It—a collection of essays about growing up seeing the world differently, finding unexpected hope, and experiencing every awkward, extraordinary stumble along the way. Sponsored by the FLI Network, Common Question, and the JHU Writing Center. Register online to attend.

Join JHUMA for an interfaith iftar on March 12
The Johns Hopkins University Muslim Association, in collaboration with Multicultural Affairs and Religious and Spiritual Life, is hosting an interfaith iftar on March 12 from 6– 8:45 p.m. at the Hilton DoubleTree Inn at The Colonnade Baltimore. Participants are encouraged to fast for the day to experience Ramadan, but fasting is optional. The evening will include a catered iftar dinner, a guest talk by Dr. Tahir Wyatt, Quran recitation, and conversations with Muslim students about their experiences. RSVP on Hopkins Groups.

Conduct and Ethics Board seeking new members
The Office of Student Conduct is seeking diverse student leaders who uphold the values of the university for the Student Conduct Board. The position description is available online; applicants must be available for a group interview day on Saturday, April 12.

As the spring semester continues, we'd like to share some resources available to support you: