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.  

Upcoming academic deadlines

October 7 at 4:30 p.m. is the last day to drop a class. It's also the last day to add Customized Academic Learning online, which includes independent studies, research, theses, and internships.

Resources for free expression
In support of free expression, the university recently updated our resources to provide information, clarification, and examples, including a shorthand Protests and Demonstrations Student Reference Guide and FAQ. If you have questions, please reach out to the office of Leadership Engagement & Experiential Development (LEED).

Stellic, a technology platform designed to help you plan and track your academic path, is now available! In Stellic, you'll be able to see completed, in-progress, and remaining requirements for your major, explore new courses that fit your schedule and interests, and connect directly with your academic advisor for feedback on your plans.

Visit stellic.jhu.edu or follow the link in your SIS Self-Service portal to explore this exciting new tool. As you use the new system and have questions about your academic progress, we encourage you to contact your advisor. 

Between now and November, we'll be highlighting some of the programs and events taking place on campus that focus on democratic participation and civic engagement.

Attend Industry Weeks with the Life Design Lab
Industry Weeks are an exciting opportunity to learn about different industries, network with top employers, and see how your unique talents and skills qualify you for careers across a variety of professional contexts—even those that you may not have considered before! Check out the slate of upcoming Industry Weeks and mark your calendars to connect with employers and alumni in your potential future fields.

Family Weekend is September 27–29
Family Weekend is an opportunity for your family to visit you on campus and explore your home away from home. The schedule of events for the weekend is available on the Family Engagement website, and includes historical walking tours, sports games, performing arts events, and more. If you're looking to treat visiting family or friends to a delicious on-campus meal and you're on a weekly meal swipe plan, remember that you get two guest passes a semester that you can use at Hopkins Café or Nolan's on 33rd!

What would you like to see at JHU's 150th Anniversary Celebration?
2026 is going to be a big year for JHU—it's our 150th anniversary! We’re seeking your help and insight to plan a meaningful celebration in honor of this very special occasion. Take this five question survey to share your thoughts on what kind of events and activities you'd like to see offered next year. The first 25 respondents will receive a special gift from the Sesquicentennial Office!

Upcoming Flu Vaccine Clinics
Undergraduates are required to upload proof of flu vaccination by November 15. If you haven't already, get your flu vaccine at an upcoming walk-in clinic between 9 a.m.–5 p.m. in Shriver Hall's Clipper Room:

Peer Health Educator Recruitment
PEEP is recruiting peer health educators for the Homewood and Peabody campuses! All skills and content training will be provided, so applicants from all backgrounds, skill sets, and identities are encouraged to apply. Applications will close at 5 p.m. on September 30. Apply online today, and if you have questions or need more information, email Megan Tassinari.

Hopkins Symphony Orchestra performs Dvořák on October 5
The Hopkins Symphony Orchestra opens its season with a performance of Dvořák's New World Symphony. This famous work, written in 1893, was intended to demonstrate what an American-inspired orchestral piece might sound like, placing emphasis on Native and African American elements. Student tickets are free, but space is limited—register in Hopkins Groups to attend.

National Pancake Day
Today is National Pancake Day! Celebrate with Hopkins Dining by stopping by Hopkins Café, Nolan's on 33rd, or Peabody during lunch for a build-your-own pancake station featuring various types of pancakes and toppings. Check out the event on Hopkins Groups for more information.

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