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 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.  

Programming note: The next edition of The Word from the Bird will be published on Wednesday, March 27. We hope you have a fun, safe, and restful Spring Break!

Spring break operating hours at dining facilities
Planning to stay on campus for spring break, or just want to stay up to date with our hours of operation before you leave? Visit the Hopkins Dining website to find out which locations will be open, which locations will close, and which locations may have modified operating hours between Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, March 24.

Seeking participants for undergraduate student journey research
JHU is working with global design and innovation firm IDEO to understand and map the undergraduate JHU student journey, and help explore opportunities for improving student success in all areas of campus life. Join us for various in-person or virtual research sessions to share your perspectives and improve the JHU student experience! Students who are selected to participate will be compensated. Learn more and fill out the interest survey.

Conceptual drawings of the planned renovation of the library

Construction will begin in summer 2024 to renovate and redesign the Milton S. Eisenhower Library, which first opened to Hopkins students 60 years ago. The library is overdue for critical upgrades to comply with modern building, safety, and accessibility standards. The renovation will prioritize natural light, open and welcoming spaces for collaboration, and a renewed commitment to accessibility and sustainability.

Dean of the Library Elisabeth Long has been holding information sessions to provide updates and answer student questions about the renovation, including information about alternative study spaces on campus during construction. The next session will be held on Wednesday, March 27 from 5–6 p.m. over Zoom. No advance registration is required; we hope to see you there!

Get personalized academic help with Learning Den Tutoring
The Learning Den Tutoring, available to registered students in the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences and Whiting School of Engineering, offers three distinct programs tailored to academic needs. These include drop-in tutoring targeting specific courses, department-focused help rooms, and personalized tutoring sessions. With a focus on reinforcing subject knowledge, aiding with homework-like problems, and enhancing course-specific study skills, tutoring sessions span from the second week to the last week of classes.

Registration for summer courses is now open
Students who are interested in taking a summer course at Hopkins can now register through SIS. With more than 100 courses to choose from, undergraduate students can fulfill a credit requirement or explore a new interest. Registration is open until courses begin. Contact Student Financial Support to learn more about potential financial aid for summer courses.

Recruiting First-Year Mentors for Fall 2024
The Office of Orientation & First-Year Experience is currently accepting applications for Fall 2024 First-Year Mentors (FYMs). FYMs provide peer-to-peer support during New Student Orientation and the Fall semester to ensure the successful transition of all new students into the Homewood community. Applications are due March 10, 2024; in addition to the information online, we invite you connect with your FYM or email firstyear@jhu.edu to learn more about this exciting opportunity to serve our community.

Apply to serve on the Student Conduct Board
The Office of Student Conduct is looking to build a diverse board of student leaders who represent the integrity of the university, the Student Conduct Code, and the Homewood Undergraduate Academic Ethics Policy. You can view the position description online; applications to serve on the Student Conduct Board will be accepted through March 24. Applicants should also be available for a group interview day, which will take place on Saturday, April 20, 2024.

Virtual Off-Campus Housing Fair on April 3
Looking for an apartment? Let Off-Campus Housing help you jump start the process! At the Virtual Off-Campus Housing Fair on April 3, commercial property representatives from around the greater Charles Village area will be on-hand to provide information about leasing options and pricing. Register online to attend.

Coming soon: 2024 Senior Survey
The Senior Survey provides graduating KSAS and WSE juniors and seniors with an opportunity to evaluate their undergraduate institution, assess their own progress, and report on their plans for the future. The Office of Undergraduate Analytics will open the survey to students in late March or early April; look for updates via e-mail about participating.

Empower Hour at the Rec
The Empower Hour series returns to the Rec this spring! From 7–9 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27 and Wednesday, April 24, Weight Room A will be reserved for women and non-binary students to gather and learn about weightlifting form, technique, and safety. The goal of this series is to empower students to feel confident and comfortable in the gym. Register in Hopkins Groups to attend an upcoming session!

Complete the Maryland College Alcohol Survey
Want a chance to win a Nintendo Switch, exam prep book, movie tickets or more? Search your email for "Maryland College Survey" to see if you were selected as part of a random sampling of Maryland undergraduates to share experiences around alcohol and substance use, mental health and related issues. The Maryland College Alcohol Survey is open through March 17; if you have questions about participating, contact Health Promotion & Well-Being.

Join the Out of the Darkness Walk on April 13
Walk with the JHU community on April 13 to raise awareness for suicide prevention and bring hope to people affected by suicide. The event includes a ceremony, resources, and a walk around Homewood campus. This program raises awareness for suicide prevention and brings hope to those affected by suicide. Register or join a team online; for disability accommodations, please contact Megan Tassinari. Opportunities to volunteer, speak, and perform are also available.

Weekly trivia night with the HOP
Get ready to test your knowledge at the HOP’s upcoming trivia night event on March 7 at 8 p.m. Join fellow students for an exciting evening filled with fun facts, friendly competition, and great prizes. RSVP in Hopkins Groups.

Celebrate Pi Day on March 14
Visit the Breezeway on March 14 for a ‘slice’ of the action on Pi Day. From 12–2 p.m., the HOP will be passing out pieces of pie to take part in the “irrationally” delicious and mathematical celebration! RSVP in Hopkins Groups.

As we approach the midway point in the spring semester, remember to take good care of yourself! Among the support resources available to students: