Happy New Year, Hawkeye families! We hope you and your student had time to connect and recharge over break, as the spring semester is now underway.

January is a great time for students to explore academic and wellbeing resources, from fitness and wellness programs to tutoring, mental health supports, and student organizations.

We're excited to announce the dates for Family Weekend 2026! Family Weekend will take place Sept. 18-20, with registration opening in June. We look forward to welcoming you back to campus for another memorable year.

Returning to campus

As the spring semester gets underway, here are some important dates and deadlines to remind your student about.

• The last day for students to change their spring course registration is Monday. After this date, changes require permission from an academic advisor.
  
  
• The final deadline for students to drop a class without a mark on their transcript is Monday, Feb. 2. See the official academic calendar for other key deadlines. 
  
  
• Deadlines for students returning to live in the residence halls in the fall 2026 semester are available on this page.

• If your student needs assistance navigating the start of the semester, Student Care and Assistance is a great resource for them.

Strategies for a successful semester

A new semester is a great time for students to reflect on academic progress. This article from Learning at Iowa highlights several strategies for success, including self-reflection, setting actionable goals, optimizing time management strategies, and developing good note-taking habits.

Attending office hours for a course is another great way to start the semester. One common myth is that office hours are only for students who are struggling. Remind your student that office hours are for all students, and share these myths and tips from Learning at Iowa.

Student jobs on campus

Students who work on campus report feeling more prepared, better organized, and more informed about career options. The university is hiring students in many departments and roles. Encourage your student to browse jobs and apply on Handshake, the university’s student job portal. New listings are added daily.

Student spotlight: Jordan Bull-Welch

Jordan Bull-Welch worked her way from student associate to student manager at Catlett Marketplace. Working at Catlett has helped her become a better leader, improve her time management, and build meaningful friendships. Bull-Welch appreciates the skills she’s developed during her time there.

Featured family: Mitzi, Craig, Devin, and Ryan Lynch

Mitzi and Craig Lynch discovered Iowa during their son Devin’s college search in 2017. Their younger son Ryan is currently a fourth-year student who plans to graduate in May with degrees in Journalism and Mass Communication and Sport and Recreation Management. Learn more about their experience here. 

Test your Iowa City knowledge

University of Iowa alum Sally Hoelscher (PhD, 1995) is a is a crossword puzzle constructor for several publications, including USA Today. Hoelscher created an Iowa-themed crossword specifically for Iowa Magazine readers. To test your crossword skills or read more about Hoelscher, visit this article from the Iowa Magazine.

Conversation starters

Starting a new semester is a chance for students to build new habits and try new things. Check in with your student about how their first weeks are going. Here are some prompts to help kick things off.

• What new habits do you want to establish this semester?
• How are you feeling about your classes so far? What’s your favorite?
• What are some realistic goals you have for this semester?
• Do you know how to get help if you need it?
• Are you planning on joining any organizations or trying new activities?

2025 UI Rewind

From a new hospital to a national championship, satellite launches to a record incoming class, Iowa’s accomplishments in 2025 were many. This video highlights some of the special moments.

Upcoming events for students

• Book Club at the Museum
  7-8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 2
  Old Capitol Museum
  Students are invited to a monthly book club inside the Old Capitol Museum, featuring books of all genres chosen by participants. Come read, reflect, and connect through shared stories.
  
  
• Setting Yourself up for Success
  11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 4
  South Galleria, Pappajohn Business Building
  Learn strategies to set yourself up for a healthy and well-balanced semester. 
  
  
• How to Defend Yourself
  Various times, Friday through Sunday, Feb. 6-14
  David Thayer Theatre, UI Theatre Building
  A theatrical production by Liliana Padilla that explores trauma, survival, and self-defense with honesty, humor, and complexity.
  
  
• Night at the Museum (monthly)
  5-7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 12
  Stanley Museum of Art
  A monthly evening series at the Stanley Museum of Art offering hands-on activities, creative exploration, and a chance to unwind with peers.