The spring semester is in full swing, and students have settled into the rhythm of classes, jobs, and student organizations. One of those organizations, Dance Marathon, recently raised more than $1.6 million to support children with cancer and their families at University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. We congratulate them on this epic achievement!

Being involved in a student organization can have a positive impact on your student’s college experience. Students who get involved in an organization often report having a stronger sense of community and purpose than their peers. If your student would like to get more involved, encourage them to browse the many opportunities on this page.

What is engagement advising?

Connecting with activities, jobs, or other opportunities on campus can be overwhelming. Engagement advising is a one-on-one meeting with a member of the university’s Leadership and Engagement team. During the meeting, students can explore organizations, discover campus resources, and create an action plan that fits their interests and goals. Encourage your student to make an appointment here.

Exploring career choices

The All Majors Career Fair will take place from noon-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25. Students will be able to meet and talk with employers from a wide range of industries. Recruiters will share opportunities ranging from internships to full-time positions. Encourage your student to attend and explore career options or practice speaking with employers. Details available here.

Career Treks are another unique opportunity for students to learn more about future careers. During a Career Trek, students can visit job sites, meet professionals, and get a behind-the-scenes look into different fields. There are multiple visits planned and more are added regularly on this site. Your student can register via the links on this page.

Spring break and travel reminders

Spring break is the week of March 15-22. Each year we like to remind students of a few simple steps they can take to prepare and stay safe while traveling. Reminders include how to prepare residence hall rooms, planning for weather, and other safety-related tips. Read and share the reminders here.

Fall 2025 dean’s and president’s lists

The university recognized more than 1,000 president’s list honorees and more than 9,400 dean’s list honorees for the fall 2025 semester. Congratulations to all the recipients! Learn about the criteria and view the lists on this page.

Graduation checklist

If your student plans to graduate this semester, now is a great time for them to review the graduation checklist. Degree applications, ordering regalia, reviewing ceremony information, and getting tickets are all part of the process. View the checklist here to help ensure a smooth celebration.

Note: degree applications for May commencement are due Friday, Feb. 27.

Student spotlight: Alyssa Fisher

In this month’s spotlight, Fisher shares her experience working at the Burge Residence Hall front desk and connections she’s made between her job, academics, and future career plans. Watch her story here.

Check out our campus tour video

We recently updated our campus tour video! Watch the video to familiarize yourself with some of the places your Hawkeye frequents on campus.

Strategies for your student to stay motivated

Even after a break from the hustle and bustle of college life, getting to class amidst the cold weather and overwhelming schedule can prove stressful. Bri Brands, a student in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, shares these strategies for students to stay motivated.

Conversation starters

With several weeks behind them, students have a feel for their classes and instructors, and routines are in place for the semester. Here are a few questions to help kick off a timely conversation.

• Who is your favorite instructor this semester?
• Is anything stressing you out you that want to talk about?
• What are your go-to meals lately?
• What’s something you’re looking forward to?

Upcoming events for students

• Home games and athletic events
  Students can cheer on their fellow Hawkeyes at any number of upcoming meets, games, and athletics competitions. Students get free admission to many Iowa athletics events.
  
  
• Rec After Dark
  9 p.m.–midnight, Friday, Feb. 27
  Campus Recreation and Wellness Center 
  A themed late-night event at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center featuring open recreation, fitness activities, games, music, and free food in a fun, safe campus environment.
  
  
• Trivia Night
  5–6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 3
  Blank Honors Center, room 440
  An evening of fast-paced questions and friendly competition.
  
  
• Head over Heels
  C. Mabie Theatre, UI Theatre Building
  Various showtimes Friday, Feb. 20, through Sunday, Feb. 22
  A rebellious musical fueled by the 1980s band, the Go-Go’s iconic hits
  
  
• Dance Faculty Concert
  8 p.m., Thursday–Friday, March 12–13
  Space Place Theater, 20 Davenport St., Iowa City
  See new work choreographed by University of Iowa Department of Dance faculty.
  
  
• Physics and Astronomy Demo Show
  7–8 p.m., Friday, March 13
  Van Allen Hall, Lecture Room 1
  An evening of live science demonstrations designed to spark curiosity and discovery.