Get Involved

Being a Buff: How to make your CU Boulder experience truly yours

Anonymous — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 20:15:18 +0000

Being a Buff: How to make your CU Boulder experience truly yours Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 10/10/2025 - 14:15

Being a Buff means more than just wearing black and gold—it’s about embracing curiosity, community and pride in everything you do. At CU Boulder, your college experience is what you make of it, and the best way to make it meaningful is to dive in and get involved.

Whether you're in your first or final year, now’s the time to lean in. Ask questions, try new things and discover what makes this place—and you—extraordinary.

Get involved and connected

Getting involved allows you to shape your own experience. Whether you're cheering on the Buffs at an athletics game, volunteering in the Boulder community or joining a student organization, each step you take helps define your journey here.

Homecoming is a great time to jump in. It’s a chance to connect with fellow Buffs, take part in campus traditions and show your school pride. From the Student Game Day Huddle to events across campus, these moments bring us together and celebrate what it means to be part of our community.

If you’re looking to make an impact beyond campus, volunteering is a meaningful way to do just that. Through Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE), you can support causes you care about, meet new people and gain valuable experience for your resume.

Whatever your interests or goals are, your involvement is what makes CU Boulder feel like home. So, take the initiative and build the experience that’s right for you. It’s that spirit of exploration and engagement that can make your time here unforgettable.

Support your local community

Being a Buff means being part of something bigger, both on campus and in the Boulder community. One of the best ways to enhance your college experience is by showing up with curiosity, kindness and respect wherever you go.

Start by exploring Boulder’s vibrant local scene. Known for its amazing food and welcoming vibe, Boulder is full of restaurants, cafes and coffee shops. Whether you're grabbing brunch on The Hill, sipping coffee on Pearl Street or shopping at the Boulder Farmers Market, supporting local businesses helps strengthen the community you're now a part of. Plus, many places offer student deals and discounts—just bring your Buff OneCard!

But being a good community member goes beyond where you eat or shop. It’s about how you treat others and the choices you make every day. The Colorado Creed, created by students, is a reminder to live with honor, integrity and respect. It’s a commitment to being mindful of your actions and their impact—on campus, in town and online. Living the creed helps build a stronger, more connected community, and can make your time here even more meaningful.

�鶹��Ƶ what makes CU Boulder one-of-a-kind

One of the best parts of being a Buff is having access to experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From iconic traditions to hidden gems, CU Boulder offers countless ways to make your time here unforgettable.

Let your curiosity guide you to these must-try Buff experiences:

Visit the Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge in the UMC to play, compete or just chill with friends in a high-tech space built for everyone.

Head to the Rec Center to swim in the Buff Pool or work out with mountain views that remind you why our campus is the best.

Try Extreme Bowling at The Connection, CU’s own bowling alley.

Lounge on Farrand Field between classes or gather with friends for a sunset picnic with the Flatirons in the background.

Watch Ralphie run at a home football game—there’s nothing quite like seeing our live mascot charge across the field to kick off game day.

Spend time outside—whether it’s hiking, skiing or a stroll down the Boulder Creek Path, the great outdoors is part of the CU lifestyle for many students.

These experiences are more than just bucket list items—they’re part of what makes being a Buff so special. So go ahead, try something new, meet someone new and make the most of every moment.

Learn more about getting involved by following @CUBoulderLife and @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

Being a Buff means more than just wearing black and gold—it’s about embracing curiosity, community and pride in everything you do. Whether you're in your first or final year, now’s the time to lean in. Ask questions, try new things and discover what makes this place—and you—extraordinary.

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How to get ready for game day

Emily Sampl — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How to get ready for game day Emily Sampl Tue, 09/30/2025 - 00:00

The CU Buffs will take on Iowa State at Folsom Field on Oct. 11. Whether you’re on campus for the game, attending a watch party or cheering from home, here are some tips to get ready for game day.

Check out events before the game

Pearl Street Stampede

Friday, Oct. 10 | 7 p.m. | Pearl Street

The Pearl Street Stampede is a fall tradition, featuring the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Colorado Spirit Squad and members of the CU Buffs football team. The stampede will begin in front of the courthouse and move west, stopping on each block of the Pearl Street Mall to perform

Student Game Day Huddle

Saturday, Oct. 11 | 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Farrand Field

Come cheer on the Buffs at the student tailgate tradition, hosted by the Division of Student Life and the Dean of Students. There will be free food, games, music and a chance to be chosen as the Student Fan of the Game.

Get organized

If you’re attending the game at Folsom Field, here are some things to know:

Wear your favorite black CU gear: Show off your Buff pride with this game's color theme of Buffs Wear Black.

Use a clear bag: Folsom Field has a clear bag policy in place. Review Folsom Field policies and reminders.

Practice the CU Fight Song: Watch this video to learn the CU Fight Song before game day.

Visit the CU Athletics website

Be respectful and considerate

Remember that you’re a Buff wherever you are. Whether you’re watching the game at Folsom Field, a local restaurant or a friend’s house off campus, be considerate and respectful to those around you. Buffs stand shoulder to shoulder and value honor, respect and integrity. Make sure you’re welcoming fans, new and old, treating everyone with dignity and celebrating responsibly.

If you’re off campus, be mindful of noise levels. Excessive noise at any time of the day can result in a nuisance ticket—a common citation that can be avoided. You can also be fined if there is trash in your yard or around your property.

If you’re planning on hosting a gathering, lower your chances of receiving an expensive ticket by registering your party with Off-Campus Life. Registering your party will give you a 20-minute notification to shut things down before police are dispatched if a complaint has been made against your address.

Learn more about behaviors that could cost you

Look out for yourselves and each other

We can all do our part to look out for fellow Buffs, both on and off campus.

If you’re concerned about your safety or someone else's, keep an eye on the situation and don’t hesitate to call for help. Always call 911 in a drug- or alcohol-related emergency.

Review the Amnesty Policy to learn more about what to do if you need to call for help in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency.

Review more information about how you can be an effective bystander and look out for other members of our community.

Learn more about how to look out for each other

The CU Buffs will take on BYU at Folsom Field on Sept. 27. Whether you’re on campus for the game, attending a watch party or cheering from home, here are some tips to get ready for game day.

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Meet Buffs with similar hobbies

Anonymous — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 23:00:41 +0000

Meet Buffs with similar hobbies Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 09/24/2025 - 17:00

Whether you’re interested in crafting, gaming or other hobbies, there are many options to do activities you enjoy and get to know Buffs with similar interests. Check out these events, student organizations and programs to meet new friends.

Sports and fitness

Sign up for an Intramural Sports league or try out for a Sport Club.
Join a student organization focused on sports and fitness, like the CU Boulder Ice Skating Club or Alpine Club at CU.
Check out classes, programs and events at the Rec Center.
Cheer on the CU Buffs! View schedules for CU soccer, volleyball and football games.

Esports and gaming

Visit the Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge in the University Memorial Center.
Hang out at The Connection and enjoy ping pong, billiards, bowling, video games or board games.
Join a student organization focused on games and esports, like CU Tabletop RPG Club, CU Marginalized Genders in Gaming or CU Gaming.
Check out student events like trivia nights, gaming tournaments and more.

Outdoor adventures

Sign up for a group trip or class with Outdoor Pursuits. Available courses and trips include fly fishing, hiking and more.
Join a student organization dedicated to outdoor sports, like Boulder Freeride or CU Mountain Biking.
Plan to take the CU Ski Bus this winter for sustainable transportation to the mountains.

Music and entertainment

Attend a concert, film screening or other event offered by Program Council.
Join a student organization focused on entertainment or performing arts, like Boulder Film Buffs, Buffoons or CU Rave Club.
Sign up for a dance class at the Rec Center. Classes are open to all fitness and experience levels.

Crafting and art

Participate in a DIY Night. These events are a great way to meet fellow crafters and try new things.
Join a student organization dedicated to creative arts, like CU Ceramics Club, Painting Pals or Crochet and Conversations.
Check out student events like guided paint classes and more.

Social justice, advocacy and activism

Connect with the Center for Cultural Connections & Community.
Join a student organization focused on social justice and activism, like Students Against Unjust Imprisonment or New Era Colorado.
Get involved with the Sustainable Buffs Community at the Environmental Center.
Check out the Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to get involved on campus or in the local community. There are one-time, short-term and long-term volunteer options.
Learn about student activism on campus and civic engagement with resources from the Center for Student Involvement.

For more ways to get involved and meet others:

Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.
Download the CU Boulder Life app.
Check out upcoming student events.
Find student organizations and events on BuffConnect.

Whether you're into crafting, gaming or other hobbies, you have plenty of opportunities to enjoy favorite activities and meet fellow Buffs with similar interests. Explore events, student organizations and programs to make new friends.

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Things to try before you graduate

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:36:42 +0000

Things to try before you graduate Valerie Padilla Wed, 09/24/2025 - 09:36

Whether you have only a few months left of being a Buff or a few years, there are bucket list items to check off, new involvement opportunities to take advantage of and more fun ways to close out your time at CU Boulder. Here’s a list of things to try.

Attend a CU Athletics event

Nothing will bring out your school pride more than cheering on the Buffs at athletic events. In addition to football games at Folsom Field, be sure to check out the men’s and women’s basketball teams, volleyball, soccer, tennis and more. Check out all the teams’ home schedules.

Go hiking in Boulder

If you haven’t had a chance to go hiking in Boulder, add that to your list of things to do before you graduate. Boulder has dozens of hiking trails to choose from that are suitable for all abilities and fitness levels. You can take in the incredible scenery from above the city, including our campus’ unique architecture.

Become a journey leader

Give back and share your pride in CU by welcoming the next class of Buffs to Boulder. Journey leaders help new students and their families feel welcome at CU by answering questions, fostering a friendly and inclusive environment and building teamwork and leadership skills. Learn more about how to become a journey leader.

Go to Late Night Breakfast

Fuel your finals study efforts with free pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage and more at Late Night Breakfast. Held at the UMC before finals week of both the fall and spring semesters, Late Night Breakfast is a favorite tradition among students.

Join an intramural sports team

You don’t need to be an experienced athlete to have a great time, stay active and make new friends in intramural sports. Intramurals include traditional sports like hockey and pickleball, as well as fun non-traditional sports like xtreme dodgeball, wallyball or broomball. Grab some friends and create a team or join as a free agent.

Volunteer

Make a difference at CU and within the Boulder community by volunteering. Check out Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) for one-time and ongoing volunteer opportunities, or sign up for extended service trips through the SLICE’s Sko Serve program. CU’s Environmental Center offers additional volunteer and service opportunities related to sustainability.

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Fun ways to celebrate fall in Boulder

Anonymous — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Fun ways to celebrate fall in Boulder Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 09/23/2025 - 00:00

Fall has arrived in Boulder! Celebrate the change of season, meet new people and explore the city with these indoor and outdoor activities including football, food, crafts, entertainment and more.

CU Athletics

Nothing says fall like college athletics! Fall sports at CU Boulder include women's soccer, women's volleyball and men's football. Be sure to check out upcoming events to fuel your school spirit before you cheer on the Buffs.

Stop by the Student Game Day Huddle on Farrand Field before most home football games. There will be free food, giveaways, music and you can even be recognized as the Student Fan of the Game.
Head to downtown Boulder the night before each home football game for the Pearl Street Stampede, featuring the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Spirit Squad, coaches, players and more!
Mark your calendar for Homecoming weekend, Oct. 30-Nov. 1. There will be home games for soccer, volleyball and football, and other special events.

Get outside

Fall is the perfect time to explore the outdoors in and around Boulder as the weather cools off and the leaves begin to change.

Boulder has dozens of hiking trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Enjoy a great workout and take in Boulder’s incredible mountain scenery at the same time.
Want to experience the outdoors in a more structured setting? Outdoor Pursuits offers a variety of trips and classes for all experience levels, from hiking to rock climbing to fly fishing.
View the fall colors from Chautauqua, or take a drive on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway for a glimpse of changing leaves.

Activities on campus

You don’t have to leave campus to enjoy fall-themed events! Check out these things to do on campus.

Try a special fall-themed beverage from the seasonal menu at the WeatherTech Cafe & Bakery in the C4C. Options include the caramel apple butter chai toddy, toasty pumpkin cocoa, pumpkin spice boba and pumpkin spice latte.
Mingle with fellow Buffs while making crafts together at DIY Nights!
Enjoy late night fun at Buffalo Nites events where you’ll bowl at The Connection, create painted masterpieces and celebrate Pride Month this fall.
In the mood for a movie on the big screen? Stop by CHEM 140 for Program Council’s Friday Night Film Series.
Cozy Gaming offers a chance to unwind from the week while playing your favorite games or trying something new in good company!

Events around Boulder

Get outside and explore the city of Boulder at these fun events downtown.

Shop for fresh produce and other goods at the Boulder Farmers Market, held on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. through the end of November.
Downtown Boulder offers events all fall featuring arts and entertainment, live music, fitness events and more. Check the calendar for daily, monthly and seasonal events.

Halloween fun

If you love Halloween, there are many Halloween-specific events on campus through October. Check out these events as well as the Student Life events calendar for more.

Anderson Farms Terror in the Corn: Saturday, Oct. 18

Rave to the Grave: Friday, Oct. 24

Haunted Halls: Saturday, Oct. 25

Pumpkin Palooza: Tuesday, Oct. 28

Pumpkin Painting & Rocky Horror Watch Party: Wednesday, Oct. 29

Boogie & Bowling Bash: Thursday, Oct. 30

Humans vs. Zombies Lock In: Salvation of Liberty: Friday, Oct. 31

Learn more about getting involved by downloading the CU Boulder Life app and following @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Fall has arrived in Boulder! Celebrate the change of season, meet new people and explore the city with these indoor and outdoor activities including football, food, crafts, entertainment and more.

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Make your semester count: Gain skills and build networks

Emily Sampl — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:45:13 +0000

Make your semester count: Gain skills and build networks Emily Sampl Tue, 09/02/2025 - 11:45

Career Services

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The fall semester is a great time to build your resume and explore what kind of career you actually want. Employers love seeing real-world experience—like internships, hands-on projects or certifications—because it shows you’ve got motivation and gained skills and the drive.

Even better? These professional experiences help you figure out what kind of job fits you best and what kind of company you want to work for.

CU Boulder has tons of opportunities to help you level up. Whether you’re looking to gain experience for your resume, explore your interests or just get a head start, now’s the time to dive in.

Find an internship

According to a national survey, internship experience is the top thing employers look for when hiring. Why? Because it shows you’ve applied your skills in the real world.

Internships aren’t just resume boosters—they help you:

Build real-world skills

Make professional connections

�鶹��Ƶ what kind of work and workplace fits you best

As a Buff, you’ve got access to amazing tools to help you land internships like Handshake, internship credit options and specialized experiences. Handshake is your go-to platform for finding internships (many of which you won’t see anywhere else). Review these tips tailored to your major to make it easier.

You can also explore unique experiences like CU in D.C., Education Abroad and the Public Interest Internship Experience (PIIE) to find the right fit for your goals. And for more opportunities, check out the Find Your Internship workshops this fall.

Attend the Professional Experiences Showcase

Meet with programs and departments from across campus that are here to set you up for success at CU Boulder and beyond.

No experience? No problem! Whether you are interested in internships, jobs, research, entrepreneurship, finding mentors or so much more, this event has you covered!

Drop by anytime in UMC 235 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9. Pre-register and find out more on Handshake.

Try a job simulation

Job simulations let you experience a “day in the life” at top companies like Red Bull, The New York Times, Bank of America and more—without needing to apply or commit.

Through Forage, you can experience real-world tasks from major brands and industries, and You can explore your options before jumping into an internship or job. It’s a low-pressure way to:

Test-drive different careers

Build skills employers care about

See what kind of work excites you

Work on campus

CU Boulder hires thousands of students every semester, and on-campus jobs are more than just a paycheck. They offer:

Flexible work hours that fit your class schedule

Hands-on experience you can add to your resume

A chance to grow your professional network right here on campus

No matter your major or interests, there’s a job for you. Start exploring open positions on Handshake and see how working on campus can support your goals.

Volunteer

Volunteering isn’t just good for the community—it’s great for you, too. You’ll gain new skills, meet people and make a difference.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) can help you find opportunities that fit your schedule and interests, with flexible commitment levels and tons of ways to get involved.

Plus, volunteer experience can give you a major edge when applying for jobs or internships—especially with nonprofits or government agencies. Whether you're passionate about social change, sustainability, education or something else, there's a way to get involved and grow.

Set yourself up for success

Career Services helps students position themselves for success through workshops, events, training and other resources. Learn more about getting started with Career Services.

The fall semester is a great time to build your resume and explore what kind of career you actually want. Whether you’re looking to gain experience for your resume, explore your interests or just get a head start, now’s the time to dive in.

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Boost your college experience this semester

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 22:25:11 +0000

Boost your college experience this semester Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/28/2025 - 16:25

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College is a time to discover who you are, connect with others and develop skills that will last a lifetime. One of the best ways to unlock all the possibilities that CU Boulder has to offer is by getting involved, whether it’s through clubs, leadership programs, peer mentoring, volunteering or attending workshops. These experiences not only boost your academic journey but also help you find your people, cultivate new talents and prepare for life beyond graduation.

Learn beyond the classroom

Some of the most valuable lessons in college happen outside the classroom. When you join a student organization, participate in leadership roles or serve as a peer mentor, you’re gaining practical experience. You learn how to collaborate, communicate, solve problems and lead teams. These skills are just as crucial as what you learn in class—and often, they’re the ones employers want to see most.

Find your community

Getting involved can also be a great way to find your community on campus. Whether you’re passionate about social justice, art, sports, business or science, there’s likely a club or student group for you. These organizations become your support system, your second family and a source of friendships that last far beyond graduation.

Explore your options

Getting involved on campus allows you to pursue your favorite interests, or maybe even discover something unexpected that sparks joy and excitement. College is the time to experiment, so don’t hesitate to sign up for a club, activity or event that speaks to you or simply piques your curiosity. Here are some options to explore this semester:

Learn and connect: The Center for Cultural Connections & Community offers opportunities that focus on the value of diversity and social justice while supporting students with identity exploration and growth.

Volunteer: Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) connects students with real opportunities to create positive change.

Work on campus: Student on-campus jobs can help you get to know fellow Buffs, build professional skills and gain experience.

Join sustainability initiatives: At the Environmental Center, you can get hands-on with sustainability projects, learn about environmental advocacy and connect with like-minded students.

Participate in student organizations: Explore BuffConnect to find everything from academic clubs to creative groups—there’s something for everyone!

Lead: Apply for a leadership role, join a leadership program or consider joining CU Student Government. �鶹��Ƶ your strengths and make a tangible impact.

Balance involvement with academics

With so many exciting opportunities, you have the chance to create a fulfilling and vibrant campus experience. Finding balance will help you make the most of everything college has to offer. Prioritize your classes, but don’t be afraid to schedule time for activities that energize you and help you grow.

Make a plan: Use a calendar or planner to keep track of meetings, deadlines and personal time.

Set limits: Avoid joining too many things at once and focus on the few that matter most to you.

Communicate: If you’re struggling to balance commitments, talk to your professors, advisors or group leaders. Most are happy to help.

Take care of yourself: Prioritize sleep, nutrition and downtime. Your well-being matters!

College is a unique chapter in your life, and getting involved on campus opens doors to new friendships, perspectives and opportunities you might never find elsewhere. Whether you’re leading a club, mentoring a fellow student, volunteering for a cause or learning at a workshop, every step shapes your future. Your journey outside the classroom is just as important, and just as rewarding, as your academic success.

Learn about events, programs and ways to get involved this year:

Follow @CUBoulderLife and @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

Download the CU Boulder Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Check out upcoming student events of all kinds.

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4 ways volunteering can change your life

Anonymous — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

4 ways volunteering can change your life Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement

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College is all about exploring, growing, and figuring out what really matters to you. One of the best ways to do that? Volunteering. It’s not just about giving back. It’s a chance to learn new skills, meet people and make your time at CU Boulder even more meaningful.

Here are four ways volunteering can seriously level up your college experience.

Broaden your worldview

Volunteering gives you a front-row seat to the real challenges people face, and the strength they show in overcoming them. Whether you're stocking shelves at the Buff Pantry or helping host a celebration at a children’s hospital, you’ll connect with people from all walks of life and gain a deeper understanding of their experiences.

These moments can shift your perspective, build empathy and help you relate to others in more meaningful ways—both personally and professionally.

Get involved and make a difference

Once you start seeing the different issues affecting your community, you might feel inspired to take action. Volunteering can help you realize that you’re a vital part of something bigger.

For example, volunteering at a CU football game with Ralphie's Green Stampede to support zero waste initiatives can show you how your actions contribute to climate justice. When you feel empowered to help solve real-world problems, you’re not just making a difference—you’re shaping the future.

Find your place and your people

Feeling like you belong can make a huge difference in your college experience—socially, personally and even academically. Volunteering helps you plug into the CU Boulder community and gives you a sense of purpose beyond the classroom.

Whether you're walking dogs at an animal rescue or helping out at a local event, you’ll meet people who share your interests and values. These connections can spark new passions, build lasting friendships and help you feel like you’re truly part of something bigger.

Build skills for what’s next

Volunteering isn’t just good for your community. It’s also a smart move for your future. Like a campus job or internship, volunteering can help you grow your network, gain hands-on experience and build your resume with real-world skills.

For example, joining a Sko Serve program can sharpen your time management, teamwork and leadership abilities. Plus, showing commitment to volunteer work highlights your responsibility and gives you great stories to share in interviews and cover letters. It’s a powerful way to prepare for life after CU Boulder, and to become a confident, proactive leader along the way.

Ready to jump in? Here’s how to get started

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) is your go-to spot for finding ways to give back on campus and in the Boulder community. You can start small with one-time opportunities like donating blood, joining a donation drive or signing up for CU in the Community events.

Want something more long-term? Check out programs like Sko Serve, where you can dive deeper into causes you care about.

No matter your schedule or interests, there’s a way to get involved, grow and make a difference. Explore opportunities on CUServes or connect with SLICE to find your perfect fit.

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3 tips to make new friends this fall

Anonymous — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

3 tips to make new friends this fall Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00

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At college, there are countless ways to meet new people and build your community. Getting involved on campus—through programs, events or student organizations—can open the door to meaningful friendships. Here are some tips to help you make new friends this year.

1. Connect with others who share your interests

CU Boulder might feel like a large university at first, but finding your crew can make it feel a whole lot smaller. Whether you're into hiking, gaming, crafting or anything in between, there are tons of student groups, events and programs built around shared interests and identities.

Review these options to meet others with similar hobbies and interests. Also, don’t hesitate to try something new! College is a great time to discover new passions and explore your identity.

2. Be bold and introduce yourself

This semester, challenge yourself to be the one who says “hey” first. Whether it’s in class, at an event or just waiting in line for coffee, introducing yourself can be the spark that kicks off a great convo (and maybe a new friendship).

It might feel awkward at first, but most people are just waiting for someone to break the ice—why not let it be you? Here are a few places where you can try out this strategy:

Your residence hall or neighborhood
You never know what you might have in common with your floormates or neighbors! Whether you live on or off campus, make it a goal to connect with someone new each day. Ask them to join you for dinner, walk to class or check out a campus event or an event in your residence hall together.

Student events
Events like Buffalo Nites, Buffs After Dark and Queer Cheer are great for socializing and getting to know others. Introduce yourself to those around you, ask where they are from and what their favorite class is this semester.

Extracurricular activities
Depending on what you do with your time outside of class, there are many other ways to make friends. Consider joining a student organization, working on campus or volunteering. If you meet someone new and hit it off, ask if they want to hang out later.

3. Know that it can take time

Finding your people doesn’t always happen overnight, and that’s okay. You can take small steps every day to build connections and feel more at home on campus. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Focus on the positives: When you meet someone new, focus on what you have in common—whether it’s a shared hobby, sense of humor, or just the same favorite study spot.

Make space for social time: School comes first, but don’t forget to take breaks and hang out. Events, clubs or even a quick chat between classes can go a long way.

Keep showing up: Deep friendships take time. Even if you’re just saying hey to someone in class or at the Rec Center, those small moments can grow into something more.

Find support

Center for Student Involvement
Join student organizations, find leadership opportunities and learn about other ways to get involved at the Center for Student Involvement.

Peer Wellness Coaching
Connect with fellow students for one-on-one conversations about well-being, goal setting and navigating college life.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement
Learn new skills, gain experience, make a difference and meet people with similar passions through volunteering.

Recreation Services
Try new fitness classes, play intramural sports, explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits or attend an Inclusive Rec event.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community
Engage with programs that build community, inspire learning and grow leaders who value identity, diversity, equity and social justice.

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What to do after the Be Involved Fair

Anonymous — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What to do after the Be Involved Fair Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00

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Whether you were able to attend the Be Involved Fair this semester or not, there’s still plenty of time to meet people and create your own campus experience.

Getting involved opens doors to fresh opportunities, unforgettable adventures and new friends—so get ready to shape your story and discover everything CU Boulder has to offer!

Browse BuffConnect

With over 500 student organizations on campus, there’s something for everyone. Use BuffConnect to explore your interests and find an organization to join. You can also learn about leadership opportunities and discover upcoming events on BuffConnect.

An easy way to explore all student organizations at CU Boulder is by searching through categories. Here are some examples of categories you’ll find in BuffConnect:

Recreation and wellness

Business

Gaming

Cultural and international

Social

Environmental

Engineering and technology

Social justice and advocacy

Religion and spirituality

Art, music and entertainment

Community service and volunteerism

You can also search organizations by topic or keyword or view the entire list alphabetically. Start by searching for some of your favorite hobbies or interests, or search by skills or talents you’d like to explore.

Take the first step

Student organizations are run by students, just like you, who want to connect with others who share similar interests. When you find an organization on BuffConnect you’d like to join, you can view their contact information, social media accounts and meeting times by clicking their BuffConnect profile. Send them an email or check out their social media page to ask about joining.

Try it out

If you’re interested in a student organization, attend one of their meetings to get to know other members and see what it’s like. It’s OK to go to a meeting and decide it’s not the right fit for you. Just because you attend one meeting or program does not mean you have to join.

Explore other ways to get involved

In addition to joining a student organization, there are many other options to meet people and experience new things. Here are some options to explore:

Participate in Intramural Sports, Sport Clubs or Outdoor Pursuits.

Check out volunteer opportunities.

Join the Sustainable Buffs Community.

Work in Student Life.

Attend campus events for students.

Consider joining Fraternity & Sorority Life.

Stay connected

Learn about events, programs and ways to get involved this year:

Follow @CUBoulderLife and @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

Download the CU Boulder Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Check out upcoming student events of all kinds.

Whether you were able to attend the Be Involved Fair this semester or not, there’s still plenty of time to meet people and create your own campus experience. Getting involved opens doors to fresh opportunities, unforgettable adventures and new friends—so get ready to shape your story and discover everything CU Boulder has to offer!

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Get Involved

Being a Buff: How to make your CU Boulder experience truly yours

Get involved and connected

Support your local community

�鶹��Ƶ what makes CU Boulder one-of-a-kind

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Meet Buffs with similar hobbies

Sports and fitness

Esports and gaming

Outdoor adventures

Music and entertainment

Crafting and art

Social justice, advocacy and activism

For more ways to get involved and meet others:

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Attend a CU Athletics event

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Join an intramural sports team

Volunteer

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Work on campus

Volunteer

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Boost your college experience this semester

Learn beyond the classroom

Find your community

Explore your options

Balance involvement with academics

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Broaden your worldview

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Find your place and your people

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Ready to jump in? Here’s how to get started

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Find support

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What to do after the Be Involved Fair

Browse BuffConnect

Take the first step

Try it out

Explore other ways to get involved

Stay connected

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