Get Involved

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

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

��Ƶ18 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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How to get ready for game day

Emily Sampl — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How to get ready for game day Emily Sampl Tue, 09/02/2025 - 00:00

The CU Buffs will take on Delaware at Folsom Field on Sept. 6. 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, Sept. 5 | 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, Sept. 6 | 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Farrand Field

The Student Game Day Huddle is a tailgate tradition where students can come cheer on the Buffs before CU’s home games. There will be free food, giveaways, games, music and a chance to walk on to Folsom Field if you are 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 either black or white: The first home game of the season is a stripe out—find your section’s color to wear.

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 Delaware at Folsom Field on Sept. 6. 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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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. ��Ƶ18 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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Unlock your leadership potential

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Unlock your leadership potential Valerie Padilla Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00

There are many ways to be a leader in your community and plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills. Here are a few ways to gain leadership experience this semester.

Take on a leadership role

Get hands-on experience while developing leadership skills with these opportunities.

Sko Serve site leader: Plan and lead a service trip for students over spring break.

Resident advisors (RA): Live and work in the residence halls to support other students while creating an inclusive community and making a difference in Residence Life.

Journey leaders: Help welcome new Buffs to campus! You can gain valuable leadership experience while meeting new people and getting involved.

ASAP tutor mentor: Work with students living in the residence halls and first-year students in paid tutoring positions.

Most student organizations, fraternities and sororities also have leadership roles for students to fill. These roles offer a chance to develop various skills and experiences you can use well after your time at CU Boulder. Browse BuffConnect to explore student organizations by topic or alphabetical list.

Join a leadership program

These programs allow you to gain leadership experience and meet fellow Buffs.

CU GOLD: Develop leadership skills through several leadership program paths and opportunities.

Bloom: Peer mentors and mentees will share tips, support each other’s goals and help each other thrive!

Climate Justice Leadership Alliance: Work with other students, faculty and staff to develop and implement campus and community actions for climate justice.

Work on campus

On-campus jobs are a convenient way to gain experience, earn money and build leadership skills. There are many student job roles with some positions offering opportunities to take on more responsibility over time. Search for on-campus jobs on Handshake.

Participate on a student board or committee

Use your voice and help make decisions that affect our campus community. Here are some opportunities to consider.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Board: Develop programs and educational opportunities to enrich the campus experience for CU Boulder students.

Cultural Events Board: Broaden cultural knowledge by supporting the voices of underrepresented and misrepresented groups on campus to promote student engagement with their platforms.

CU Student Government (CUSG): Serve your peers, make a difference and leave your mark at CU Boulder by participating in student government.

CUSG Recreation Board: Promote the improvement of the Recreation Center and the university community through planning and positive action.

Distinguished Speakers Board: Bring well-known speakers to campus and develop your skills in planning and implementing large-scale events.

Environmental Center Board: Advocate for campus environmental policy, determine funding for innovative sustainability projects, get practical experience and more.

National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH): Provide recognition for students and staff in the residence halls who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and who have made outstanding service contributions to their communities, CU and beyond.

Residence Hall Association (RHA): Foster and facilitate community among on-campus residents and promote a safe and comfortable living environment.

Senior Class Council: Keep seniors informed and involved while building pride, tradition and community among the graduating class.

UMC Board: Create policy, develop creative solutions to challenging issues and grow your leadership skills.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement Joint Board: Through policy making, leadership and outreach, being part of the SLICE Board can help you advocate for and provide services to meet campus and community needs.

Look out for your fellow Buffs

Being a leader on campus can be more than joining a program or holding a position in your student organization. Our Colorado Creed reminds us that we build character based on our decisions and actions toward others. If you see something concerning, don’t hesitate to call for help. Know how to be an effective bystander and look out for other community members.

Gaining leadership skills and experience to add to your resume can help when looking for a job or internship. Learn more about how to build professional skills and experience with Career Services.

Learn more about getting involved this fall:

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

Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Check out upcoming student events.

There are many ways to be a leader in your community and plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills. Here are a few ways to gain leadership experience this semester.

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Meet Buffs with similar hobbies

Anonymous — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:00:41 +0000

Meet Buffs with similar hobbies Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 08/26/2025 - 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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Make the most of the Be Involved Fair

Anonymous — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 17:27:27 +0000

Make the most of the Be Involved Fair Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 08/15/2025 - 11:27

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Looking to meet new people this year? Want to find different ways to get involved in your community?

Stop by the annual Be Involved Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 2-6 p.m. on Farrand Field. Hosted by the Center for Student Involvement (CSI) and Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE), this event is your chance to learn about the hundreds of ways to get involved on campus and in the Boulder community. You can meet with CU Boulder student organizations and local nonprofit organizations. It’s the best place to find all sorts of opportunities!

Reasons to attend

Whether it’s your first or final year at CU Boulder, the Be Involved Fair offers a chance to enhance your college experience. Here are some tips to make the most of the fair, depending on where you are in your academic journey.

New Buffs and transfer students

Check out student organizations and programs that match your interests.

Visit different booths or tables to discuss involvement opportunities with representatives.

Meet new people and enjoy a fun afternoon at Farrand Field.

Step outside your comfort zone and explore new activities to expand your skills and broaden your interests.

Returning students and graduate students

Find opportunities to gain professional experience that you could add to your resume.

Consider programs that can help you gain leadership skills.

Find something to specialize in or where you excel.

Join something for fun to meet new people, try something new and balance out your academic life.

Prepare for the fair

Plan before you go so you can meet with the organizations you are most interested in. Bring your Buff OneCard and schedule to ensure meeting times don’t overlap with your other commitments. Also, leave time to stop and explore groups and programs not on your list. You may find new and exciting opportunities you didn’t even know existed.

Research

Before the fair, learn about the organizations and groups attending.

Browse BuffConnect to learn about student organizations at CU Boulder.

Take the Involvement Quiz to understand what organizations match your interests.

Make a list of organizations you’d like to meet at the fair.

Set goals

Consider what you want to accomplish at the fair and take note of your goals.

Do you hope to meet people and make friends?

Do you want to gain experience or learn skills to add to your resume?

Do you want to spend time on hobbies or interests?

Ask questions

Come up with questions to ask representatives and determine whether an opportunity is a good fit for you.

What does your organization do?

What does it look like being a part of your organization?

What kind of time commitment is required?

When do you meet?

Where are you located?

How can I sign up to get involved?

Whatever your goals are for getting involved on campus, the Be Involved Fair can be the best place to start. Learn more about getting involved this fall:

Check out upcoming student events.

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

Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Looking to meet new people this year? Want to find different ways to get involved in your community? Stop by the annual Be Involved Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 2-6 p.m. on Farrand Field.

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Conquer your commute: 4 tips for students

Emily Sampl — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 22:00:50 +0000

Conquer your commute: 4 tips for students Emily Sampl Thu, 08/14/2025 - 16:00

Off-Campus Life

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Whether you live two or 20 miles from campus, here are four tips to make commuting smoother this semester.

Explore transportation options

All enrolled CU students can use their Buff OneCard to access RTD bus and rail routes. Learn more about how to ride the bus or find a park-n-ride near you. Download the Transit app for routes and real-time transit information to stay informed if there are delays or cancellations.

With many sunny and warm days during Colorado winters, commuting by bike can also be an option for getting around campus and Boulder. If you plan to use your bike on campus, register it at one of the bike stations. Registering your bike gives you free access to the campus bike stations, including bike maintenance assistance.

Boulder's bike-sharing program, BCycle, offers electric assist bikes around town, including locations near many bus stops. As a student, you get a free BCycle membership through the Environmental Center!

Know about weather closures or delays

Our campus may experience delays or closures due to inclement weather. Students receive email notifications through the campus alert system, and you can add your phone number in Buff Portal to get CU Alerts by text message.

Navigating transportation issues as a commuting student can occasionally interfere with class schedules. If you're delayed, contact your professors as soon as you know you’ll be late or miss class. Explain your situation and ask about ways to make up for missed work.

Check out campus dining options

With 15 on-campus dining locations, you have many options for meals or snacks between classes. Download the Nutrislice app or use the Nutrislice website to view menus and filter for allergens, dietary restrictions and preferences.

On-campus dining locations accept Campus Cash and credit or debit cards. Block Meal Plans are available with different numbers of meals per semester to all students living off campus and in Bear Creek or Graduate and Family Housing.

For more tips, review our complete guide to eating on campus.

Join the Beyond Campus Buffs community

Depending on your schedule, you may have downtime between classes or other commitments on campus. Beyond Campus Buffs offers monthly events and resources for undergraduate students living off campus.

The Commuter Lounge in the University Memorial Center (UMC) offers students who travel to campus access to free amenities, including:

Free coffee

Printing

Refrigerator access

Microwave access

Lockers

Lounge space

The lounge is also staffed by beyond campus advisors. Beyond campus advisors are students who have experience commuting to campus and are available to answer questions.

First-year students can access the lounge automatically. If you’re a returning undergraduate commuter, complete this form to gain access to the lounge and learn about events for commuter students. The lounge is available to undergraduate students only.

Want to learn more about student life and getting involved on campus? Download the CU Boulder Life app and follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Whether you live two or 20 miles from campus, here are four tips to make commuting smoother this semester.

Traditional

White

Get Involved

Make your semester count: Gain skills and build networks

Find an internship

Try a job simulation

Work on campus

Volunteer

Set yourself up for success

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Join the Beyond Campus Buffs community

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