Student Life

Your end-of-semester checklist

Valerie Padilla — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:03:32 +0000

Your end-of-semester checklist Valerie Padilla Tue, 10/28/2025 - 11:03

The finish line is in sight, and the end of the fall semester is almost here! Whether you’re in your first or final year at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, here’s a checklist to help you close out the semester.

Get organized

Between final exams and end-of-semester papers and projects coming up, many students may feel busier than usual. Review these tips to help you get centered and ready for finals:

Finals prep: Tips to finish strong

Balance classes, work and life like a pro

Find your study spot

AI and the Honor Code: 3 things to know

5 things to know about study drugs

Beat the study slump: How to boost your comfort and focus

Be sure to check out colorado.edu/finals for more tips and resources.

Take breaks, fuel up and stay connected

There will be many events coming up that allow Buffs to take study breaks, enjoy free food, de-stress and have fun. Here are some to check out:

Dec. 1: Preparing for Finals Workshop

Dec. 1: Cozy Coloring Pages

Dec. 2: Jazz & Cocoa

Dec. 3: Late Night Breakfast

Dec. 5: Will Vill Breakfast Boxes

Dec. 6-12: Finals Week at The Rec

Dec. 8: Therapy Dogs

Dec. 10: Create a Creature

Find support

It’s never too late to ask for help if you need it! Take advantage of academic and non-academic resources available to students to help you prepare for the end of the semester:

Check out tutoring, help labs and other learning resources to support you and your academic success.

Find mental health support with Counseling & Psychiatric Services.

Get assistance with family emergencies, hospitalization or other extenuating circumstances through Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support.

Connect with the Basic Needs Center if you’re experiencing food or housing insecurities.

Save the date

If you’re looking to join something new in the spring semester, take note of these events and upcoming deadlines:

Visit the On-Campus Student Job Fair on Jan. 15: Looking for a part-time job? Meet with campus departments who are hiring student employees at this fair.

Attend the Be Involved Fair on Jan. 21: Meet with hundreds of student organizations and learn about how to get involved on campus!

Apply for the Sko Serve Spring Break Program by Jan. 30: Sko Serve sends teams of college students to engage in meaningful service during their breaks from school. Applications are open from Nov. 10 through Jan. 30.

Check out the Spring Volunteer Fair on Feb. 3: Get involved in your community, learn new skills and make connections through volunteering! Meet local organizations with volunteer opportunities at this event.

Learn more about getting involved:

Download the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Follow @CUBoulderLife and @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

Check out upcoming student events.

The finish line is in sight and the end of the fall semester is almost here! Whether you are in your first or final year at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, here’s a checklist to help you close out the semester.

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How to get ready for game day

Emily Sampl — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How to get ready for game day Emily Sampl Mon, 10/27/2025 - 00:00

Celebrate Homecoming and watch the CU Buffs take on Arizona on Nov. 1. 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

Homecoming Parade, Stampede and Pep Rally

Friday, Oct. 31 | 6:30 p.m. | Duane Field

Get ready for game day at a special on-campus Homecoming parade and pep rally. Cheer on the Buffs with fellow fans, the Golden Buffs Marching Band, Spirit Squad and Chip!

Student Game Day Huddle

Saturday, Nov. 1 | 2-4 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 CU gear: Show off your Buff pride!

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 Arizona at Folsom Field on Nov. 1. 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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Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget

Anonymous — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 18:57:24 +0000

Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 10/24/2025 - 12:57

Basic Needs Center

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Grocery shopping doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning, you can eat well, save money and make the most of your time. Here are some easy tips to help you shop smarter and stretch your food budget.

Plan your meals ahead

Before heading to the store, make a weekly meal plan. Include breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Planning helps you avoid impulse buys and food waste.

Pro tip: Use leftovers! Turn last night’s dinner into lunch or remix ingredients into a new dish—like turning leftover veggies into soup or stir-fry.

Use coupons and store deals

Check your grocery store’s app or website for weekly deals and digital coupons. Match your meal plan to what’s on sale to save even more.

Compare prices by unit

Don’t just look at the sticker price—check the price per unit (like per ounce or per pound). Bigger packages often cost less per unit and save money over time.

Try plant-based options

Meat can be pricey. Try adding plant-based proteins like beans, lentils or tofu to your meals. They’re affordable, filling and packed with nutrients.

Upgrade simple meals

Make budget meals better with easy add-ins. Toss veggies and protein into instant noodles, or top cereal with frozen berries or banana slices for extra flavor and nutrition.

Share with roommates

Split the cost of kitchen staples like milk, butter or coffee. You can also take turns cooking dinner and share meals to save time and money—just make sure everyone’s on board with the plan.

Swap for cheaper items

Here are some smart swaps to cut costs:

Buy whole foods: A block of cheese is usually cheaper than shredded.

Go generic: Store brands often match name brands in quality but cost less.

Choose seasonal produce: In-season fruits and veggies are fresher and cheaper.

Pick frozen produce: Frozen fruits and veggies are budget-friendly and last longer.

Buy in bulk: Stock up on dry goods like rice, pasta or oats.

Use canned foods: Canned beans, tomatoes and veggies are versatile and affordable—just watch for added sodium.

With these strategies, you’ll be able to make your grocery budget go further while still enjoying tasty, nutritious meals throughout the semester.

Find support

If you're looking for ways to stretch your food budget or need help accessing nutritious meals, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� and our local community offer several free and low-cost resources.

Basic Needs Center

The Basic Needs Center connects students with essential support, including access to nutritious food.

Buff Pantry: Students can pick up fresh produce, pantry staples, frozen items and personal care products.

Mobile Food Pantries: Free pop-up pantries are available for CU students, faculty, staff and Boulder/Broomfield community members.

Ralphie’s Cooking Basics: Learn easy, budget-friendly recipes at free cooking classes.

Nutrition Services

Need help with healthy eating? Students can book a free appointment with a registered dietitian on campus. Get personalized advice on topics like meal planning, dietary needs and more.

Community Food Share

Community Food Share is a local food bank serving Boulder and Broomfield counties. They offer a free on-site food pantry, emergency food assistance and mobile food pantries.

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Last-minute tips before Halloween

Anonymous — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Last-minute tips before Halloween Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 10/21/2025 - 00:00

Whether you’re planning the ultimate costume or just looking for something fun to do, here are some helpful Halloween tips and reminders to make the most of the season.

Find last-minute costumes at thrift stores

Still need a costume? Check out Boulder’s best thrift stores for affordable and creative Halloween costume ideas. Thrift and secondhand shops are perfect for finding one-of-a-kind pieces without breaking the bank. Some even offer Halloween sales and discounts!

As you plan your look, be thoughtful about your costume choices. Avoid costumes that rely on cultural stereotypes or symbols. Acknowledging and being mindful of cultural appropriation can help us create a more welcoming and inclusive community for all Buffs.

Discover Halloween events on campus

Looking for things to do this Halloween? From movie nights to fall festivals, there’s something for everyone.

Halloween at The Rec | Oct. 16-31

Rave to the Grave | Oct. 24

Haunted Halls | Oct. 25

Pumpkin Palooza | Oct. 28

Buffs Party Smart | Oct. 29

Pumpkin Painting & Rocky Horror Watch Party | Oct. 29

“Hill”oween | Oct. 30

Boogie & Bowling Bash | Oct. 30

Safer Night Out | Oct. 31

Friday Night Film Series: Kiki’s Delivery Service | Oct. 31

Creatures of the Night Halloween Hike | Oct. 31

If you’re looking for more ways to get involved, consider volunteering to help make Halloween events a success! Lend a hand at Haunted Halls or join the crew for Humans vs. Zombies on Oct. 31—it's a great way to meet people, give back and have fun while celebrating the season.

Download the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Life app to explore upcoming student events and more Halloween activities on campus.

Get home safely with CU NightRide

No matter how you celebrate, make a plan to get home safely. CU NightRide offers free, late-night rides for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students, faculty and staff within Boulder city limits. Just download the CU NightRide app from the App Store or Google Play to request a ride.

Outside city limits? Use your Buff OneCard to ride RTD buses and trains for free. The Transit app helps you track buses like the HOP in real time—download it to plan your route.

Hosting a party? Lower your chances of getting a ticket

Want to host a party without worrying about noise complaints or getting a nuisance ticket? Register your party with Off-Campus Life to get a 20-minute warning if a noise complaint is made. That gives you time to wrap things up before police arrive.

If you do get a ticket, Student Legal Services can help you navigate next steps.

Party smart

If you choose to drink or use other substances, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Plan ahead: Know where you’re going, who you’re with and how you’ll get home.

Set limits: Decide how much you’ll drink or use—and stick to it.

Stay together: Don’t leave friends behind. Check in and regroup if you get separated.

Eat and hydrate: Have a meal before going out and snack throughout the night.

Know your servings: One drink = 1.5 oz liquor, 5 oz wine or 12 oz beer.

Don’t mix: Avoid combining alcohol with prescription or other drugs.

Recognize alcohol poisoning: Learn the signs and how to use the recovery position.

Carry naloxone: It can reverse opioid overdoses. Pick up free or discounted naloxone and fentanyl test strips at Health Promotion (Wardenburg, third floor) and order the Safer Night Out Buff Box.

Check out more party smart tips to stay safe and have fun.

Want to learn more about your habits? Take a quick, anonymous quiz for alcohol or cannabis to get personalized, non-judgmental feedback about your use.

Look out for each other

We all play a role in keeping our community safe. Here’s how you can help:

Watch for red flags like pressuring others to drink, isolating someone or touching without consent.

Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is. It’s okay to leave or help someone else exit a situation.

In an emergency, call 911. The Amnesty Policy and Good Samaritan Law help protect students who call for help in alcohol- or drug-related emergencies.

Learn more about how to look out for your friends and support fellow Buffs.

Wishing all Buffs a fun, safe and memorable Halloween. Enjoy the season and take care of one another!

Whether you’re planning the ultimate costume or just looking for something fun to do, here are some helpful Halloween tips and reminders to make the most of the season.

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Tips for next year’s housing search

Emily Sampl — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Tips for next year’s housing search Emily Sampl Tue, 10/21/2025 - 00:00

Off-Campus Life

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Now is a great time to start planning your housing for next year! Whether you’re moving off campus for the first time or you already know your way around the Boulder and Denver areas, check out these tips from Off-Campus Life to help you get started.

Attend the Fall Housing Fair

Stop by the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom on Wednesday, Nov. 19, and explore options at the Fall Housing Fair. Property managers, city offices and vendors will attend, and you can ask questions and explore more resources related to living in Boulder. There are always lots of free giveaways and food!

Explore different options

Check out different neighborhoods and housing options to see what fits your lifestyle and budget. Some favorite spots for students in Boulder are The Hill, Martin Acres, East Aurora, Goss Grove and North Boulder. You might also want to look into places in nearby cities like Longmont, Superior, Louisville or Lafayette—these areas have bus routes that make getting to campus easy.

Figure out your budget by adding up rent, utilities, internet and other costs so you know what you can afford.

See what public transportation is available for your commute.

Check out crime stats for any area you’re considering.

Talk to other students about what it’s like living in different neighborhoods.

Use Ralphie’s List to search for places by neighborhood, city, price and more—plus, it’s a great way to find roommates. As you consider who you’ll live with next year, be sure to review the city of Boulder's update on occupancy limits.

Consider transportation needs

When you’re checking out different neighborhoods and cities, make sure to figure out how you’ll get to campus. Take a look at the public transportation options to see what works best for you.

If you have a Buff OneCard, you can hop on the bus for free! RTD public transit offers routes that cover Boulder and nearby towns, making it easy to get to class.

Get free legal advice

A lease is a legal contract that students should understand before signing. Before signing a lease, you can schedule an appointment with attorney Bruce Sarbaugh through Off-Campus Life for a free lease review before signing. Students can also get free legal advice on other rental concerns, from lease agreements to landlord disputes.

Find support

Off-Campus Life is here to help you navigate living off campus. They offer resources and support to make your housing experience easier—whether you need advice about your rights as a renter, help with landlord or roommate issues or just want to learn more about being a good neighbor. You can visit their office at UMC 313 or send an email to offcampuslife@colorado.edu for tips. If you want firsthand advice about living in Boulder, connect with a neighborhood ambassador to hear from someone who’s been there.

Looking for more support while living off campus or commuting to campus? Beyond Campus Buffs is designed especially for first-year students and commuters. Drop by the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102 to meet other students and get helpful info.

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Being a Buff: How to make your ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� experience truly yours

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

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

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Being a Buff means more than just wearing black and gold—it’s about embracing curiosity, community and pride in everything you do. At ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, 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 ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� 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.

Discover what makes ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� 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, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� 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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5 pro tips to prepare for ski and snowboard season

Anonymous — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:15:18 +0000

5 pro tips to prepare for ski and snowboard season Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 10/09/2025 - 15:15

Rec Center

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Snow is just around the corner, and that means it’s almost time to visit the mountains. Whether you're new to the slopes or a seasoned shredder, here are some tips to help you prepare and stay stoked.

1. Get your gear ready

As ski and snowboard season approaches, getting your winter sports gear ready is essential for a safe and fun mountain adventure. Before you hit the slopes, make sure your equipment is in top shape so you can ride with confidence all season long.

Must-have items

Helmet: Safety first! Keeps your head warm and protected.

Goggles or sunglasses: Shield your eyes from snow glare and UV rays.

Neck gaiter: Stay cozy in cold, windy conditions.

Sunscreen: Yes, even in winter. Snow reflects sunlight!

Layers: Dress smart with moisture-wicking and waterproof gear.

Gloves and warmers: Dry hands = happy hands.

Water and snacks: Stay fueled and hydrated all day.

Ski pass: Save money with student discounts from Ikon or Epic.

Missing some gear?

No worries! Rent items like insulated pants, jackets and snow gloves from the Outdoor Pursuits Equipment Rental Center. You can also rent items from local stores, borrow from friends or shop secondhand to save cash.

Check your stuff

Give your gear a quick inspection:

Look for tears, broken zippers or worn-out boots.

Test bindings and check goggles for scratches.

Tune up your board or skis—Outdoor Pursuits even offers a $10 waxing workshop!

2. Start training

Don’t let sore legs or fatigue ruin your day on the mountain! Preseason training is key to staying strong, avoiding injuries and making the most of ski and snowboard season.

Start early. Begin training six to eight weeks before ski season for the best results.

Focus on strength, balance, cardio and endurance. Mix it up across your workouts.

Train two to three times a week. Consistency beats intensity.

Modify as needed. Listen to your body and adjust exercises to fit your level.

Need help getting started? The Rec Center offers small group training classes focused on mobility, strength, flexibility and total body workouts. Led by certified personal trainers, these sessions are perfect for building ski-ready fitness with personalized support.

3. Find your crew

Looking for people to ride with this season? ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� has many student clubs to help you connect, shred and explore the mountains together.

Boulder Freeride: This student organization organizes ski trips all semester long. Open to all skill levels.

Backcountry Squatters: Builds community for women in the outdoors with trips, clinics and hangouts.

Backcountry Club: Perfect for students interested in learning or advancing their backcountry skiing skills.

Snowboarding & Freeskiing Sport Clubs: Want to compete? These Sport Clubs train and race against other colleges.

Browse more student organizations on BuffConnect.

4. Explore transit options

Hate driving in I-70 traffic? You’re not alone. Save time and stress by using these student-friendly ski transit options:

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Ski Bus: Ride to resorts like A-Basin, Winter Park and Copper for just $20 ($10 for Herd members). Stops at Williams Village, Kittredge and Farrand Field.

Snowstang RTD Shuttles: Affordable roundtrip rides to Loveland, Copper, Breckenridge and A-Basin. Tickets range from $25–$40.

5. Go easy on yourself

Learning to ski or snowboard can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time out or you haven’t hit the slopes in a while. Start on beginner runs to get comfortable with the basics and your gear. Focus on skills like turning, stopping (without your poles if you’re a skier), getting on and off the lift solo, and controlling your speed. Many ski resorts also offer lessons to help you get more comfortable.

Once you’ve got the hang of those, you can start exploring more of the mountain. Don’t feel pressured to jump to advanced runs—pushing your limits is good, but know when to dial it back. Attempting a black diamond before you’re ready can put you and others at risk. Always know your limits, stick to marked trails and ride in control.

Remember, terrain like chutes, trees and backcountry spots can be risky if you’re not experienced. Always hit these areas with a buddy and keep an eye on each other. That way, if someone gets injured, stuck in a tree well or just needs help, you’re both covered.

Find support

Make the most of your ski season by taking advantage of resources available on campus. There are various options to help you prepare for the season and overcome potential setbacks.

Physical therapy and sports medicine
Medical Services has a sports medicine and physical therapy team that can help treat symptoms related to sports and physical activity, including concussion care. Consider scheduling an appointment before the season starts to build strength and prevent injuries.

Personal training
Work with a certified personal trainer to develop a sport-specific training regimen. Training options include personal and partner training as well as adaptive training for all levels and abilities.

Sports massage
Massage can help to stretch out and manipulate scar tissue to minimize the risk of a repeat injury. It’s also a great way to replenish muscles with improved blood supply for better healing.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be an integral part of your wellness and can be helpful in treating muscle or joint pain, and more.

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How to talk to others with a different point of view

Anonymous — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:25:24 +0000

How to talk to others with a different point of view Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 10/09/2025 - 10:25

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

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Having conversations with people who have different perspectives can be a great opportunity to learn and grow, especially in college when you’re developing your own opinions.

By listening and understanding where someone else is coming from, you give yourself the chance to learn new things, find common ground and become a better person. And if you find that you disagree with someone, talking it out is an essential skill that can help build trust and strengthen relationships.

Here are some ways to turn a difficult conversation into a thoughtful discussion.

Approach conversations with an open mind

College is a great place to consider new ideas and hear different viewpoints. When you listen with genuine curiosity and let others share their thoughts, you’re giving yourself the chance to learn more and see things from new angles.

Remember, everyone’s background and life story affects how they see the world—including yours! Take some time to think about how your beliefs and opinions came to be, and stay open to learning how someone else’s experiences have shaped their views, too.

Prioritize listening

During a conversation, it can be common for people to think about their response while the other person is talking, instead of fully paying attention to what’s being said. Conversations aren’t about “winning” or proving someone wrong—they’re about exploring different ideas together.

Try to listen with the goal of understanding, and not just to respond. Setting the intention to listen will help you approach conversation more openly rather than coming to it with set points and arguments.

When someone’s talking, give them your full attention. Ask questions if you’re not sure what they mean, and genuinely encourage them to share more about their perspective. This approach can make you a better communicator, and it helps others feel valued and listened to—which is key for having honest, open conversations.

Practice effective communication strategies

Having good communication skills can help direct the conversation in a productive way. Here are some skills to use when talking with someone with a different perspective:

Be mindful. If someone feels passionate about a topic, it may bring up strong feelings. But remember, you can only control what you say and how you say it, so tone and demeanor matter. Arguing may feel satisfying in the moment, but it’s often an ineffective communication tool.

Ask open-ended questions. Get curious about where the other person is coming from, and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of how the person has come to their perspective.

Use reflections to clarify. Restating what you think someone is saying gives them a chance to clear up any confusion or explain more about what they mean. You don’t have to agree with them to show you’re making an effort to understand where they’re coming from.

Acknowledge different perspectives. Whether someone agrees with another person’s position or not, they can acknowledge or affirm what is important to them and the values that form their perspective. Recognizing a shared value (such as caring for others, autonomy, honesty or integrity) that underlies a viewpoint can be a way of bridging differences.

Before you share your own thoughts, try to repeat back what you understood the other person is saying. This shows you’re listening and makes them feel heard. When you respond, use “and” instead of “but” to connect your ideas. For example, you could say, “I understand where you’re coming from, and I have a different point of view. Here’s how I see it...” Using “and” helps keep the conversation open and respectful, so the other person doesn’t feel shut down or defensive.

Remember, it’s okay if you don’t resolve every difference in one conversation. You can always leave space to revisit the issue later, allowing everyone time to reflect and return with a fresh perspective. Most importantly, end your discussion with appreciation for the other person’s willingness to talk things through—expressing gratitude builds trust and keeps the lines of communication open for the future.

Find support

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� offers programs and spaces for people to share their perspectives and learn skills to have thoughtful conversations.

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR)
SCCR helps students develop skills for having challenging conversations through conflict coaching, mediation and consultation services.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community
The Center offers various events, programs and groups where students, faculty and staff can join fellow Buffs to share their experiences and learn from others in a welcoming space.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI)
CSI offers resources for student activism and guidance for Buffs looking to get more involved in civic engagement.

CU Student Government (CUSG)
CUSG, the official governing and representative body of the student population, provides a space for Buffs to bring attention to and respectfully discuss issues they are passionate about.

Office of Institutional Equity & Compliance (OIEC)
OIEC offers skills-based workshops for students, faculty and staff to effectively work across differences and build healthy workplaces, classrooms and relationships.

Having conversations with people who have different perspectives can be a great opportunity to learn and grow, especially in college when you’re developing your own opinions. Here are some ways to turn what may be a difficult conversation into a thoughtful discussion.

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Off-campus housing: When should you start your search?

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 17:18:05 +0000

Off-campus housing: When should you start your search? Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 10/06/2025 - 11:18

Off-Campus Life

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If you're thinking about living off campus next year, you might feel pressure to sign a lease super early—but you don’t have to rush! In fact, giving yourself more time can help you make smarter choices and avoid overpaying.

Here’s why waiting to start your housing search can work in your favor:

You’ll have a better idea of your future plans (study abroad, class locations, internships, etc.)

You’ll have time to find ideal roommates

More housing options pop up in the spring semester

You might see better deals as the new school year gets closer

You can tour properties and get your lease reviewed for free by a legal advisor

Check out this recommended housing search timeline from Off-Campus Life.

October–December

This time of the year is known for “early leasing,” and Buffs, you don’t need to sign a lease this early. You’re still settling into your current housing, your needs and preferences might change, and prices are usually the highest during this time.

Our Fall Housing Fair will be Wednesday, Nov. 19 in the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom, giving you the chance to start exploring your options for next year. You can meet with dozens of landlords and property managers, learn about available properties and enjoy free pizza and prizes!

January–May

The spring semester is the best time for most students to complete their housing search.

Tons of rental options become available, and you’ll have a better idea of what you want and who you want to live with.

Our Spring Housing Fair will take place Wednesday, March 4. Like the fall fair, you’ll have the chance to meet with property managers and learn about available properties. You can explore listings on Ralphie’s List.

June-August

If you’re still looking for housing at this point of the year, that’s okay! You’re not alone. Searching for housing during the summer can be great for transfer students, late admits or those coming off the on-campus waitlist. Many students find affordable rentals and roommates during this time.

Finding off-campus housing can be an exciting opportunity to create your ideal living situation. By starting your search at the right time and making use of helpful university housing resources, you’ll be empowered to make smart, confident choices for next year’s student housing. No matter where you are in your planning, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

Have questions or want more guidance? Connect with Off-Campus Life to make your university housing journey successful.

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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 ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��. 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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