6 ways to build leadership skills in college

Anonymous — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:11:02 +0000

6 ways to build leadership skills in college Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 09/23/2026 - 08:11

Leadership can show up anywhere in your college experience—in a group project, campus job, student organization or conversation with a friend. Everyday experiences give you opportunities to practice skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability.

As you get involved at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, look for ways to contribute, support others and make a positive impact. Here are six ways to start building your leadership skills.

Practice empathy

Good leadership starts with listening to and considering other people’s experiences and perspectives. Practicing empathy can help you build stronger relationships, communicate more effectively and make others feel valued.

Try practicing empathy by:

Listening without interrupting or immediately offering advice.

Asking questions to better understand someone’s perspective.

Making space for quieter voices during group conversations.

Attending campus events where you can meet people and learn about experiences different from your own.

Checking in with someone who seems left out or inviting them to join you.

Small actions can help create a more welcoming environment in your classes, residence hall, student organization, workplace and other communities.

Take accountability

Taking responsibility for your words, actions and commitments builds trust. Everyone makes mistakes, and leadership often shows in how you respond when something doesn’t go as planned.

If you miss a deadline, make a mistake at work or realize something you said affected someone negatively, acknowledge what happened. Apologize when appropriate, communicate what you’ll do to address the situation and follow through.

Focus on being honest about what happened, making things right when you can and learning from the experience.

Speak up and share ideas

Sharing your ideas is one way to help make your community better. If you notice a problem or see an opportunity for improvement, consider how you could contribute to a solution.

This could mean suggesting a new approach during a group project, proposing an event for your student organization, sharing feedback at your campus job or speaking up about something that could improve the student experience.

When sharing an idea, explain the problem you’re trying to solve, offer a possible solution and listen to feedback from others. Learning how to communicate ideas thoughtfully can strengthen your problem-solving and communication skills.

Communicate through conflict

Disagreements and misunderstandings happen, especially when you’re working with people who have different experiences, priorities and communication styles. Learning how to navigate those moments is an important leadership skill.

Before reacting, ask questions and make sure you understand what happened. Focus on the situation rather than making assumptions about the other person.

For example, if someone doesn’t finish their part of a group project, ask what happened and talk about what the group needs to move forward. They may need clarification, additional time or support from tutoring resources. Clear communication can help your group address the issue while maintaining a productive working relationship.

Follow through

Being someone others can count on is an important part of leadership. Follow through on your commitments, communicate when plans change and put effort into the responsibilities you take on.

You can practice this skill in small ways: arrive prepared for a group meeting, complete your part of a project on time, show up for your shift or give your best effort at practice.

When something gets in the way of a commitment, communicate as early as possible. Being consistent and dependable can build trust with classmates, friends, supervisors and teammates.

Help others succeed

Strong leaders help create opportunities for the people around them to contribute and grow. Supporting others can make your group or community stronger.

You might share a helpful resource with a classmate, recognize someone for a great idea, invite a new member into a conversation or offer support when a teammate is struggling. You can also connect someone with campus resources when they need additional help.

Look for opportunities to encourage others and recognize what they bring to the group. Helping people feel included and supported is one way to make a positive impact in any role.

Find ways to build your leadership skills at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

College offers plenty of opportunities to practice leadership, whether you want to take on a formal role or simply get more involved. Consider exploring:

Student organizations: Join a student organization to meet people who share your interests, contribute to a group and find opportunities to build leadership skills.

Leadership opportunities: Explore programs, student employment and other opportunities to develop your leadership skills.

Volunteer opportunities: Get involved in one-time, ongoing or group service opportunities on campus and in the Boulder community.

Sustainability opportunities: Find jobs, volunteer opportunities, programs and events through the Environmental Center.

Career Services: Learn how to identify and communicate the skills you’re building as you prepare for jobs, internships and life after college.

You don’t have to wait for a leadership title to start building leadership skills. Look for small opportunities to listen, contribute, follow through and support others. Those everyday experiences can help you grow your confidence and prepare for future opportunities on campus, at work and beyond.

Leadership skills can grow through everyday experiences. Explore six ways to practice communication, empathy, accountability and teamwork, and learn how getting involved can help you build leadership skills at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.

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Conquering mud season: Your spring hiking guide

Emily Sampl — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:05:33 +0000

Conquering mud season: Your spring hiking guide Emily Sampl Tue, 02/24/2026 - 10:05

Recreation Services

Warm weather and spring storms can cause hiking trails to become waterlogged and muddy. This time of the year is often considered to be “mud season” as conditions usually persist from late March through May.

If you plan to hit the trails this spring, here are some tips and recommendations.

1. Pick the right trail

Before heading out, do some research:

Review weather conditions to avoid storms or flooding.
Check trail conditions and reviews on sites like AllTrails.
Call national parks for updates on trail closures and conditions.
Choose south-facing trails for drier conditions. Trails that are exposed to sun instead of in the trees will have less snow and dry out faster.
Pick an easier trail than you would in summer, considering steepness, length, elevation gain and accessibility.
Avoid higher terrain since high-elevation trails take longer to thaw.
Opt for paved trails like those at Garden of the Gods or Fountain Valley Trail if you’re unsure about muddy conditions.

For more trail information, the Adventure Resource Center's library at the Rec Center offers guidebooks and resources on hiking and mountain biking trails.

2. Bring the right gear

Consider these gear options for muddy or wet hikes:

Hiking boots: Choose waterproof hiking boots (6-8 inches tall) over sneakers. Bring an extra pair of shoes to change into after your hike.
Gaiters: Use gaiters that slide over your boots or shoes for extra protection against snow, water and mud.
Socks: Nylon and merino wool socks wick away moisture. Bring a spare set of socks and shoes to change into after your hike.
Plastic bags: Use plastic bags as a makeshift waterproof liner for your boots or to store your wet and muddy boots in on the drive home.
Trekking poles: While not always necessary, poles offer stability and help in tricky situations like pulling your foot out of a muddy spot.
Winter traction devices: Also known as microspikes, crampons or ice cleats, these can be helpful for extra traction on ice or snow.
Layers: Wear layers to adjust to changing weather conditions, especially in spring.

Students can rent hiking equipment through Outdoor Pursuits at the Rec Center, including hiking boots, microspikes, trekking poles, backpacks and headlamps.

3. Head out early

For better trail conditions, hike in the morning when the ground is still frozen. As temperatures rise, ice and snow turn to mud, making it harder to navigate. Starting early also helps you avoid crowds.

4. Be respectful

With many hikers hitting the trails, it's vital to hike responsibly to prevent damage. If a trail is muddy or wet, follow these tips:

Follow trail closures: Obey all closures and notices to avoid dangerous conditions or further damage. Check conditions beforehand and have alternative plans ready.
Stay on the trail: Walk in the center of the trail, even if it's muddy, to prevent erosion and ecosystem damage. Avoid widening the trail by skirting around wet areas.
Use natural features: If a trail has steppingstones, logs, boardwalks or other features, use them to protect the trail and ensure easier passage. Be cautious, as these features may be slippery due to snow, ice or water.

Connect with fellow Buffs

If you enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures, meet Buffs with similar interests through Outdoor Pursuits. This program offers hiking and backpacking trips during the academic year, wilderness workshops, equipment rentals and more.

If you plan to hit the trails this spring, here are some tips and recommendations.

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Getting Involved

6 ways to build leadership skills in college

Practice empathy

Take accountability

Speak up and share ideas

Communicate through conflict

Follow through

Help others succeed

Find ways to build your leadership skills at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

Related Articles

Conquering mud season: Your spring hiking guide

1. Pick the right trail

2. Bring the right gear

3. Head out early

4. Be respectful

Connect with fellow Buffs

Related Articles

Getting Involved

6 ways to build leadership skills in college

Practice empathy

Take accountability

Speak up and share ideas

Communicate through conflict

Follow through

Help others succeed

Find ways to build your leadership skills at ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������

Related Articles

Conquering mud season: Your spring hiking guide

1. Pick the right trail

2. Bring the right gear

3. Head out early

4. Be respectful

Connect with fellow Buffs

Related Articles

Find ways to build your leadership skills at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��