Get Involved

3 reasons to work on campus

Emily Sampl — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 17:39:25 +0000

3 reasons to work on campus Emily Sampl Tue, 11/25/2025 - 10:39

Students who work on campus get to enjoy many benefits. Some jobs allow you to build technical skills and are a great way to explore potential careers. Others may offer some downtime and let you study around your job duties.

Whatever you’re looking for, here are a few reasons to consider applying for an on-campus job.

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

One of the best perks of an on-campus job is flexibility. Most student jobs offer flexible scheduling around your classes and other commitments. Many supervisors will also adjust schedules during busy times, like finals.

Many students work between 10 and 15 hours weekly, with 25 hours per week maximum. At your on-campus job, your academics stay the priority.

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

The other students you work with can quickly become your new friends. Departments like the Rec Center, Environmental Center, Residence Life and Campus Dining & Hospitality are some of the largest employers of students. These jobs allow you to spend time with fellow Buffs and get to know them.

Student employment also allows you to work more closely with faculty and staff. They can become mentors and potentially lead to future internships or research opportunities. Additionally, faculty or staff supervisors can provide letters of recommendation or serve as professional references later.

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Whatever department you work in, your student job can help you build your resume.

Many students develop foundational skills at on-campus jobs that they can use in professional positions after college. These skills include communication, problem-solving, time management and leadership.

There are also student jobs specific to different industries that can teach you technical skills. These roles include work in graphic design, event planning, social media, data analytics and research.

Find student jobs

Use Handshake to search for on-campus student employment, including hourly and work-study positions.
Stop by the On-Campus Student Job & Professional Experience Fair on Thursday, Jan. 15 to meet with campus departments looking to hire students.
Connect with Career Services to find support with every aspect of your job search, including using Handshake, writing resumes, practicing for interviews and more.

Looking for a job? Here are a few reasons to consider student employment.

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Staying in Boulder for winter break? Here are 5 things to do

Anonymous — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:39:22 +0000

Staying in Boulder for winter break? Here are 5 things to do Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 11/11/2025 - 14:39

Looking for things to do over winter break? Here are some activities to enjoy in and around Boulder.

Spend time outside

Colorado winters often have plenty of sunny and warmer days to enjoy the great outdoors. You can explore the city by taking a walk or bike ride on the Boulder Creek Path, or try one of these five winter hikes to do in the Boulder area.

Treat yourself

Take advantage of visiting restaurants, shops and attractions with less people around over winter break:

Check out Boulder’s Bites on a Budget list or make reservations at a foodie favorite.
Head to Boulder’s downtown district for a variety of local coffee shops.
Visit a local museum, like the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, or one of the many museums in Denver.

Volunteer

A great way to get more involved in Boulder is to volunteer. There are many benefits to volunteering, in addition to giving back to your community. Volunteering allows you to meet new people, support a cause you care about and develop professional skills. Connect with Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to find opportunities.

Cheer on the CU Buffs

Both CU Buffs men’s and women’s basketball teams have home games at the CU Events Center over winter break.

Students with a CU Sports Pass can log in and claim tickets for men’s basketball games before each home game. Admission to women’s basketball games is free with your Buff OneCard.

Get a start on your spring checklist

After reflecting on your fall semester, you may have some new goals for spring. Whether you’re looking to join something new or land a summer job or internship, here are some upcoming dates and resources to help you prepare.

Check out the On-Campus Student Job Fair: Looking for a part-time job? Meet with campus departments who are hiring student employees at this fair on Jan. 15.
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: Sko Serve sends teams of college students to engage in meaningful service during their breaks from school. Applications close Jan. 30.
Visit the Spring Volunteer Fair on Feb. 3: Connect with local organizations that have volunteer opportunities and learn about getting involved in your community.
Prepare for spring career and internship fairs: Career Services has online tools to support you with your job or internship search, from finding opportunities to getting resume, cover letter and interview help.

Learn more about getting involved

Follow @CUBoulderLife on I nstagram, Facebook and X.
Download the CU Boulder Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Check out upcoming student events.

Looking for things to do over winter break? Here are some activities to enjoy in and around Boulder.

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How to get ready for game day

Emily Sampl — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

How to get ready for game day Emily Sampl Fri, 11/07/2025 - 00:00

The CU Buffs will take on Arizona State on Nov. 22. 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, Nov. 21 | 7 p.m.

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

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 State at Folsom Field on Nov. 22. 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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How to navigate campus life as an introvert

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

How to navigate campus life as an introvert Emily Sampl Tue, 10/21/2025 - 00:00

Whether you consider yourself an introvert or extrovert, you have options each semester to get involved, find support and connect with others in ways that work for you.

Introverted people tend to prefer socializing in small groups or one-on-one, with a preference for alone time as well. Even though CU Boulder is a large university, introverts can take advantage of opportunities tailored for them to meet fellow Buffs and get involved on campus. Here are some tips to navigate your college experience as an introvert.

Schedule social time and downtime

Just like you would plan your study sessions, intentionally plan time each week to connect with others. Make plans to get coffee with a friend or call a family member to catch up. You can also plan to attend smaller student events on campus that allow you to meet others, like DIY Nights, Queer Cheer or Free Friday Power Hour. Humans are social animals and regular connection with others is great for your well-being!

Additionally, be intentional about planning downtime for yourself. If you recognize that you need alone time to recharge, build that into your schedule. After socializing, you might benefit from walking, playing video games or reading a book. It’s OK to say ‘no’ to plans with others sometimes and take time to rest.

Adapt to crowded situations

Whether it’s large class sizes, networking events or popular fitness classes, getting to know others in a smaller group setting may not always be an option.

Fortunately, there are often ways you can navigate crowded situations:

Attend your professor’s office hours outside class to ask questions or get help with coursework.
Set up informational interviews to network professionally in a one-on-one setting.
Visit busy spots on campus outside of peak hours, like the Rec Center or C4C Dining Center.
Take breaks at large campus events, like career fairs or involvement fairs. It’s OK to leave and come back!

Find quiet spaces on campus

If you need somewhere to hang out between classes or study without others around, there are many options for introverts. Review this list of study spots on campus to check out, and keep these tips in mind:

You can reserve study rooms with �Թ�� Libraries.
Conference rooms in the C4C are available on a first-come, first-served basis after 5 p.m.
Classrooms can be used as study spots when not in use for classes or evening events.

Check out student resources

Find support with getting involved on campus:

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

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE)
Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, make a difference and meet people with similar passions.

Recreation Services
Find your fit at The Rec! Join fitness classes, play intramural sports, explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits or attend an Inclusive Rec event.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community
The Center offers programs, events and resources to promote inclusion and nurture identity development, diversity, equity and social justice.

Student events
The Division of Student Life hosts hundreds of free events each semester. Find things to do by following @CUBoulderLife on Instagram and downloading the CU Boulder Life app.

Even though CU Boulder is a large university, introverts can take advantage of opportunities tailored for them to meet fellow Buffs and get involved on campus. Here are some tips to navigate your college experience as an introvert.

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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

Listen to this article

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.

Discover 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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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 �Թ�� 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

Listen to this article

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

Discover 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

Listen to this article

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. Discover 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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Get Involved

3 reasons to work on campus

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Find student jobs

Related Articles

Staying in Boulder for winter break? Here are 5 things to do

Spend time outside

Treat yourself

Volunteer

Cheer on the CU Buffs

Get a start on your spring checklist

Learn more about getting involved

Off

How to get ready for game day

Check out events before the game

Pearl Street Stampede

Get organized

Be respectful and considerate

Look out for yourselves and each other

Related Articles

How to navigate campus life as an introvert

Schedule social time and downtime

Adapt to crowded situations

Find quiet spaces on campus

Check out student resources

Related Articles

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

Get involved and connected

Support your local community

Discover 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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Things to try before you graduate

Attend a CU Athletics event

Go hiking in Boulder

Become a journey leader

Go to Late Night Breakfast

Join an intramural sports team

Volunteer

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Fun ways to celebrate fall in Boulder

CU Athletics

Get outside

Activities on campus

Events around Boulder

Halloween fun

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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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Boost your college experience this semester

Learn beyond the classroom

Find your community

Explore your options

Balance involvement with academics

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