Connect With Others

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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ. 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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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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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ, 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

��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ has to offer!

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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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ, 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 ��ɫ��Ƶ.

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 ��ɫ��Ƶ 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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3 paths to find your herd

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:29:51 +0000

3 paths to find your herd Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/14/2025 - 10:29

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College is so much more than classes. Our campus is a vibrant community where you can discover your passions, explore new interests and find the people who truly get you.

Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time or returning with new goals, this is your moment to get involved, meet friends who share your vibe and create unforgettable memories. Be open to new experiences and let curiosity guide you—your herd is out there, and this is a great time to find them.

Here are three paths you can take to help you meet new people this fall.

1. Your preferred social settings

Everyone has their own comfort zone when meeting new people. Maybe you thrive in small circles and appreciate meaningful conversations, or perhaps you’re energized by big gatherings and collaborative projects. Remember, there’s no single “right” way to connect. What matters is finding spaces where you feel most yourself.

Here are some things to check out this semester:

Small-group events and programs:

DIY Nights

Queer Cheer

2s-Days in the Gaming Lounge

Trivia Nights

Large-group events and programs:

I Love Mondays

Student Game Day Huddles

Intramural Sports

Events around Halloween, Homecoming and finals

Additionally, explore student organizations on BuffConnect to find more opportunities. However you prefer to hang out with others, trust that your unique approach can lead you to friendships that feel natural and fulfilling.

2. Your daily routines and habits

No matter when you feel most like socializing, campus life offers natural ways to connect with others who share your daily rhythm.

If you’re an early riser, there are some activities in the morning to help you meet fellow Buffs. The Rec Center offers morning fitness classes, and there are often many other morning student events (sometimes with free coffee!). If you’re more of a late-night person, Buffalo Nites and Buffs After Dark are great options to connect with others. This semester, leaning into your own habits can lead you to friendships that fit your schedule and style.

3. Your personal goals and growth

Students often find their herd at ��ɫ��Ƶ when they connect around shared ambitions and personal growth. Whether you’re striving for similar career goals, seeking leadership experiences or focusing on your well-being, these common pursuits can spark meaningful relationships and foster a supportive community.

If you’re career-oriented this semester:

Attend workshops and industry events hosted by Career Services.

Check out volunteer opportunities.

Consider working part-time on campus.

If you’re seeking leadership experience:

Join a leadership program, like CU GOLD.

Explore opportunities with CU Student Government.

Apply to be a resident advisor (RA).

If you’re focused on your well-being:

Discover ways to get involved at the Rec Center.

Join monthly Stress Less events.

Connect with a peer wellness coach about your goals.

Finding your herd is a journey that’s unique to each person. No matter which path you follow, remember that our campus is full of people eager to connect and grow together. Stay curious, take chances on new experiences and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

Find support

Take advantage of the many support resources on campus—they can help you make the most of your college experience.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI)

CSI can help you get connected on campus, whether you’re looking to join a club, attend fun events or grow as a leader. From crafting and cultural celebrations to leadership programs and late-night activities, CSI helps you find your people and make the most of your Buff experience.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community

The Center is a welcoming space where you can be yourself, build community and find support through programs that promote belonging and empower social change. Whether you're attending a cultural event, connecting with peers or seeking resources as a first-gen or LGBTQ+ student, The Center is here to help you thrive on campus.

College is so much more than classes. Our campus is a vibrant community where you can discover your passions, explore new interests and find the people who truly get you. Here are three paths you can take to help you meet new people this fall.

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3 reasons to work on campus

Emily Sampl — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 16:39:25 +0000

3 reasons to work on campus Emily Sampl Wed, 08/13/2025 - 10:39

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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 Fair on Tuesday, Aug. 26 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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Find your people: Tips for meaningful connections

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 18:25:22 +0000

Find your people: Tips for meaningful connections Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 08/08/2025 - 12:25

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Building new friendships in college can feel exciting and full of possibility. Remember, you’re surrounded by fellow Buffs who are also eager to connect, make friends and share experiences. Embrace this unique chapter—exploring campus life, joining clubs and trying new things can all open the door to meaningful connections. Check out these tips to discover ways to build supportive relationships and make the most of your college experience.

1. Ease your expectations

When looking for new friends, remember that each person you meet offers something different. Whether it’s a study buddy, an adventure partner or a good listener, having a diverse group of friends makes college more rewarding.

It's okay to take your time as you find your community at CU—real friendships often grow naturally over time. Be proud of every small step you take and celebrate your efforts to connect. Remember, college is not just about academics, but also about discovering who you are and the people who will cheer you on during this journey.

2. Take advantage of opportunities for small talk

Small talk may get a bad reputation, but it’s an incredible gateway to new friendships—especially in college. These quick chats are a natural part of meeting new people and can lead to some of your most memorable college moments.

Whether you’re striking up a conversation with someone in your residence hall, swapping stories before class or chatting while in line for coffee, small talk helps break the ice and opens the door to discovering shared interests. Each casual exchange is a chance to learn something new—maybe you’ll find a fellow hiking enthusiast or someone who’s excited about the same campus club as you. Don’t be afraid to ask about weekend plans, favorite classes or upcoming campus events—these easy openers can lead to genuine connections and lasting friendships.

3. Work with discomfort

Meeting new people on campus can be an exciting part of your college adventure. Before new interactions, try grounding yourself and remember that you’re not alone—everyone else is trying to find their community, too.

Physical tension: If you notice some nervous energy or tension, try focusing on the present moment. Quietly remind yourself of simple facts like your name, your reason for being here or something you’re looking forward to this week. These small reminders can boost your confidence and help you stay in the moment.

Nervous thoughts: If you catch yourself worrying about what others might think, try recognizing those thoughts without judging yourself. You could say, “I’m having the thought that I won’t fit in, but that doesn’t mean it’s true!” Give yourself permission to be authentic—others appreciate the real you.

By acknowledging discomfort and allowing yourself to move forward anyway, you give both yourself and others the chance for meaningful connection.

4. Socialize your interests

Balancing all that college has to offer—classes, campus events clubs, and time for yourself—can be a rewarding challenge. Setting healthy boundaries and protecting time on your calendar for your hobbies and interests is a powerful way to make the most of your college years, meet new friends naturally and create lasting memories.

Try penciling in regular moments each week for something you enjoy, even if your schedule feels packed. Whether you join a fitness class or a student organization, getting involved helps you meet new friends and feel more at home on campus. By becoming a familiar face at activities that interest you, you’ll grow your social circle and strengthen your sense of belonging.

Remember, there’s no pressure to build deep friendships overnight. Sometimes just showing up can make your day brighter and open the door to new connections.

5. Try different strategies

There’s no single way to make friends and exploring different approaches can lead to great connections.

Joining group events or chats makes meeting people feel easy and fun, and takes the pressure off one-on-one interactions.

Practice casual chats in daily life, like with a cashier, to build your comfort and confidence in conversation.

Have a few conversation topics in mind, like hobbies or weekend plans, to spark meaningful exchanges with new friends.

Remember past times in your life when you've had to make new friends, what worked then and what you learned from that experience that you could apply now.

As you practice small talk and meet new people, aim to keep early conversations light—sharing just enough helps friendships grow naturally.

Above all, remember that meaningful connections are built one step at a time—so trust your journey, reach out, and let your college experience become richer through the people you meet along the way.

Find support

If you or someone you know is struggling to connect on campus or feeling isolated, there are support services available to help.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS offers a number of mental health and support services for students, including therapy groups, workshops and drop-ins through Let’s Talk.

Health Promotion: If you are struggling with finding a community, navigating campus life or need support, Peer Wellness Coaching is a great free peer-to-peer option. They know what it's like to adjust to a new community (they're students too!) and can share tips, ideas and campus resources for meeting your people.

Check out these tips to discover ways to build supportive relationships and make the most of your college experience.

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Connect With Others

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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4 ways volunteering can change your life

Broaden your worldview

Get involved and make a difference

Find your place and your people

Build skills for what’s next

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

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3 tips to make new friends this fall

1. Connect with others who share your interests

2. Be bold and introduce yourself

3. Know that it can take time

Find support

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What to do after the Be Involved Fair

Browse BuffConnect

Take the first step

Try it out

Explore other ways to get involved

Stay connected

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Make the most of the Be Involved Fair

Reasons to attend

New Buffs and transfer students

Returning students and graduate students

Prepare for the fair

Research

Set goals

Ask questions

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3 paths to find your herd

1. Your preferred social settings

2. Your daily routines and habits

3. Your personal goals and growth

Find support

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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

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Find your people: Tips for meaningful connections

1. Ease your expectations

2. Take advantage of opportunities for small talk

3. Work with discomfort

4. Socialize your interests

5. Try different strategies

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