boulder bound

A residential student leader shares advice for New Buffs living on campus

Anonymous — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:07:33 +0000

A residential student leader shares advice for New Buffs living on campus Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/07/2026 - 09:07

Many students will be living on their own for the first time when they move into the residence halls this August. To help during this time of transition, New Buffs can look to their residential student leader to help guide them. Residential student leader have a wide range of knowledge and resources to assist students in their first year at CU.

Gavin Walker worked at Stearns West during the 2025-2026 academic year and he’s been a residential student leader since 2024. Gavin shares advice for new students and some insights into what it's like to live on campus.

What do you wish you had known in your first year at CU?

I wish I had known about all of the academic resources available to students. There are so many tools and people ready to help you succeed. Don't be afraid to use them. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, it's a sign of self-awareness and will help you pass your classes.

Where’s your favorite place to study on campus?

Norlin Library is my favorite because it has a mix of environments to fit whatever I need. If I'm working on a group project or studying with friends, we head to the conversational floor where we can actually talk. If I need to focus solo, the third floor has the quiet I need to get things done.

What's one thing you wish you would have brought to campus your first year?

A basic toolkit, a first aid kit and a portable battery pack for my phone. You don't realize how often you need a screwdriver, a bandage or extra charge until you're stuck without one!

What advice do you have for New Buffs?

Get involved any way you can. College is an incredible time to expand your network and figure out what you love and what you don't. Go to those club meetings, step into leadership roles in activities that excite you and don't stop applying to scholarships. The money doesn't dry up once you get to college, there are tons of scholarships available to current students that most people never even look for.

Many students will be living on their own for the first time when they move into the residence halls this August. To help during this time of transition, New Buffs can look to their residential student leader to help guide them. Review advice and insights into what it's like to live on campus.

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Student employees share advice for New Buffs

Anonymous — Mon, 06 May 2024 15:23:19 +0000

Student employees share advice for New Buffs Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 05/06/2024 - 09:23

Working on campus can offer many benefits for new students. In addition to earning money and having a flexible schedule, on-campus jobs allow you to spend time with fellow Buffs and get to know them better. Many students form friendships with their coworkers and have supervisors they can include in their professional network.

Izzy Tuccio, Hayley Thomas and Indu Varshini Jayapal share advice for new students and some insights into what it's like to work on campus.

Izzy Tuccio

Izzy is a senior studying marketing and leadership, and has a Social Responsibility and Ethics certificate. Izzy works at the Environmental Center (E-Center) on campus.

How has working on campus enhanced your college experience?
Working on campus has connected me with CU resources and offerings through campus. I have also had the opportunity to meet a bunch more staff members who have guided me and students outside of the major which is a nice change of pace.

What is your favorite thing about working on campus?
I specifically love working at the E-Center because the people are so unique and thoughtful about their lives. It had been a huge source of inspiration and education for me.

What advice do you have for New Buffs?
To a future Buff I would say that getting involved with a campus institution is one of the best things I have done for my personal life and career goals. Finding an organization that works within a passion of yours is an amazing experience and so worth your time. I will truly miss the E-Center and look back on it fondly.

Hayley Thomas

Hayley is a senior studying international affairs and works at the Basic Needs Center on campus.

How has working on campus at 91��ý enhanced your college experience?
Working on campus helped me find friends. As a transfer, I didn't live on campus, so work gave me a solid place to meet new people. Through my office, I have met people who I hang out with, go to events with, and get food and drinks with.

What is your favorite thing about working on campus?
Working on campus has increased my understanding of the needs of our students. The Basic Needs Center addresses student food and housing insecurity, so my work here has opened up my eyes to both the issues in Boulder and the available resources. I feel that I have gotten a more nuanced understanding of Boulder and of social issues through my campus job.

What advice do you have for New Buffs?
Learn to understand your capacity. Working and extracurriculars are great additions to classes, but everyone has a different capacity to take on extra work. For example, some students need time to compress in the evening, and students may take more or less credits or work more or less hours. Finding your capacity will help you get the most out of CU without burning out.

Indu Varshini Jayapa

Indu is a graduate student studying data science and works at the Basic Needs Center on campus.

How has working on campus at 91��ý enhanced your college experience?
Working at 91��ý has allowed me to deepen my connection with the campus community, fostering a strong sense of belonging. From epic events to awesome activities, I'm in the know and fully involved. Moreover, my on-campus job has facilitated valuable connections with faculty, staff and peers, broadening my professional network. A big shoutout to my amazing supervisors who not only keep things fun but also set us up with sweet study spots during those intense midterm and final weeks!

What is your favorite thing about working on campus?
My favorite thing about working on campus is that it feels like I have everything I need right here. With both my studies and job in the same place, transitioning from work to studying is seamless and convenient.
It's like having my academic and professional worlds perfectly aligned.

What advice do you have for New Buffs?
My advice for New Buffs would be to dive into campus events and opportunities as much as possible. Getting involved and putting yourself out there can open up countless doors. Consider exploring on-campus job options—there are numerous offices catering to various interests, so you're likely to find something that aligns with your passions. Additionally, don't hesitate to reach out to Career Services to discover exciting avenues for involvement on campus.

Are you considering working on campus? The Division of Student Affairs is one of the largest on-campus employers of students. Check out student job opportunities.

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Transferring to CU? Get advice from fellow Transfer Buffs

Anonymous — Wed, 01 May 2024 19:26:48 +0000

Transferring to CU? Get advice from fellow Transfer Buffs Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/01/2024 - 13:26

Starting out at a new university offers many exciting opportunities. Soon, you will be meeting new people, getting to know campus and diving deeper into your academics. As a transfer student, you have access to the Transfer Student Community—a program with events, resources and other support to help in your transition to 91��ý.

Tessa Meyer and Natalie Hansard are two transfer peer mentors in New Student & Family Programs. Review their tips and advice for students who are arriving on campus this fall.

Tessa Meyer

Tessa is a junior majoring in International Affairs and Japanese.

What should New Buffs be sure to do in their first semester at CU?

Get involved on campus, whether it is joining a new club, going to events that interest you or even an on-campus job. It's valuable to try to meet new people on campus and build that connection.

What is your favorite thing about being a Buff?

My favorite thing about being a Buff is that the vast array of opportunities available at this expansive school allows for a wide range of experiences and chances for personal growth. Whether it's academics, clubs or community service, there's always something exciting to dive into. Moreover, interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds enriches my perspective and fosters meaningful connections, continually expanding my worldview.

What advice do you have for New Buffs?

Don't shy away from stepping out of your comfort zone and engaging with unfamiliar faces, broadening your horizons but also fostering lasting relationships that can enrich your college journey and beyond.

Natalie Hansard

Natalie is a junior majoring in Applied Mathematics and Quantitative Finance.

What should New Buffs be sure to do in their first semester at CU?

Join clubs—it’s a great opportunity to meet new people while trying new hobbies that interest you.

What is your favorite thing about being a Buff?

There’s a great environment here that supports every type of individual. Although CU is a big school there’s so many ways to connect with the community and really make it feel small.

What advice do you have for New Buffs?

Reach out to your classmates and professors, it’s a great way to connect and build friendships as well as create a supportive environment academically.

Transfer peer mentors help incoming transfer students with their transition to a new university. Have a question about life at CU? Connect with a transfer peer mentor.

Review tips and advice from transfer peer mentors for new students who are arriving on campus this fall.

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Your guide for living in Boulder

Anonymous — Wed, 01 May 2024 15:39:07 +0000

Your guide for living in Boulder Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/01/2024 - 09:39

Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is a unique city with plenty to do. Whether you’re visiting this summer for the first time or you’ve visited Boulder before, here are some insights to help you become more familiar with the area and prepare for the fall semester.

Life in Boulder

The city of Boulder has a lively atmosphere with many unique attractions around campus.

The Hill: University Hill (“The Hill”) is one of Boulder’s main commercial districts. It offers a unique array of shopping and dining options.
Pearl Street: Pearl Street sits in the heart of Boulder, just outside campus, offering a wide range of entertainment, dining and shopping.
Restaurants: Boulder is known for great food! Check out Downtown Boulder’s Bites on a Budget list for more affordable dining in the area.

Sunshine, elevation and all seasons

Boulder has a mild and dry climate and experiences all four seasons throughout the year. With these elements, make sure you arrive with sunscreen, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle.

While Boulder is often sunny, it is not always warm. During the winter months, Boulder can experience blizzards that leave 8 inches of snow on the ground and temperatures below freezing. Remember to pack plenty of warm clothes, winter boots, a winter coat, gloves, a hat and scarf.

It may take some time for you to acclimate to Boulder’s elevation and dry climate, and it’s extremely important to stay hydrated. After moving to Boulder, students are encouraged to gradually increase activity level to avoid altitude sickness. Learn more about preventing altitude sickness and the signs of dehydration before arriving.

Sustainable transportation

Boulder is one of the most bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly cities in the country. The Boulder Creek Path runs throughout the city, allowing for easy biking or walking without the stress of traffic.

If you plan to bring your bike to campus in the fall, review these tips from the CU Police Department about preventing bike theft. You're also able to rent a bike through the Environmental Center each semester, or sign up for BCycle.

Outdoor recreation

Between hiking, climbing, camping, backpacking and more, there are many options to explore Colorado's great outdoors. If you're visiting Boulder this summer, review these essential tips for hiking in Colorado.

If you're interested in visiting state and national parks, check out the Rec Center’s Outdoor Pursuits. Through Outdoor Pursuits, you can rent gear, take trips with fellow Buffs and learn new skills.

Boulder is also close to many downhill ski areas. The CU Ski Bus provides an affordable, convenient way to get to the I-70 resorts and back.

If you plan on skiing or snowboarding later this year, remember to pay attention to snow and weather conditions. Storms can approach quickly during the winter, and chains or adequate snow tires might be needed if you're traveling on mountain roads.

Friendly community members

Many neighborhoods in Boulder are a combination of students, graduate students and community members, including families with young children.

Wherever you live, we all play a part in the well-being of our community. Whether you're on campus or visiting other areas of Boulder, be considerate and thoughtful of those around you.

Learn more

Want to learn more about what it’s like to live in Boulder? Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram!

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Involvement

Anonymous — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 20:22:37 +0000

Involvement Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 06/22/2017 - 14:22

Involvement

Your next journey starts right here on campus!

91��ý has hundreds of on-campus activities, groups, clubs and events that you can get involved with. Explore your interests or career goals, meet your fellow Buffs and find your place here at 91��ý! It's all up to you to choose—and the opportunities are endless!

Student Clubs & Organizations

Student groups on campus—numbering more than 300—provide a huge variety of topics to learn about, events to attend and free food to eat! Keep up with your favorite activity or try something new—there are plenty of chances for all of it!

Check out the Center for Student Involvement!

Intramural Sports

Whether you've got a few years of volleyball under your belt, or it's your first time holding a basketball, there is an intramural sports team for you! Get up and moving after a long day of classes and make new friends through friendly competition.

Learn more about Intramural Sports!

Volunteer Opportunities

Want to meet some awesome people? Looking to give back your community? The greater Boulder area offers many opportunities to help out, or you can spend your time in communities across the country on a service trip during school breaks!

Check out the Volunteer Resource Center!

Campus Events & Activities

From the Conference on World Affairs to discounted bowling nights in The Connection, fun events are always happening in Boulder! Stay tuned to postings around campus for the latest updates. Who knows what you might find!

Explore the campus events calendar!

Need Help?

New Student & Family Programs is here to support you throughout the summer. Call or text
303-492-4431 or email welcome@colorado.edu.

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