Life Skills

Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:22:25 +0000

Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 04/22/2026 - 13:22

Fall Welcome is almost here, offering a chance to explore campus life and meet other students. Through fun events and activities, you’ll get to connect with people as the semester begins.

The connections you make during the first few weeks of school can lead to new friendships. Here are some easy tips to help you get started.

Make the first move

When it comes to making friends, one strategy to try this semester is to commit to making the first move. Try to be the first one to introduce yourself when you meet someone new over the next few weeks. Whether you’re meeting people in your residence hall or at Fall Welcome events, being the one to break the ice can help pave the way for fun conversations and new friendships.

Find Buffs with similar interests or hobbies

Finding your community can help you feel more comfortable at a large university like 91��ý. Between student organizations, classes, or programs and events that are specific to different groups and interests, there are many ways to connect with Buffs around things you have in common.

College is a great time to discover new passions and explore your identity. Here are a few ways to get started:

Sports and gaming

Intramural Sports

Sport Clubs

Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge

The Connection

Music and entertainment

Program Council

Distinguished Speakers Board

Cultural Events Board

Community building and advocacy

Environmental Center

CU Student Government

Give it time

Building friendships can take time. Starting college is a new experience for you and your peers, and you can take small steps each day to find your community. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you pursue friendships:

Focus on the positives: When meeting new people, look for things you have in common. This could include personality traits, hobbies, shared experiences or humor.

Make time to socialize: While focusing on academics is important, you should also take breaks to attend events and spend time with others.

Keep trying: It can take time to find friends that you connect with more deeply. It’s OK if you have friends that you only see in class or when you visit the Rec Center at first. These interactions can still be a highlight in your day and might become closer friendships over time.

Want to learn more about student life at CU? Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

The connections you make during the first few weeks of school can lead to new friendships. Here are some easy tips to help you get started.

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Key tips for living with roommates

Anonymous — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:44:43 +0000

Key tips for living with roommates Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/15/2026 - 09:44

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Living with roommates can be a great experience that also might come with its challenges. For many of you, this might be the first time you’re sharing a living space or living with someone new.

Most students get along well with their roommates, and it’s normal to have disagreements sometimes. The good news is that working through these issues can help you grow and even strengthen your relationship. Here are some tips to help you create a positive living situation and handle any conflicts that might come up.

Get to know your roommate

Find common interests with your roommate and be open to accepting your differences. Even if you already know them, take some time to talk about the semester ahead and your daily routines.

Learn each other’s schedules so you can respect each other’s needs. For example, if you have an early class and need to go to bed early, but your roommate has a late work schedule and prefers to sleep in, understanding these habits will make living together easier. Good communication is key to figuring out each other’s routines and preferences.

Set ground rules together

As you get to know your roommate, this is a great time to establish ground rules to prevent misunderstandings later. Topics you could discuss include guests, chores and shared belongings.

Creating a roommate agreement is an easy way to discuss and agree on expectations with your roommate. If you live on campus, your residential student leader will work with you to set one up. If you live off campus, use this free roommate agreement template.

Be open to compromise

When discussing things with your roommate, you might have differences or opinions that could lead to disagreements. However, it’s often possible to find middle ground and compromise on things that aren’t a big deal.

For instance, if you prefer studying at home on Friday afternoons but your roommate likes to have friends over at the end of the week, you could choose to study at the library instead of asking for quiet time. Working out compromises like this can make living together more comfortable for both of you.

Respect each other’s space and belongings

Living in the residence halls or apartments can mean tight quarters, but you and your roommate still have a right to privacy and boundaries.

Ask before you borrow items belonging to your roommate, including food, clothes and toiletries.
Share plans with your roommate that might affect them, like if you’ve invited guests or are going out of town for the weekend.
Respect the ground rules that you’ve set up together—quiet hours, responsibilities with chores, etc.

Address issues quickly and in person

It’s a good idea to deal with roommate problems quickly before they become bigger issues. Try to talk to your roommate face-to-face about anything important. Using texts, social media or sticky notes to bring up problems can often lead to misunderstandings or make the situation worse. For example, a simple reminder like “Don’t forget to take out the trash” could come across differently than you intended.

Before you bring up an issue, take a moment to think about how to explain your feelings and needs. Using “I” statements is a helpful way to start. For example, you could say, “I feel frustrated when guests eat my snacks because I don’t always have time to go grocery shopping.”

Respect is a two-way street. Make sure to really listen to your roommate when they respond and ask questions to better understand their point of view. Avoid thinking about how you’ll respond while they’re talking—focus instead on understanding their thoughts and feelings so you can find a solution together.

If you’re nervous about starting the conversation, you can ask your residential student leader or the Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution team for help. They can guide the discussion and help you work things out. Remember, dealing with conflict can lead to better communication and a stronger relationship with your roommate.

Find support

You have access to a variety of resources to help resolve roommate conflicts if they come up.

Buffs living on campus can reach out to their residential student leader for support. These student leaders are a great resource to help mediate conversations and find common ground. Be sure to talk with your roommate beforehand and schedule a time with your residential student leader to discuss potential or unresolved issues.

All students can visit Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution, whether they live on or off campus. They can help you navigate conflicts between roommates, significant others, professors, classmates or others.

If you're ever concerned about your roommate, reach out to Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support or Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution for guidance.

Living with a roommate is a chance to build meaningful friendships and learn how to communicate effectively. By setting clear rules, resolving disagreements and using campus resources when needed, you can create a positive and supportive living space.

Here are some tips for creating a positive living environment and navigating conflict if it comes up.

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Resume tips every college student needs

Emily Sampl — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:03:34 +0000

Resume tips every college student needs Emily Sampl Tue, 03/10/2026 - 10:03

Career Services

Your resume is often the first impression you make on an employer and plays a crucial role in landing an interview. Typically, employers only spend 10-30 seconds scanning it, so it’s important to produce an effective resume that is easy to read, highlights relevant experience and grabs their attention.

Here are a few tips and best practices to help you create a strong, strategic resume.

Keep it simple

Tailoring your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is a great way to increase your chances of making it past the initial screening stage. Most companies and organizations use an ATS to manage the volume of applicants, often reducing the number of candidates by 70%.

Follow these guidelines to ensure your resume is compatible with ATS:

Avoid using columns, text boxes, colors and graphics.
When it comes to fonts, limit yourself to three font sizes and one font style.
Pull keywords from the job posting or the mission and values of the organization and incorporate them in your resume.

As a student, you have access to Quinncia—an online AI tool that provides free personalized feedback on your resume. Quinncia’s in-depth recommendations can help your resume pass through an ATS.

Keep it relevant

Use your resume to show employers why you’re qualified for the job. Remember, not all experience has to come from formal employment. For example, include foundational skills—like communication, teamwork and leadership—you gained through class projects or volunteering when it’s relevant to the job description.

Start your resume bullets with what you accomplished and answer one or more of the following:

How did you do it?
Why did you do it?
For what purpose?
Quantify information whenever possible.

Whether you have no experience at all or you are wanting something else to round out your skills, Career Services offers a variety of opportunities that take from 20 minutes to multiple semesters to complete and will help you add professional experience to your resume.

Keep it active

Always start bulleted statements with past-tense, active verbs and delete words like “a,” “and” and “the.” You want to paint a vivid picture of your skills in action that is short and to the point. A few action verbs that stick out to employers include "developed,” “enhanced," "created," “analyzed,” "managed” and "mentored.” For more examples, review this list of action verbs to use on your resume.

Keep it going

Career Services offers several career fairs and industry events throughout the year. Here are a few of the upcoming events where you can improve and showcase your resume:

March 24: Prepare for the Career Fair
March 26: Career Chats with Forever Buffs
March 30: Prepare for the Career Fair with The Center
April 2: Just in Time Career & Internship Fair
April 6: Resume Revamp
April 13: Landing a Job or Internship (virtual event)
April 16: Handshake Help Center
April 16: Landing a Job or Internship (in-person event)

Use Handshake to register for these events and others as well as sign up for one-on-one sessions with employers during virtual career fairs. If there are specific employers that you are scheduled to chat with, make a variation of your resume that is tailored to each of them.

Career advisors are available to help you create and edit your resume. Check out this list of more resume tips and schedule an appointment to meet with Career Services so that you’re prepared to apply when opportunities arise.

Here are a few tips and best practices to help you create a strong, strategic resume.

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Tips to help you get out of your comfort zone

Anonymous — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:28:35 +0000

Tips to help you get out of your comfort zone Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 02/11/2026 - 11:28

College is a great time to explore your interests and find your people. Getting involved, whether through events, activities or campus organizations, can help you feel more connected and confident.

The hardest part of trying something new is often the first step. Yet, stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things can enhance your college experience and help you find your community. Even small steps can lead to meaningful experiences and lasting connections.

Start with what you already like

Getting out of your comfort zone doesn’t always mean doing something totally new. Even going to an event related to something you already enjoy can feel uncertain if you’re showing up solo.

Take the chance anyway. You’ll likely meet others who share your interests and are also looking to connect. Many student events are low‑commitment, so you can check them out without feeling locked in. Starting with what you love can build confidence to try something new later.

Explore new interests

91��ý offers tons of ways to try new things—without pressure.

Curious about rock climbing? Check out events and courses at The Rec.
Want to volunteer but not every week? Connect with Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to explore short-term opportunities.
Thinking about joining a student org but not sure yet? Go to a meeting and see how it feels.

College is the perfect time to experiment, explore and discover new interests. You never know what might stick.

Show your Buff pride

Sporting events, concerts and live entertainment are easy, low‑pressure ways to feel connected to campus. You can just show up and enjoy the moment. Check out events from CU Athletics and Program Council to see what’s coming up.

Invite others to join you

Asking someone to join you can feel scary—but chances are, they’re looking for connection too. Invite a roommate, classmate, coworker or acquaintance to come along. Keep it casual.

If they say no, that’s okay. You still showed up for yourself. And saying yes to other people’s invites, even when you’re unsure, can lead to some of the best college memories. Most things are more fun (and less intimidating) with a friend.

Make the most of campus life

Check out ways to get involved and try new things:

Download the 91��ý Life app
Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Get involved on campus

Participating in a new activity or attending a new event may feel intimidating or uncomfortable. Yet, stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things can enhance your college experience and help you find your community.

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Squad goals: 4 ways to look out for each other

Emily Sampl — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:46:30 +0000

Squad goals: 4 ways to look out for each other Emily Sampl Tue, 02/10/2026 - 12:46

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College life is full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re celebrating something special, heading out to a concert or planning a night on the town, looking out for each other is what makes every moment memorable and safe. By sticking together and watching out for our herd, you can make sure fun times stay positive and everyone gets home safely.

Here’s your guide to keeping friends safe and making the most of every adventure.

1. Nail down your plans

Plan. Make sure everyone is on the same page about where you plan to go before, during and after. Communicate how you will take care of each other in case something happens.

Stick together. Make a commitment to stick together and agree on how you will meet back up if you get separated. This can decrease the chances that someone will have to rely on lesser-known friends or strangers to get home.

Check in with each other. It’s also important to establish a way to check in with each other throughout the day, night or weekend. Consider starting a group chat so you can communicate with each other in case someone needs help. Be sure to charge your phone so you can stay in touch with others.

Share your location. Finally, make sure everyone knows where you’re all going. Google and Apple Maps are a great way to make sure everyone ends up where they’re supposed to be. If you do get separated in a crowd, try sending a pin to the group with your location. You can also use features like “share my location.” Just remember to turn it off later if you want to stop sharing access. Finally, if plans change, make sure everyone knows and agrees on what you’re going to do.

2. Look out for each other

If people are drinking (or using other substances), make a commitment to watch out for each other. It can be helpful to set a limit before you go out, so your friends know when they may need to step in. In fact, 91% of students surveyed find it acceptable to let a friend know when they’ve had too much to drink.

Have fun and set limits that align with your own values, 91��ý’s Student Code of Conduct, and City and County of Boulder law. One thing to note: if you used alcohol or other substances before college, your usual tolerance might not hold up here. Your body gets used to familiar settings, but in a new environment like campus, the same amount can hit harder. Knowing that can help you stay safe and avoid unwanted effects. Similarly, if someone drinks too much, encourage a shift to water or help them get home.

3. Have an out

Create a code word, sign or text emoji that means ‘get me out of this situation!’ Proactively keep an eye out for questionable situations, especially if someone is intoxicated and may not be able to communicate their discomfort.

This can include things like someone pursuing someone in an unwanted or creepy way. Watch for people who hit on people who are too drunk, persuade others to drink, try to get a drunk person alone or away from their friends or are persistent about pursuing someone.

If you see someone in a potentially harmful or high-risk situation, you can do something to intervene. Bystanders are particularly important in situations where someone is being targeted because of their level of intoxication, or if a person has been intentionally drugged at a party. Remember that impaired or incapacitated people are usually unable to protect or advocate for themselves.

4. Get everyone home safely

Commit to not ditching someone if they have too much to drink or become unwilling to stick with the plan to stay together. Never leave a friend behind, especially with people they just met.

If you need a ride home, give CU NightRide a try or use a paid service. CU NightRide is a student-operated program that provides free night-time transportation for any 91��ý students, staff and faculty.

Knowing how to party smart can help keep you and your friends safe. Check out these tips to keep yourself and your friends safe if you plan to host or attend parties.

College life is packed with unforgettable adventures, but the best moments happen when you look out for others and stick together. Here’s your guide to making the most of every experience.

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How to talk to others with a different point of view

Anonymous — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:25:24 +0000

How to talk to others with a different point of view Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 01/30/2026 - 10:25

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

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

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

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

Approach conversations with an open mind

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

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

Prioritize listening

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

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

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

Practice effective communication strategies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to prepare for career fairs

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:54:40 +0000

How to prepare for career fairs Valerie Padilla Thu, 01/22/2026 - 10:54

Career Services

Looking for a job or internship? Career Services hosts career fairs every semester so you can meet employers, explore opportunities and practice your networking skills.

Check out these simple tips to help you feel confident and prepared.

Register on Handshake

Handshake is your go‑to place to register for career fairs, see event details and check which employers will be there. 91��ý students already have an account—just log in and complete your profile with your major, year, preferred name and resume. And make sure your profile is public!

For virtual fairs: Sign up for “Available Sessions,” including one‑on‑ones with recruiters or group sessions about the company.

For in‑person fairs: Employers will have a QR code at their table so you can check in. This lets recruiters view your profile, download your resume and message you later.

Review upcoming fairs to find events that match your interests.

Make it a habit to keep your Handshake profile up to date and check in regularly—search for new opportunities and upcoming events often. The more you use Handshake, the better it gets at recommending jobs and events tailored to your interests, helping you make the most of your job or internship search.

Attend prep workshops

Career Services offers free workshops to help you get ready, including:

Prepare for the Virtual Career Fair on March 9

Prepare for the Career Fair on March 24

Prepare for the Career Fair with The Center on March 30

Get organized

Every career fair is open to all students, from all majors and experience levels. Browse through the list of employers who are attending on Handshake and highlight the ones you want to meet. New companies are added often, so check back before the event.

If you’re attending in person:

Bring your Buff OneCard.

Carry a few printed resumes.

Bring a notebook and pen.

Keep your bag with you (no bag drop available).

Plan your schedule so you have time to visit your top employers—lines and conversations can take longer than expected.

If you’re attending virtually: Have your resume and something to take notes with nearby.

Practice your pitch

Be ready to introduce yourself. Keep it short:

Your name

Your year and major

What kinds of roles you’re interested in

A quick example of related coursework, involvement or experience

You can also talk about one or two of your top skills, and come prepared with a few questions for each employer. Thoughtful questions show you’ve done your homework and help you learn more about company culture and opportunities.

Dress for success

Wear something that reflects who you are but also fits the professional vibe of the roles you’re pursuing. Your outfit can help boost your confidence.

Not sure what’s expected? Check company websites, talk with professors or advisors or reach out to Career Services for guidance.

Take notes

You’ll meet and chat with a lot of people at career fairs—don’t try to rely on your memory alone. Write down important details from each conversation, including the recruiter’s name and anything that stood out. Your notes will help you write stronger follow‑ups and prepare for interviews.

Find support

For more tips to help you prepare for career fairs, review our accessibility resources and check out upcoming programs and workshops.

Buffs can also stop by the Career Services office on the fourth floor of the Center for Community (C4C) to take a free professional profile picture or to have your resume reviewed. If you have questions about the fair, ask a Career Services team member through LiveChat on the Career Services website.

For accommodations including real-time captioning or a sign language interpreter, email adacoordinator@colorado.edu or visit the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance website at least seven days before the event. During the fair, visit the student check-in or info table for assistance or email careerservicesevents@colorado.edu to request an accommodation.

Looking for a job or internship? Career Services hosts career fairs every semester so you can meet employers, explore opportunities and practice your networking skills. Check out these simple tips to help you feel confident and prepared.

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4 money management tips for college students

Anonymous — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:24:23 +0000

4 money management tips for college students Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 01/20/2026 - 09:24

Basic Needs Center

For many Buffs, college is often the first time you’re managing money on your own. While it may seem challenging at first, adopting a few easy habits can empower you to manage your money confidently and pave the way for future success. Here are some practical tips to help you thrive financially.

Pay your bills on time

Late payments means extra fees, service interruptions and a hit to your credit score.

How to avoid common pitfalls:

Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders.

Always check your account balance to avoid overdraft fees.

Short on cash? Call the company before the due date. Many will offer payment plans or extensions.

Keep credit card debt under control

Many students get their first credit card in college, and it can be easy to make mistakes. Credit cards can help build credit and cover emergencies, but they can also lead to long-term debt if you’re not careful.

What to know:

Interest rates are high, and paying only the minimum each month mostly covers interest—not your balance.

Overspending on everyday purchases or impulse buys can add up fast.

Set personal rules: for example, use your card only for travel or emergencies and pay it off immediately.

Planning a big purchase? Save first instead of relying on credit.

Create a spending plan

A budget isn’t about restriction—it’s about control. Your budget can help you manage spending, avoid debt and plan ahead.

Start simple:

Track your monthly expenses (rent, food, entertainment, etc.).

Separate needs vs. wants and look for ways to save (like cooking at home instead of getting takeout).

Review your budget regularly (weekly or monthly, whatever works for you).

Start saving (even a little!)

Saving on a student budget is tough, but it’s worth it and can help you avoid financial stress.

Pro tips:

Pay yourself first: set aside a small amount of your paycheck before spending on anything else.

Build an emergency fund for unexpected costs.

Don’t stress if you need to dip into savings (that’s what it’s for!).

Remember, managing money takes practice. If you slip up, don’t panic—just keep learning.

Find support

If you’re struggling with housing or food insecurity, check out the Basic Needs Center for resources like emergency housing, the Buff Pantry for food and workshops on budgeting and well-being.

Learning to manage your money and avoid financial mistakes can take time, like any other new life skill. Here are four tips to help you with effective money management in college and beyond.

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How to navigate campus life as an introvert

Emily Sampl — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

How to navigate campus life as an introvert Emily Sampl Tue, 01/13/2026 - 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 91��ý 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 Trivia Nights. 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 University 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 91��ý Life app.

Even though 91��ý 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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How to get leadership experience on your resume

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 19:02:00 +0000

How to get leadership experience on your resume Valerie Padilla Thu, 12/18/2025 - 12:02

There are many ways to be a leader in your community and plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills. Here are a few ways to gain leadership experience this semester.

Apply for a leadership role or program

Get hands-on experience while developing leadership skills with these opportunities.

Journey leaders: Journey leaders are students within the New Student & Family Programs that welcome new Buffs to campus. You can gain valuable leadership experience while meeting new people and getting involved.

ASAP tutor mentor: ASAP tutor mentors work in paid positions to provide 1-on-1 and small group tutoring for all first-year students, students living on campus and new transfer students.

CU GOLD: Gaining Opportunities through Leadership Development (CU GOLD) offers students ways to develop leadership skills through several leadership program paths and opportunities.

Most student organizations, fraternities and sororities also have leadership roles for students to fill. These roles offer a chance to develop various skills and experiences you can use well after your time at 91��ý. Browse BuffConnect to explore student organizations by topic or alphabetical list.

Work on campus

On-campus jobs are a convenient way to gain experience, earn money and build leadership skills. There are many student job roles with some positions offering opportunities to take on more responsibility over time. Search for on-campus jobs on Handshake.

Participate on a student board or committee

Use your voice and help make decisions that affect our campus community. Here are some opportunities to consider.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Board: Develop programs and educational opportunities to enrich the campus experience for 91��ý students and student organizations.

Cultural Events Board: Broaden cultural knowledge by supporting the voices of underrepresented and misrepresented groups on campus to promote student engagement with their platforms.

CU Student Government (CUSG): Serve your peers, make a difference and leave your mark at 91��ý by participating in student government.

CUSG Recreation Board: Promote the improvement of the Recreation Center and the university community through planning and positive action.

Distinguished Speakers Board: Bring well-known speakers to campus and develop your skills in planning and implementing large-scale events.

Environmental Center Board: Advocate for campus environmental policy, determine funding for innovative sustainability projects, get practical experience and more. You can also join a CUSG Environmental board subcommittee to help shape 91��ý’s sustainability efforts! This semester’s groups focus on circular economy, sustainable transportation, food security, sustainable development, green chemistry and compost advisory.

National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH): Provide recognition for students and staff in the residence halls who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and who have made outstanding service contributions to their communities, CU and beyond.

Residence Hall Association (RHA): Foster and facilitate community among on-campus residents and promote a safe and comfortable living environment.

Senior Class Council: Keep seniors informed and involved while building pride, tradition and community among the graduating class.

UMC Board: Create policy, develop creative solutions to challenging issues and grow your leadership skills.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement Joint Board: Through policy making, leadership and outreach, being part of the SLICE Board can help you advocate for and provide services to meet campus and community needs.

Look out for your fellow Buffs

Being a leader on campus can be more than joining a program or holding a position in your student organization. Our Colorado Creed reminds us that we build character based on our decisions and actions toward others. If you see something concerning, don’t hesitate to call for help. Know how to be an effective bystander and look out for other community members.

Gaining leadership skills and experience to add to your resume can help when looking for a job or internship. Learn more about how to build professional skills and experience with Career Services.

Learn more about getting involved this fall:

Download the 91��ý Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Check out upcoming student events.

There are many ways to be a leader in your community and plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills. Here are a few ways to gain leadership experience this semester.

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Life Skills

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