Life Skills

How to prepare for cold and flu season

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 22:05:58 +0000

How to prepare for cold and flu season Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 09/15/2025 - 16:05

Medical Services

As the weather cools and campus life gets busier, take proactive steps and protect yourself from seasonal illnesses. Being informed and making simple changes to your routine can make a big difference in keeping you and your friends healthy throughout the semester. Take precautions this season by following these tips.

Get vaccinated

Vaccines, like flu shots, can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of your symptoms if you end up falling ill.

Buffs can get a free flu shot at one of our clinics around campus, starting Sept. 15. Student flu shots are available by appointment only—sign up through your student health portal.

Avoid the spread

Practicing good hygiene habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses and prevent the spread of illnesses. Here are some ways you can help yourself and others:

Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating, after using the restroom and after class. Be sure to use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

Remind your friends, roommates and peers to cover their coughs and sneezes, even if it’s just seasonal allergies.

Wipe down commonly used surfaces in your home or residence hall, including door handles, toilets, faucets, remotes and other areas you and your roommates touch regularly.

Avoid sharing personal products and utensils with others. This includes things like lip balm, food, beverages, and (if you are using) vapes and other products. You may also choose to wear a mask to reduce your exposure to respiratory illnesses.

Limit time in shared spaces, when you can, to help stop germs from spreading around your residence hall or apartment.

Take care of yourself

Did you know that your immune system can be affected by the things you do every day? Here are a few ways to take care of yourself and protect your immune system.

Getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night can help strengthen your body and immune system against illnesses. Try creating a routine where you wake up and go to bed at the same time each night to ensure you get enough sleep.

Eating a variety of foods regularly can help you maintain your energy and ward off viral and bacterial infections. Try adding vitamin-dense fruits and vegetables to each of your meals.

Staying hydrated can help loosen mucus and increase blood flow. Carrying a refillable water bottle and using water stations around campus is a great way to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.

Staying physically active can help your body build resilience against infectious diseases. Strive for at least 30 minutes of activity each day. This can include everything from walks across campus and trips to The Rec to playing yard games outside with friends. Remember to wash your hands after visiting public places—gym equipment can have lots of germs!

Taking time to relax and manage stress is important to keep your immune system running at full capacity. Experiencing stress may affect self-care routines and lower the body's resistance to infections.

Additionally, take time to review your health insurance policy to understand which providers and facilities are covered. This way, you’re prepared to access care with minimal out-of-pocket costs if you need it.

By taking charge of your health and making smart choices now, you’ll be setting yourself up for an energized, productive semester—so you can focus on classes, campus life, and everything college has to offer.

What to do if you get sick

If you start feeling under the weather, it’s important to take quick action to protect your health and prevent the spreading of illness to others. By following a few simple steps, you can recover more comfortably and help keep your community safe.

Learn more: What to do if you get sick

As the weather cools and campus life gets busy, it’s important to protect yourself from seasonal illnesses. Here are some tips to stay healthy this semester.

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Stand out at fall career fairs: Essential prep tips for students

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:54:40 +0000

Stand out at fall career fairs: Essential prep tips for students Valerie Padilla Thu, 09/11/2025 - 10:54

Career Services

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Are you looking for a job or internship this year? Career Services hosts career fairs each semester to connect students with potential employers. Even if you are not actively job searching, these events are a great way to learn about opportunities, stay updated on industry trends and practice your networking skills.

Here are some tips for making the most of in-person and virtual career fairs.

Register on Handshake

��ƷSM��ӰƬ students and alumni from all majors, experience levels and backgrounds can use Handshake to register for career fairs, find event details and see a list of employers attending. Current students already have an account—simply log in and follow these steps to complete your profile.

For virtual career fairs, use Handshake to sign up for “Available Sessions,” like one-on-ones with a recruiter or group sessions on different company-specific topics.

At in-person career fairs, each employer will have a QR code for you to scan at their table. This allows them to collect a list of all the students who checked in with them. They can then view your profile, download your resume and message you on Handshake after the fair. Make sure your profile is public and complete by including your major, school year, preferred name and resume.

Review the list of upcoming career fairs to see which events best fit your interests.

Attend workshops to prep

Career Services is hosting two free workshops to help you get ready for the fall career fairs:

Prepare for the Virtual Career Fairs Workshop on Oct. 1

Prepare for the Career Fairs with The Center on Oct. 6

Prepare for the Career Fairs on Oct. 13

Get organized

Career fairs are open to everyone, no matter your major or what year you’re in, and employers are looking to fill all kinds of positions. Take a moment to review the list of companies attending and pick out the ones you’re most interested in meeting. New employers are added regularly, so keep checking Handshake for updates leading up to the event. Plan out your schedule ahead of time so you have enough time to talk with your top choices—lines can get long and conversations might take longer than expected.

If you’re going to an in-person fair, don’t forget your Buff OneCard for check-in and bring a few printed copies of your up-to-date resume. Having a notebook and pen is a good idea for jotting down notes. You can bring your bag or backpack, but remember there’s no bag drop, so you’ll need to keep your things with you.

For virtual career fairs, keep your updated resume handy to share with recruiters and have some paper nearby so you can easily take notes on your conversations.

Practice

Get ready to introduce yourself and ask thoughtful questions when you chat with recruiters. Start by sharing your name, your year in college and your major or area of study. Mention the types of jobs or internships you’re interested in and highlight how your classes, campus involvement or work experience relate to those roles.

Coming prepared with questions shows recruiters you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their organization. Check out the top employers you want to connect with and jot down a few questions ahead of time. Great questions can help you get a better idea of company culture and opportunities, while also making you stand out as an engaged candidate.

Dress for success

Whether you’re heading to a career fair on campus or logging in virtually, choose an outfit that feels true to you but also fits the vibe of the jobs you’re interested in. Dressing the part can help boost your confidence and show employers you’re ready to take the next step.

If you’re not sure what’s expected in your field, check out company websites, ask professors or advisors, or reach out to Career Services for advice—there’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to planning your future.

Take notes

Meeting with multiple employers can be an exciting learning experience, and keeping track of your conversations helps you make the most of it. Bring a notebook and pen, or use your phone or laptop, to capture key points from each discussion.

After connecting with recruiters, jot down their contact information and highlight memorable details from your conversation. Noting what stood out about each company will help you follow up thoughtfully and remember your impressions when opportunities arise. These notes could be the boost you need to excel in interviews or to write standout thank-you emails after the fair—setting you apart in the job search process!

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) for a free professional headshot 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.

Career Services hosts career fairs each semester to connect students with potential employers, and these events are a great way to learn about opportunities, stay updated on industry trends and practice your networking skills. Here are some tips for making the most of in-person and virtual career fairs this fall.

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Balance classes, work and life like a pro

Emily Sampl — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:50:59 +0000

Balance classes, work and life like a pro Emily Sampl Thu, 08/28/2025 - 14:50

ASAP Tutoring

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Between hanging out with friends, working and keeping up with classes, your schedule can get packed fast. But don’t worry! Here are some time management tips to help you stay on track this semester and still have time for fun.

Get organized

First, get yourself organized. Whether you prefer a calendar, a planner or an app, use something to keep track of your schedule and responsibilities. Mark down things like exam dates, project deadlines, work shifts, club meetings, study sessions and events you want to attend. Regularly check your calendar to see what’s coming up and prioritize what needs to be done.

Block out study times

Set aside specific times each week just for studying or reviewing class materials. Having a routine can help balance schoolwork with social activities and keep you prepared for midterms and finals.

Plan your study sessions

Break down big assignments like papers, projects or exams into smaller tasks with deadlines. This way, you can make steady progress and avoid last-minute stress. For group projects, discuss with your team how to divide tasks and who’s responsible for what. Having a plan helps prevent procrastination and keeps you on top of your work.

Fight distractions

While you're studying, try turning off your phone or leaving it out of reach to help you focus. Set a timer for a focused study session—maybe 15 or 20 minutes—then take a 5-minute break when the timer goes off. Stretch, check your phone or grab a snack. Repeat the process to stay focused and get your work done faster.

Ask for help

If you’re stuck on a problem or don’t understand something from class, don’t struggle alone. Text a classmate, visit your professor during office hours or join a study group.

You can also find support through the Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP Tutoring), which is available to all first-year students, new transfers and students living on campus, and other campus academic resources. The sooner you ask for help, the less likely you are to fall behind.

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Sleep solutions for college students

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:44:21 +0000

Sleep solutions for college students Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/28/2025 - 12:44

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College life can shake up your sleep, but you have the power to get it back on track. Whether you’re staying up late with friends, juggling assignments or just feeling stressed, building healthy sleep habits pays off in better energy, focus and mood.

Most students do best with seven to nine hours of sleep each night. If sleep’s been tricky lately, don’t worry—simple changes can help you feel more rested and prepared for your day.

Having trouble sleeping?

You may find yourself losing sleep or having challenges with falling asleep. This can be due to any number of reasons, but some common ones include stress, anxiety, lack of a consistent routine or changes to your schedule. Experiment and try these tips to help you get more quality sleep.

Curb your caffeine

Caffeine typically stays in your system for about eight hours, so it’s best to finish your last energy drink or cup of coffee by the early afternoon. If you experience cravings later in the day, try decaf options or caffeine-free alternatives like sparkling water.

Stay active earlier in the day

Physical activity can give you a burst of adrenaline, which can help you stay alert and motivated throughout the day. However, it can also wreak havoc on your sleep schedule if you work out too late at night. To avoid restless nights, try to wrap up your workout at least three hours before you plan to go to bed. If you want to squeeze in some late-night movement, consider more relaxing activities like stretching, mobility exercises or yoga.

Turn off your screens

Blue light from screens can disrupt melatonin production and affect sleep. Use your device's night mode to reduce blue light in the evening and try putting electronics away an hour before bedtime. Setting your phone to ‘do not disturb’ at night can also help prevent notifications from disturbing your sleep.

Optimize your sleep environment

Did you know that your room setup can influence your sleep? You can optimize your room for sleep by:

Using your bed only to rest or relax to help your brain learn to associate your bed with sleep

Adjusting your room temperature to a cooler setting

Turning on a fan or brown noise app

Closing your curtains and turning off any ambient lighting, or wearing a sleep mask

Trying out essential oils like chamomile or lavender to help your body relax before bed

Avoid lying awake

If you find yourself lying awake in bed for more than 20 minutes, don’t force it. Sometimes our bodies need a little extra help to settle in for the night. When this happens, try getting out of bed to do a low-key activity like reading a book or stretching. Set a timer and try to do that activity for about 20 minutes before trying to go to sleep again. Avoid forcing yourself to lay in bed until you fall asleep—this can make it harder to fall asleep.

Sleeping more than usual?

If you find yourself taking frequent naps, having difficulty waking up, sleeping through your alarm, feeling groggy or fatigued throughout the day or feeling the urge to sleep more often, you may be struggling with over-sleeping. Fatigue and increased need for sleep can be caused by various factors, including boredom, depression or some medical conditions.

Here are some tips to help you get your sleep schedule back on track.

Look for patterns

When are you sleeping, and for how long? What else do you notice about your current habits? Look for patterns and try to identify things that may be influencing your sleep. These insights can help you create routines to help you back into a more regular rhythm. For instance, if you find yourself staying up late at night and needing a nap during the day, try to get to sleep an hour or two earlier. When making these types of adjustments, it’s best to implement changes over time. In this case, it may be most beneficial to go to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier each night until you find a bedtime that works best for you.

Practice consistency

Going to bed around the same time each night and getting up around the same time each morning can help you establish a solid sleep schedule. You can set yourself up for success by creating a nighttime routine that gives your body cues to settle down for the night. For example, you can set an alarm on your phone to remind you it’s time to get ready for bed. When you hear the alarm, start your routine. This may include things like taking a shower, brushing your teeth, stretching, reading a book or enjoying another calming activity to help you wind down for the night.

Moderate caffeine and alcohol

Save caffeinated beverages for the mornings and early afternoons. Caffeine later in the day can perpetuate a cycle of sleepless nights and groggy days. Similarly, try to avoid using alcohol as a sleep aid. Alcohol and cannabis might make it easier to fall asleep, but they reduce sleep quality. Both interfere with REM sleep, the stage that helps your brain and body recharge. As a result, sleep can feel less restful, and you may wake up feeling groggy or more tired the next day. Additionally, nicotine is a stimulant, so it can make it harder to fall asleep. It also disrupts sleep quality and may increase the risk of sleep problems like insomnia or sleep apnea.

Don’t deprive yourself

Running on too little sleep can cause us to overcompensate, which can lead to a cycle of sleep deprivation followed by oversleeping. This type of sleep cycling can take a toll on our physical and mental health, especially over time. For this reason, you should try to avoid pulling all-nighters, waiting until the last minute to finish assignments or staying awake much later on weekends than you would on weekdays.

If you’re still experiencing sleep issues

Changes in sleep patterns can be a side effect and early warning sign of depression or other conditions. Let your doctor or therapist know if you are not able to sleep or if you are sleeping too much.

There are a number of resources available to help you get a better night’s sleep and manage related issues, like stress or anxiety.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS provides mental health support for all ��ƷSM��ӰƬ students, including mental health screenings, drop-in hours, brief individual therapy, group therapy, workshops and crisis support.

Peer Wellness Coaching: Want advice from a fellow Buff? Schedule a free appointment with a peer wellness coach to help address stress, sleep issues, time management, self-care and more.

Apothecary Pharmacy: The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center is a full-service pharmacy that can fill prescriptions and provide over-the-counter remedies, including sleep aids, essential oils and more.

Acupuncture: Schedule individual or group acupuncture sessions that can help address a variety of concerns, including fatigue, sleep issues, stress, anxiety, depression and more.

Medical Services: If you are concerned that your sleep issues may be related to a medical condition, such as hypothyroidism, providers at Medical Services can help diagnose and address your concerns.

Wellness supplies: Pick up free wellness supplies, including mindfulness resources, ear plugs, eye masks, lavender aromatherapy rollers and much more at the Wellness Suites on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center or at the Village Center, or through a Buff Box.

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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

��ƷSM��ӰƬ 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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Unlock your leadership potential

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Unlock your leadership potential Valerie Padilla Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00

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.

Take on a leadership role

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

Sko Serve site leader: Plan and lead a service trip for students over spring break.

Resident advisors (RA): Live and work in the residence halls to support other students while creating an inclusive community and making a difference in Residence Life.

Journey leaders: Help welcome new Buffs to campus! You can gain valuable leadership experience while meeting new people and getting involved.

ASAP tutor mentor: Work with students living in the residence halls and first-year students in paid tutoring positions.

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 ��ƷSM��ӰƬ. Browse BuffConnect to explore student organizations by topic or alphabetical list.

Join a leadership program

These programs allow you to gain leadership experience and meet fellow Buffs.

CU GOLD: Develop leadership skills through several leadership program paths and opportunities.

Bloom: Peer mentors and mentees will share tips, support each other’s goals and help each other thrive!

Climate Justice Leadership Alliance: Work with other students, faculty and staff to develop and implement campus and community actions for climate justice.

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 ��ƷSM��ӰƬ students.

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 ��ƷSM��ӰƬ 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.

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 ��ƷSM��ӰƬ 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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Squad goals: 4 ways to look out for each other

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 17:54:30 +0000

Squad goals: 4 ways to look out for each other Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 08/20/2025 - 11:54

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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, ��ƷSM��ӰƬ’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 ��ƷSM��ӰƬ 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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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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Key tips for living with roommates

Anonymous — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:44:43 +0000

Key tips for living with roommates Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 08/13/2025 - 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 resident advisor (RA) 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 RA or the 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 resident advisors (RA) for support. RAs 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 RA to discuss potential or unresolved issues.

All students can visit Conflict Resolution, whether they live on or off campus. They can help you navigate conflicts between roommates, significant others, professors, classmates or others. They also offer free workshops, mediation and coaching sessions to help you improve your conflict management and resolution skills.

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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How to improve your social feeds

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 16:08:15 +0000

How to improve your social feeds Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/11/2025 - 10:08

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Social media can be a fantastic tool for staying connected with classmates and friends from your hometown. It’s also useful for discovering campus events, sharing your experiences and celebrating your achievements throughout the year. At the same time, social media can also have a negative influence on our well-being. Being mindful of how we engage online gives us the power to create healthier habits and build a more supportive digital environment.

To make the most of your social feeds this semester, check out these tips for creating a positive and meaningful online experience.

Audit your accounts

Do you know how many accounts you have online? Once you start looking at all of your social accounts, you may realize you have more than you thought. Social media is built into many of our favorite apps: Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, TikTok—the list goes on.

Take a moment to look at what kinds of social media accounts you have and reflect on how you use them. Ask yourself:

What do I do while I’m on this app?

Does it bring me joy, laughter, stress, anger?

Does it add value to my life? How?

Am I making meaningful connections here?

How much time am I spending on social media? Does it feel like too much, too little or about right?

If it's not feeling quite right, here are some things to try:

Hit unfollow

Who do you follow on social? Whether your feed is full of close friends and family or celebrities and meme accounts, it’s important to know who you’re following and why.

Look at the other accounts you follow and ask yourself:

Am I seeing posts that make me feel unhappy or put me in a bad mood regularly?

Does this account make me feel like I need to be someone I’m not?

Am I comparing my life, body or success with others?

What percent of people that I'm following are vetted experts in their fields vs. social influencers without expertise?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to unfollow. If you’re worried about unfollowing an account altogether, try muting or hiding them from your feed instead. Hiding negative content from your view can help you feel a sense of relief and will free up space for accounts that support your well-being.

Pause before you post

Funny memes or group photos from your night out might seem like fun content to post but consider the bigger picture. Many internship coordinators, potential employers and even grad schools check applicants’ social media—and they often dig deeper than you might expect. Even group accounts or "finstas” that aren’t obviously tied to your real name can sometimes be traced back to you and could affect opportunities down the line.

Before you post, ask yourself:

Could sharing this help or hurt me if a professor, employer or future roommate saw it?

How might this affect the other people tagged or pictured?

Does this break any campus policies, student codes of conduct or local laws?

If you’re unsure about the answers, it’s safer to skip posting. You’ll still have the memory, but you won’t risk your reputation or future opportunities.

Take a break

If you notice you’re scrolling social media all day, it might be time to give yourself a breather. Taking breaks from your feed can help you refocus and reconnect with campus life. Try making certain places—like your bed, your study spot, the library or classrooms—phone-free zones. Leaving your phone out of reach before bed, or during class or study sessions, can actually help you get better sleep, boost your focus and help your grades. Hanging out with friends in person is also a great way to unplug and enjoy the moment together. College is full of opportunities to connect—sometimes stepping away from your feed is the best way to make the most of them.

If you need extra help unplugging, try these tips:

Move social apps off of your home screen. Having an extra step can reduce the urge to open the app as soon as you get on your phone.

If an app doesn’t spark joy for you, consider deleting it.

Set a timer for 20-30 minutes while you’re studying or working on a project. Avoid using your phone until the timer goes off.

Use “do not disturb” mode. Silencing notifications can help you stay focused during the day and improve your sleep at night.

Review your phone for timer settings to limit how much time you spend on certain apps.

Social media can be a place where you find connection, gain insights and learn new skills. If you find that your social platforms are missing the mark, consider getting rid of them or using them less frequently. If you're unsure about deleting an account, see if you can deactivate it instead. This will temporarily remove your profile from the site without losing your account entirely. If you find that you miss it, you can always re-activate it later on.

Find support

As a new academic year begins, students can take advantage of Peer Wellness Coaching— a free service designed to help you set and achieve your personal wellness goals.

Peer wellness coaches are fellow students trained to offer support, encouragement and practical strategies for managing stress, improving self-care and making positive lifestyle changes. Whether you're looking to create healthier habits, find balance or simply need someone to talk through your goals with, Peer Wellness Coaching provides a welcoming space to focus on your well-being.

For students seeking support in managing or overcoming addiction to digital environments, the Collegiate Recovery Community offers a welcoming space and resources tailored to help you build healthier habits and connect with campus life.

If you’re struggling or having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression or stress, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is here to help. They offer free screening appointments for all undergrad and graduate students. Screening appointments are used to develop personalized plans, which can include therapy groups, workshops, community providers, short-term individual therapy and psychiatry or a combination of these services.

For more tips, check out resources from the Center for Digital Thriving.

To make the most of your social feeds this semester, check out these tips for creating a positive and meaningful online experience.

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