Student Life

Journey Leaders share advice for New Buffs

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 19:41:43 +0000

Journey Leaders share advice for New Buffs Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 04/24/2026 - 13:41

New Student & Family Programs

Many New Buffs are excited to start their journey at CU �鶹ӰԺ and may be wondering what college life may be like. Fortunately, upperclassmen are more than willing to share their experiences!

Katie, Daniel and Miquela are journey leaders in New Student & Family Programs. Review their tips and advice for students who are arriving on campus this fall.

Q. What is a favorite memory you have from your orientation or first Fall Welcome?

Katie: My favorite memory was my first time visiting Chautauqua with my orientation friends. I didn’t know anyone in the group prior to orientation, and it was also my first time exploring �鶹ӰԺ on my own. To me, that small expedition we took showed me that I was capable of meeting new people and creating meaningful experiences.

Daniel: During summer orientation, I made an effort to talk to individual students in-between small group discussions to ask how they're doing and if they have questions or feedback for me. While talking with one student about the recent small group discussion, they told me that because they are relatively shy it can be hard to participate in these discussions. I told the student that they were totally fine, and that they should participate as much or as little as they feel comfortable with. By the time the next small group discussion started, I noticed that same student was talking and laughing with a handful of other students in the group.

I do not mean to take credit for this student breaking out of their shell—they would have done that with or without me being there as a Journey Leader (JL). That being said, this experience reminded me that everything we are doing as Journey Leaders is for the students. Regardless of whether they respond to our activities or truly hear what we have to say, our goal should be to provide them with the most useful orientation experience possible. The specific definition of a useful orientation will change from student to student, and JL to JL, but as the summer progressed, I found myself thinking about what I can do that would best set the students up for success.

Miquela: My favorite memory from my first Fall Welcome was the Neighborhood Block Parties, because they let me have fun with the friends I made and do some cool activities and games. This helped me step out of my comfort zone a bit and try new experiences and make more friends outside of my high school friends, with whom I came to college.

Q. Are there any social events or activities that you found particularly helpful for making friends?

Katie: I really enjoyed the Neighborhood Block Parties. They have lots of activities, so it feels less awkward going alone, and everyone is looking to meet people. It can feel intimidating, but the way I made most of my friends was by talking to strangers and meeting the people they knew.

Miquela: The social event that I found very helpful for making friends was the Be Involved Fair, because living in Williams Village, I felt I was missing out on activities that were happening on the main campus, but that changed when I attended this event. The Be Involved Fair was a great opportunity for me to find clubs to participate in and to get involved on campus. Within these clubs, I have met many friends who were in the same major as me, or even the same class, which helped a lot with forming study groups and meaningful connections.

Q. What advice do you have for approaching new people and starting conversations?

Katie: During welcome week, everyone wants to make new friends and is open to meeting new people. My favorite conversation starter is giving someone a compliment. I am a big fan of ear piercings, so I often compliment someone if they have a cool piercing, which then begins a conversation about all of our piercing stories. Find one external thing you can talk about, like shoes, someone’s haircut, or a unique outfit, and start there. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone you don’t know or introduce yourself to your residence hall neighbors because you never know who could become a long-term friend.

Miquela: Advice for approaching new people and starting conversations is, I would have to say, as vague as it sounds: small talk. Whether that is pointing out something that you like that, they have, like their appearance or belongings. Approaching and starting conversations is not that easy and can be scary and uncomfortable. Exploring connections is important, but it also takes time. The advice that I can give is that you have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable because there is a very big chance that someone else feels the same way that you do; you just have to get through the uncomfortable parts.

Q. What advice do you have for someone who is shy or introverted when it comes to making friends?

Katie: Be kind to yourself. I remember feeling like I always had to be doing something or meeting new people to be “successful,” but that is far from the truth. I learned to set small goals, like going to the dining hall by myself or going to one club meeting. By doing this, I was able to measure my success by these goals and still give myself time to decompress and adjust to college life.

Miquela: Being shy or introverted is completely okay. If there is something that you should take away from this is never change who you are, stay true to your values, and do the things that make you, you! Doing that, you could find a friend who is introverted too and making that connection could be the best thing. But as I said earlier, it takes time, so do not be discouraged if a connection does not happen right away; it will, it just takes time and a little bit of effort.

Q. What are some ways to balance extracurricular activities with academic responsibilities?

Katie: Learn your limits and create free time for yourself. “Busy” has a different meaning for everybody, so learning your limits is vital to avoiding burnout and having time for yourself. You will need time to recharge by doing something you love outside of academics and the overwhelming newness of college.

Miquela: Balancing extracurricular activities with academic responsibilities is hard, but I have learned that taking care of yourself mentally and physically is #1, then academics, and lastly extracurriculars. Now this may not be for everyone, but planning out your week with assignments that are due, exams, class prep, etc., is a good way to see where you could have that free time or to start assignments early, or just to help you organize everything that you have going on.

Q. What do you wish you had known in your first year of college?

Katie: As long as you are putting in effort, you will find your people. It is normal to feel homesick or alone when you are immersed in a new environment, and it takes time to adjust. Almost everyone I spoke to experienced this to some capacity, and I am no exception; however, at some point, I looked around and had genuine friends who cared about me, and it happened without me even realizing it.

Daniel: Something I wish I had known before starting college was how to read a degree audit. There are so many things that a student is thinking about when first starting college, it can all feel extremely stressful and overwhelming. As I progressed through college, the degree audit eventually turned into something that helped alleviate stress. It told me exactly what courses I needed to take and let me effectively plan for future semesters. That being said, when I registered for classes for the first time I did not know what a degree audit was, let alone how to use the information it contained. Anything that reduces the early stress of transitioning to college is a welcome development, and giving students the tools to think about their classes without stress can only be beneficial.

Miquela: Instead of something I wish I had known, I want to talk about what I wish I had done more of in my first year of college. I wish I was more socially involved because branching out further and outside of my high school friend group, I could have made more connections. I also wish I were not so intimidated by my professors because I was scared to go to office hours for help and feared failure. But through my years at CU, I have learned that it's okay to ask questions, to get a question wrong, and to get comfortable going to office hours because they are not intimidating as I thought.

Q. What other advice do you have for New Buffs?

Katie: Now is the time to try new things. You never know when a small decision to try something new will have lasting changes to your life. I am a very different person now than I was when I first applied to CU, and that makes me so happy. By leaving my comfort zone and allowing myself to become passionate about new things, I have added value to my life in ways I could never have anticipated.

Miquela: Out of everything that I have said in the beginning, I want to emphasize that there is a place for you here at CU. Not everything will be for you but there is something that will fancy your interests. Just be patient, have fun, make memorable memories with friends, and cherish your CU experience because it will go by so fast! Sko Buffs!

Many New Buffs are excited to start their journey at CU �鶹ӰԺ and may be wondering what college life may be like. Fortunately, upperclassmen are more than willing to share their experiences!

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Your complete guide to eating on campus this summer

Anonymous — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Your complete guide to eating on campus this summer Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 04/23/2026 - 01:00

Campus Dining & Hospitality

Campus Dining & Hospitality makes it easy for students, faculty, staff and visitors to find nutritious options with convenient locations across campus. Here’s where you can find food this summer. Before visiting a location, review the full details about summer dining location hours and accepted payments.

CU on the Run

Visit CU on the Run during Maymester this summer. Open May 4-30, this grab-n-go location in the C4C building offers hot and cold options, plus a made-to-order sandwich station for quick meals.

C4C Dining Center

Open for the summer on May 31, this award-winning dining center offers food from around the world, including eight micro-restaurants, a build-your-own salad and deli bar, dessert station and more. The Black Coats station features weekly specials like pho, ramen and meals highlighting local ingredients.

Roaming Ralphie

Currently located in the University Club parking lot 201, but on June 1, is moving to Dirk’s East Patio on the east side of C4C. This mobile dining spot serves a grill‑style menu with rotating daily specials.

WeatherTech Cafe and Bakery

Located in the C4C near the Buff OneCard office, stop by to enjoy responsibly sourced specialty coffees, teas and snacks.

SEEC Cafe

Located at Research Park in the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC) building, this cafe serves breakfast and lunch.

UMC Market

Stop by the UMC for pre-made sandwiches, fruit and other snacks on-the-go.

Kittredge Market

Located in the north wing of Kittredge Central, this market offers a full-service espresso and tea bar, on-the-go breakfast and lunch options, and a general market with snacks, drinks and essentials.

The Connection

Located on the first floor of the UMC, The Connection offers hot food and snacks.

Campus Dining & Hospitality remains committed to serving quality food as well as providing meals that accommodate the nine major food allergens and other dietary restrictions. Please email Lisa Whalen, RDN in Campus Dining & Hospitality, if you have questions or concerns about dietary accommodations.

Campus Dining & Hospitality makes it easy for students, faculty, staff and visitors to find nutritious options with convenient locations across campus.

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Exploring �鶹ӰԺ: Tips for new students

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:51:18 +0000

Exploring �鶹ӰԺ: Tips for new students Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 04/22/2026 - 13:51

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Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, �鶹ӰԺ is a unique city with plenty to do. Whether you’re in town this summer for the first time or you’ve visited �鶹ӰԺ before, here are some tips to help you get familiar with the area and prepare for fall semester.

Food and fun

�鶹ӰԺ is a vibrant city with lots to see and do near campus.

The Hill: University Hill, or “The Hill,” is a popular spot for students with plenty of shops and places to eat.

Pearl Street: Pearl Street is right in the center of �鶹ӰԺ and offers great options for food, entertainment and shopping.

Restaurants: �鶹ӰԺ is famous for its awesome food! If you’re looking for affordable options, check out Downtown �鶹ӰԺ’s Bites on a Budget list.

Elevation and all seasons

�鶹ӰԺ has a mild and dry climate and experiences all four seasons throughout the year (sometimes even in the same day). With these elements, make sure you have sunscreen, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle.

While �鶹ӰԺ is often sunny, it is not always warm. During the winter months, �鶹ӰԺ can experience blizzards that leave 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 �鶹ӰԺ’s elevation and dry climate, and it’s extremely important to stay hydrated. After moving to �鶹ӰԺ, students are encouraged to gradually increase activity level to avoid altitude sickness. Learn more about preventing altitude sickness and the signs of dehydration before move-in.

Getting around the city

�鶹ӰԺ is one of the most bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly cities in the country. The �鶹ӰԺ 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.

CU NightRide is also a great option for students—this program is CU �鶹ӰԺ’s student-operated safe-ride service that allows you to request free, evening transportation to and from any location within �鶹ӰԺ city limits.

Outdoor recreation

Between hiking, climbing, camping, backpacking and more, there are many options to explore Colorado's great outdoors. If you're visiting �鶹ӰԺ 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.

�鶹ӰԺ 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.

Learn more

Want to learn more about what it’s like to live in �鶹ӰԺ? Follow @CU�鶹ӰԺLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

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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

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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 CU �鶹ӰԺ. 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 @CU�鶹ӰԺLife 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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Your campus fitness guide

Emily Sampl — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:05:13 +0000

Your campus fitness guide Emily Sampl Wed, 04/22/2026 - 10:05

Recreation Services

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CU �鶹ӰԺ’s recreation centers are more than just fitness spaces—they’re places to find community, try new activities and make the most of your college experience.

Both the Main Student Recreation Center and the Williams Village Recreation Center are open to full fee-paying students and feature a range of exercise equipment including weights, cardio machines and functional fitness areas. Learn more about what The Rec has to offer.

Join fitness classes and training programs

Fitness and Wellness programs at The Rec offer various ways to stay motivated, find workout buddies and reach your fitness goals. Explore these options as you begin your first semester:

Group fitness classes: Access over 65 group fitness classes each week with a Be Fit Pass. From Pilates and cycling to strength training and F45, there’s something for everyone.

Instructional programs: Take advantage of small group instructional classes for activities like swimming, boxing, CrossFit, dance, martial arts and ice skating.

Personal training: Reach your fitness goals with certified personal trainers, either with one-on-one or pair sessions

Discover new activities and find community

Your time at CU �鶹ӰԺ is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. The Rec creates spaces to explore, connect and grow:

Inclusive Rec events: Open to all Buffs, these free events allow you to make new connections while trying different things like hiking, ice skating, adaptive training sessions and more.

Free Friday Power Hour: If you purchase a Be Fit Pass but your friend doesn’t, invite them to Free Friday Power Hour! Curious about group fitness classes but not ready to commit to a Be Fit Pass? Buffs can join a free class every Friday during the semester.

Work at The Rec: Looking for a campus job? The Rec Center offers opportunities for students to gain valuable leadership skills, work experience and friendships.

Get involved through team sports

Team sports are a fun and engaging way to stay active while forming friendships and building a sense of community. Here are two ways to get involved:

Intramural (IM) Sports

Join one of CU �鶹ӰԺ’s Intramural Sports leagues, open to all skill levels. Buy a Sports Pass for unlimited access to IM Sports for $25 per semester or $45 per year. Whether you’re playing on a team or joining as a free agent, it’s all about having fun and meeting new friends.

Sport Clubs

Take your athletic interests to the next level by competing against other colleges and universities through Sport Clubs. CU �鶹ӰԺ offers 30 men’s, women’s and co-ed teams. Informational meetings take place in late August and early September, and some teams may hold tryouts.

Explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits

Living in �鶹ӰԺ means you have access to stunning outdoor spaces, and Outdoor Pursuits at CU �鶹ӰԺ can help you make the most of it. Whether you’re new to outdoor activities or an experienced adventurer, there’s something for everyone:

Trips and courses: Outdoor Pursuits offers trips and courses for activities like hiking, backpacking and climbing. These experiences are a fantastic way to connect with nature and fellow adventurers.

Wilderness workshops: Join fellow Buffs and learn essential skills like backcountry cooking, animal tracking, plant identification and survival techniques.

Equipment rentals: Planning your own adventure? Stop by the Outdoor Equipment Rental Center to rent camping, climbing, water sports and winter equipment. Rentals are available to all Buff OneCard holders.

Stay connected

Recreation Services is proud to offer opportunities for Buffs to find community, try new activities and enhance the college experience. So, grab your Buff OneCard, download The Rec mobile app, explore our facilities and make this year your most active and adventurous yet!

Be sure to follow The Rec on Instagram to stay up to date with all the latest happenings.

CU �鶹ӰԺ’s recreation centers are more than just fitness spaces—they’re places to find community, try new activities and make the most of your college experience.

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4 quick tips for Transfer Buffs

Emily Sampl — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

4 quick tips for Transfer Buffs Emily Sampl Wed, 04/22/2026 - 01:00

New Student & Family Programs

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As a Transfer Buff, you belong to CU �鶹ӰԺ's Transfer Student Community, which offers events, resources and support for a smooth transition.

Here are tips to make the most of your first semester here.

1. Attend transfer student events

Each semester features events for transfer students to meet new people and get involved. Check out other student events, too! Sign up for the Transfer Buffs newsletter for updates.

2. Meet with a transfer peer mentor

Transfer peer mentors can offer guidance and connect you to campus resources—email transferbuffs@colorado.edu to schedule a meeting.

3. Get involved on campus

Join student organizations through BuffConnect or start your own. Explore volunteer opportunities on CUServes. Find an on-campus job or join community programs through the Center for Cultural Connections & Community, the Sustainable Buffs Community and Rec Center.

To learn about opportunities, follow @CU�鶹ӰԺLife on Instagram, Facebook and X, and download the CU �鶹ӰԺ Life app.

4. Find support

Numerous resources are available to help you with your overall well-being. Reach out to the Transfer Student Community for assistance.

As a Transfer Buff, you belong to CU �鶹ӰԺ's Transfer Student Community, which offers events, resources and support for a smooth transition. Here are tips to make the most of your first semester here.

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Move-in made easy: 5 must-know tips

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:39:30 +0000

Move-in made easy: 5 must-know tips Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:39

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Move-in will be here before you know it! If you’re moving into one of the residence halls soon, here are some tips for a positive experience.

Pack strategically

To help you maximize your space and reduce waste, review what to bring to campus and what items to leave at home. Before making purchases, consider spending several days in your room to get a feel for what else you need.

Residence halls will have carts to help you bring items to your room. Be aware that some residence halls do not have elevators—volunteers may be around for help with moving belongings.

Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes

Colorado weather in August tends to be hot, sunny and dry. Be prepared for your move-in day with sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. And remember to take breaks throughout the day, especially if you are from out of state and getting used to �鶹ӰԺ’s elevation.

Between bringing items to your room and exploring campus, you may move around and walk a lot during the day. Consider wearing comfortable and closed-toed shoes during move-in.

Download the CU �鶹ӰԺ Life app

Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play to have everything you need in one place. Get details on student events, review the Campus Map, find resources and more all through the CU �鶹ӰԺ Life app.

Introduce yourself to others

During your move-in day and first week on campus, don't be afraid to introduce yourself to others. This is the time of year when everyone is getting to know each other, so make the first move and say hello!

Try to get to know others in your residence hall and connect with fellow Buffs at Fall Welcome events. If you have a great conversation with someone, ask them to get dinner later or meet for coffee sometime soon.

Explore campus

After you’ve moved in, explore campus during your free time around Fall Welcome events.

Use the Campus Map to find where your classes are and nearby study spots.
Check out the different dining centers, grab-n-gos, markets and cafes to find your favorite place to eat. With 15 campus dining locations, there are many convenient options for finding breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
Visit the Rec Center, the University Memorial Center (UMC) and the Center for Community (C4C) to find ways to get involved on campus.

Want to learn more about the student experience at CU? Follow @CU�鶹ӰԺLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Move-in will be here before you know it! If you’re moving into one of the residence halls soon, here are some tips for a positive experience.

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5 tips for living in �鶹ӰԺ this summer

Lynia Herrington — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:32:00 +0000

5 tips for living in �鶹ӰԺ this summer Lynia Herrington Tue, 04/21/2026 - 08:32

Off-Campus Life

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�鶹ӰԺ has a lot to offer in the summer, from free events and entertainment to great food and beautiful views. Whether you’re in �鶹ӰԺ for the first time this summer or have been in town for a while, here are some tips for making the most of the season.

1. Check out local events and things to do

Visit the Rec Center | May-August
Swim in the Buff Pool, try a new fitness class and stay active this summer at The Rec! Check out summer membership options.

�鶹ӰԺ Creek Festival | May 22-25
Happening over Memorial Day weekend, join this longstanding festival tradition with live music, food trucks, vendors and more.

Bolder �鶹ӰԺ 10K | May 25
This 10K is for everyone. Participate by walking, jogging or running, or line up along the route to cheer on others.

�鶹ӰԺ Farmers Market | Wednesdays and Saturdays
Head to 13th St on Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings for fresh food and other items from local vendors.

�鶹ӰԺ Pridefest | June 13
�鶹ӰԺ’s Pride Festival will be jam-packed with activities, information from community partners and items from local vendors.

Bands on the Bricks |Wednesdays, June 10-July 29
From rock to reggae and everything in between, visit Pearl Street on Wednesdays for free concerts.

2. Visit thrift stores

Need things for your apartment or home? �鶹ӰԺ has many thrift stores and secondhand shops. Check your local thrift store for furniture, decor or appliances to furnish your place. Not only will you save money and find one-of-a-kind items, but shopping at thrift stores is a sustainable choice that can help the environment.

3. Support local businesses and get involved

Get to know your neighbors and community on another level by attending local events and supporting local businesses. Check Downtown �鶹ӰԺ’s Bites on a Budget list for affordable and local dining options.

If you have some free time this summer, volunteering is a great way to get more involved in your community. Volunteering allows you to meet new people, support a cause that matters to you and gain experience you can include on your resume. Connect with the Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to learn about opportunities.

4. Keep your lawn looking fresh

Believe it or not, the city of �鶹ӰԺ might measure the grass and weeds in your yard. Weeds and grass must be cut and maintained at less than 12 inches high. If you’re moving into a new place, check with your landlord to see who is responsible for lawn care. It should also be specified in your lease whether you or someone else will cut your grass.

Additionally, keep your lawn and areas of your neighborhood free of trash to avoid receiving a citation. Most parks have both recycling bins and trash cans, and ways to clean up after pets.

5. Be considerate of others

We all play a part in the well-being of our community. Whether we realize it or not, our actions can sometimes affect those around us. For example, playing loud music at the end of a long day may help you relax, but it might also annoy your neighbors. Whether you’re in your neighborhood or other areas of �鶹ӰԺ, be considerate and thoughtful of those around you.

Pay attention to noise levels. You could be ticketed for unreasonable noise at any time of day.

Review reminders on using a grill and fire pits. The city of �鶹ӰԺ has information on using grills and burning within city limits. This summer, also pay attention to drought watches.

Follow fireworks restrictions. Fireworks pose a significant fire risk and can cause substantial noise disruption to residential areas. The city of �鶹ӰԺ and �鶹ӰԺ County prohibit possessing or discharging all fireworks, firecrackers or skyrockets.

Get to know your neighbors. Wherever you live, take time to introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. Fill out and share contact information cards with your neighbors so you can keep in touch if anything comes up.

Register your party. Off-Campus Life and the �鶹ӰԺ Police Department have partnered to provide a registration program that will give you a 20-minute warning, instead of immediate police dispatch, if your residence receives a noise complaint.

To learn more about ordinances, avoiding citations and other helpful tips about living in �鶹ӰԺ, connect with Off-Campus Life.

If you do receive a citation or find yourself in legal trouble, Student Legal Services (SLS) can help. Visit SLS in UMC 311 or call 303-492-6813 to schedule an appointment. The office is open during the summer.

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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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5 things to know about the UMC

Emily Sampl — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

5 things to know about the UMC Emily Sampl Wed, 04/15/2026 - 00:00

University Memorial Center

Known as the campus “living room,” thousands of people visit the University Memorial Center (UMC) every day to eat, enjoy free activities and entertainment, study or just hang out. Here are some things to know about the UMC.

1. There are lots of dining options

During the academic year, the UMC has dining options for every taste including the Alferd Packer Restaurant & Grill, Infinitus Pie and Subway.

Dining options are limited during summer 2026 while the UMC undergoes several construction projects. Learn more about closures and alternative places to get food.

2. You can find your perfect study spot

Whether you need to print a paper or you like a table to spread out on, the UMC has excellent places to study. Be sure to check out the fifth-floor rooftop patio for a study space with a great view!

One great option for studying is the Student Engagement & Collaboration Area (SECA). Here you can find meeting rooms and lounge areas to work on group projects or be around others who are also working. And if you’re a student who commutes or lives off campus, check out the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102.

3. You have access to a premier gaming lounge on campus

CU �鶹ӰԺ has its own full-scale gaming space! Located on the first floor of the UMC, the Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge is outfitted with 17 Alienware gaming desktop stations, three Alienware gaming laptops, a varsity esports training area, a broadcast studio, console games and a tabletop game space. The gaming lounge is open to all CU �鶹ӰԺ students, staff and faculty and community members.

4. It has bowling, billiards and more

The Connection on the first floor of the UMC is a place to kick back, relax, have fun and meet new people. The space offers fun recreation options and amenities such as bowling, billiards, ping pong, video games and board games in a welcoming and open environment.

Check The Connection’s website for information on tournaments, trivia nights, special events and more throughout the semester.

5. The UMC is home to student resources

You will find many student-centered offices and services at the UMC. Whether you’re looking to get involved or need support, here are some of the resources you can find at the UMC:

Check the UMC building directory for a list of services, shops and spaces.

Follow @CU�鶹ӰԺLife on Instagram, Facebook and X to learn more about life on campus and how to get involved!

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Student Life

Journey Leaders share advice for New Buffs

Q. What is a favorite memory you have from your orientation or first Fall Welcome?

Q. Are there any social events or activities that you found particularly helpful for making friends?

Q. What advice do you have for approaching new people and starting conversations?

Q. What advice do you have for someone who is shy or introverted when it comes to making friends?

Q. What are some ways to balance extracurricular activities with academic responsibilities?

Q. What do you wish you had known in your first year of college?

Q. What other advice do you have for New Buffs?

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