Student Life

Off-campus housing: When should you start your search?

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:18:05 +0000

Off-campus housing: When should you start your search? Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 09/25/2026 - 11:18

Off-Campus Life

Thinking about living off campus next year? You may hear that you need to find a place and sign a lease as soon as possible, but there’s no need to rush.

For most CU �Ǹ�Թ� students, January through May is the best time to complete your off-campus housing search. Much of the �Ǹ�Թ� rental market becomes available in January, giving you more properties to explore and compare. As more rentals become available, you may also find lower rental rates than you would during the fall.

Waiting until spring also gives you more time to figure out your budget, roommates and future plans.

That doesn’t mean you have to wait until January to start planning. Use this timeline from Off-Campus Life to know what you can do throughout the year.

October–December: Explore your off-campus housing options

Fall is a good time to start thinking about what you want in your housing. Take your time before signing a lease so you can explore more of the rental market when additional properties become available after winter break.

Start by thinking about:

Your budget: Consider rent along with utilities, groceries, transportation and other monthly expenses.

Potential roommates: Talk about budgets, schedules, habits and what you each want in a living situation.

Location and transportation: Think about how you'll get to campus and where your classes and other activities may be.

Your plans for next year: Study abroad, internships and other opportunities could affect your housing needs.

You can also browse rentals on Ralphie’s List to see what types of housing are available and start getting familiar with your options.

The Fall Housing Fair will take place Nov. 18 at UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom. Stop by to meet landlords and property managers, explore housing options and learn more about the rental process. You can gather information without committing to a lease.

January–May: Search for and secure housing

For most students, spring semester is the recommended time to seriously search for off-campus housing. A larger share of the rental market becomes available starting in January, giving you more properties to explore and compare before making a decision.

Search available rentals through Ralphie’s List, tour properties and compare your options before making a decision.

You can also attend the Winter Housing Fair on Jan. 14 at the Village Center to meet property managers and learn about available housing.

Before you sign a lease, read it carefully and make sure you understand what you're agreeing to. You can get your lease reviewed for free by an Off-Campus Life legal advisor.

June–August: Keep looking for housing

Still looking for a place during the summer? You have options. Students continue finding rentals and roommates throughout the summer, including transfer students, late admits and students coming off the on-campus housing waitlist.

Keep checking Ralphie’s List for rental and roommate listings. If you're having trouble finding a place or aren't sure what to do next, Off-Campus Life can help you navigate your search.

Take your time before signing a lease

Fall is a good time to explore your options, think about what you want and make a plan for next year. For most students, spring is the time to focus on finding and securing a place.

Wherever you are in your off-campus housing search, Off-Campus Life offers rental listings, roommate resources, lease reviews and other support to help you find housing that works for you.

Thinking about living off campus next year? Fall is a good time to explore your options, but you don’t have to rush to sign a lease. Learn when more rentals become available, what to consider during your housing search and how Off-Campus Life can help.

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How to get ready for game day

Emily Sampl — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000

How to get ready for game day Emily Sampl Tue, 09/22/2026 - 00:00

The Buffs take on Texas Tech on Oct. 3 at Folsom Field. Whether you’re heading to the game, joining the Student Game Day Huddle or cheering with friends, get ready to show your Buff pride and celebrate Homecoming.

Here’s what to know before game day.

Check out events before the game

Pearl Street Stampede

Friday, Oct. 2 | 7 p.m.

Kick off the weekend with a CU tradition on Pearl Street. Cheer on the Buffs alongside fellow fans, the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Spirit Squad and Chip!

Student Game Day Huddle

Saturday, Oct. 3 | 2:30 p.m. | Farrand Field

Get ready for kickoff at this student tailgate tradition. Stop by for free food, giveaways, games and music—and a chance to be highlighted in Folsom Field as the Student Fan of the Game.

Join Ralphie’s Green Stampede

Be part of the action while helping make game day more sustainable. Volunteer with Ralphie’s Green Stampede to help fans sort their waste and support zero-waste efforts at Folsom Field.

Know before you go

Heading to Folsom Field? A little preparation can make game day easier.

Get ready to Stripe Out: Wear either black or gold based on where you’re sitting in Folsom Field. Check the Stripe Out map to find your section and see which color to wear.

Bring a clear bag: Folsom Field has a clear bag policy in place. Review Folsom Field policies and reminders before you head out.

Plan how you’ll get there: Review the latest game-day parking and transportation information for parking, Buff Bus detours, free shuttle service, rideshare locations and other transportation updates.

Learn the CU Fight Song: Watch this video and get ready to sing along on game day.

Visit the CU Athletics website

Be respectful and considerate

You’re a Buff wherever you watch the game. Whether you’re at Folsom Field, a local restaurant or a friend’s house, help make game day welcoming for everyone. Celebrate responsibly, treat others with respect and remember that Buffs look out for their community.

If you’re celebrating off campus, keep noise and cleanup in mind. Excessive noise can result in a nuisance ticket, and you can also be fined for trash in your yard or around your property.

Hosting a gathering? You can lower your chances of receiving an expensive ticket by registering your party with Off-Campus Life. If a complaint is made about your address, party registration gives you a 20-minute warning to shut things down before police are dispatched.

Learn how to avoid legal trouble at CU �Ǹ�Թ� football games

Look out for yourselves and each other

Game days are more fun when Buffs look out for one another. Pay attention to the people around you and speak up or get help if something doesn’t seem right.

If you’re concerned about your safety or someone else’s, keep an eye on the situation and don’t hesitate to call for help.

Always call 911 in a drug- or alcohol-related emergency. CU’s Amnesty Policy protects the person calling and the person needing help in an emergency.

Have the fun you want and make choices that work for you. Get tips for partying smarter if you plan to party.

Learn ways to be an effective bystander and help other members of the CU �Ǹ�Թ� community.

Learn more about how to look out for each other

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4 safety tips for earlier sunsets and fall evenings

Anonymous — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000

4 safety tips for earlier sunsets and fall evenings Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 09/17/2026 - 00:00

Off-Campus Life

Listen to this article

As the daylight hours decrease, you may find yourself walking home from class, biking to work or heading to an evening event after dark. Fall also brings changing weather and more wildlife activity in �Ǹ�Թ�.

A few small changes can help you stay visible, get around safely and prepare for changing fall conditions.

1. Get around safely after dark

Earlier sunsets mean more of your daily trips may happen after dark. Whether you’re walking, biking or heading home from a late class or work shift, plan ahead:

Use crosswalks and wait for the walk signal before crossing.

Don’t assume drivers see you. Make sure vehicles have stopped before you cross.

If you’re walking where there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles.

Wear light-colored or reflective clothing and consider carrying a flashlight or using your phone light to help you see and be seen.

If you bike at night, use a front light and rear red reflector as required by �Ǹ�Թ� law. Review more biking tips for getting around campus and �Ǹ�Թ�.

Need a ride? CU NightRide provides free evening transportation for CU �Ǹ�Թ� students, faculty and staff within �Ǹ�Թ� city limits.

2. Keep your home secure

As it gets dark earlier, a few simple habits can help keep your home and belongings secure.

Turn on exterior lights when it gets dark, and remember to lock doors, accessible windows and vehicles—even when you’re only leaving for a short time. If you live with roommates, make sure everyone knows how to secure shared doors, garages and other entrances.

If someone arrives for maintenance or a property tour and you weren’t expecting them, don’t let them in. Contact your landlord or property manager to confirm the visit. Landlords should provide reasonable notice before maintenance workers or future tenants visit your rental.

Off-Campus Life has more information about living in �Ǹ�Թ�, including local ordinances and resources for renters.

3. Be bear aware

Bears are especially active in the fall as they look for food before winter. If you live on or near the Hill or anywhere west of Broadway, you can help prevent bears from finding food around your home.

Never feed bears or leave food outside for wildlife.

Secure your trash and compost. If you live in an area where bear-resistant containers are required, make sure yours is properly closed and secured.

Keep accessible doors and windows closed, including garage and vehicle doors.

Don’t leave food, wrappers, pet food or other scented items where bears can reach them.

If you encounter a bear, stay calm, give it space and make sure it has a clear way to leave. Never approach a bear or its cubs.

Learn more about �Ǹ�Թ�’s wildlife rules and bear-resistant trash requirements.

4. Plan ahead for fall outdoor activities

Fall can be a great time to hike, bike, climb and spend time outdoors, but shorter days and changing weather require some extra planning.

Start outdoor activities earlier than you would during the summer so you have plenty of daylight. Before you leave, check the weather, tell someone where you’re going and bring layers for changing temperatures. Keep your phone charged and with you in case of an emergency.

Weather can change quickly in �Ǹ�Թ� and at higher elevations, including the possibility of early-season snow. Fall can also bring wildfire risk, so check and follow current fire restrictions and bans before heading out.

Review more tips for hiking around �Ǹ�Թ� before your next adventure.

A little planning can go a long way as the days get shorter. Pay attention to changing conditions, look out for yourself and others and take advantage of CU �Ǹ�Թ� resources when you need them.

Shorter days and changing fall weather can affect how you get around campus and �Ǹ�Թ�. Learn simple ways to stay visible after dark, secure your home, avoid attracting bears and prepare for outdoor activities. Plus, find CU �Ǹ�Թ� resources that can help you get home safely this fall.

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Things to do this fall on campus and around �Ǹ�Թ�

Anonymous — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Things to do this fall on campus and around �Ǹ�Թ� Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 09/16/2026 - 00:00

Fall in �Ǹ�Թ� means changing leaves, football, Halloween events and plenty of reasons to get out and do something. Whether you want to meet new people, spend time outside or find something fun to do on campus, check out these ways to enjoy fall at CU �Ǹ�Թ� and around �Ǹ�Թ�.

Cheer on the Buffs

Fall means plenty of opportunities to cheer on the Buffs. CU �Ǹ�Թ� students can attend regular-season home soccer and volleyball games for free with a Buff OneCard, making it easy to catch a game with friends and show your school spirit.

Cheer on women’s volleyball at the CU Events Center or women’s soccer at Prentup Field.

Celebrate Homecoming (Sept. 30-Oct. 3) with events throughout the week, including the Homecoming football game on Saturday, Oct. 3.

Going to a home football game? Stop by the Student Game Day Huddle on Farrand Field before most home games for free food, music, giveaways and more.

Head downtown the night before home football games for the Pearl Street Stampede, featuring the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Spirit Squad and more.

See the fall colors

Cooler weather and changing leaves make fall a great time to get outside in �Ǹ�Թ�. Walk or hike a local trail, take in the views or try a new outdoor activity.

See the fall colors at Chautauqua or explore one of �Ǹ�Թ�’s many hiking and walking trails. Check the weather before you go, bring water and layers and choose a trail that matches your experience level.

Want to explore with a group? Outdoor Pursuits offers trips, classes and outdoor activities for a range of experience levels.

If you have access to transportation, take a drive along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway for another way to see Colorado’s changing leaves.

Find something fun to do on campus

You don’t have to leave campus to find something to do this fall. CU �Ǹ�Թ� offers free student events throughout the semester where you can try something new, take a break and meet other Buffs.

Get creative at DIY Nights, with free crafts and activities throughout the semester.

Unwind at Cozy Gaming, where you can play old favorites, try something new and join seasonal events like Spooky Games in October.

Spend your night at Buffs After Dark, with free late-night activities and events for students.

Catch a free movie on the big screen with Program Council’s Friday Night Film Series.

Explore �Ǹ�Թ�

Take a break from campus and explore what �Ǹ�Թ� has to offer this fall.

Shop for fresh produce, baked goods and other local products at the �Ǹ�Թ� Farmers Market on Saturdays.

Head downtown to walk Pearl Street, grab a bite to eat and check out upcoming Downtown �Ǹ�Թ� events, including live music, arts and entertainment and seasonal activities.

Celebrate Halloween

Looking for Halloween events at CU �Ǹ�Թ�? October brings spooky games, pumpkin activities, costumes and other ways to celebrate on campus. Many events are free for students, so grab a friend or try something new.

Ghost Bike Ride | Oct. 14 and 21

Anderson Farms - Collegiate Recovery Center | Oct. 24

Pumpkin Palooza | Oct. 27

A Safer Night Out | Oct. 30

Queer Cheer: Halloween | Oct. 30

“Hill”oween | Oct. 30

Free Friday Power Hour: Halloween Zumba | Oct. 30

Murder Mystery Night at the Climbing Gym | Oct. 30

Humans vs. Zombies | Oct. 30

Haunted Halls: The Nightmare Before the 150th | Oct. 30

Find more ways to get involved

There’s always something happening on campus. Browse upcoming Student Life events, download the CU �Ǹ�Թ� Life app and follow @CU�Ǹ�Թ�Life on Instagram to find events, activities and ways to get involved throughout the semester.

Fall has arrived in �Ǹ�Թ�! Celebrate the change of season, meet new people and explore the city with these indoor and outdoor activities including football, food, crafts, entertainment and more.

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Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget

Anonymous — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 18:57:24 +0000

Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 09/14/2026 - 12:57

Basic Needs Center

Grocery shopping on a college budget can be challenging, but a little planning can help you save money, reduce food waste and make meals easier throughout the week. Whether you cook regularly or rely on quick meals, try these tips to make your grocery budget go further.

Choose the strategies that work for your budget, schedule, kitchen setup and eating habits.

Plan meals before you grocery shop

Before you head to the store, check your fridge, freezer and cabinets to see what you already have. Then think about a few meals and snacks you’ll realistically eat during the week and make a shopping list. Need ideas? Check out the Taste of Home virtual cookbook for recipes from Buff families.

Planning ahead can help you avoid buying things you already have or food you may not use. Look for ways to use the same ingredients in multiple meals. Leftover vegetables could go into a stir-fry, soup or pasta, while dinner leftovers can become an easy lunch the next day.

Compare grocery prices and deals

A few minutes of comparison shopping can help you find the best value for your budget.

Check store deals: Look at your grocery store’s app or website for weekly sales and digital coupons. If something you regularly use is on sale, consider working it into your meal plan.

Compare unit prices: The price per ounce, pound or other unit can help you compare different brands and package sizes.

Try store brands: Generic or store-brand products often cost less than name brands.

Compare different options: Fresh, frozen and canned foods can all be budget-friendly. Compare prices and choose the option that works best for your meals, storage space and budget.

Remember, buying a larger package isn't always the better deal. Consider whether you have space to store it and can use it before it goes bad.

Buy pantry staples in larger quantities when it saves money

Buying larger quantities of foods you use regularly can help lower your cost per meal and save money over time. Foods like rice, pasta, oats and beans can cost less per serving when you buy more, especially if you know you’ll use them. Just make sure you have enough storage space and will use the food before it goes bad.

You can also make more expensive ingredients go further by combining them with lower-cost foods. For example, add beans to tacos, lentils to soup, or vegetables to pasta or instant noodles.

Make your groceries last longer

Using what you already have can help you save money and reduce food waste.

Freeze foods you won't use right away when possible, and keep foods that need to be eaten soon where you can see them. Before buying more groceries, check whether you have ingredients that can become your next meal or snack.

Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables can also be useful if fresh produce tends to go bad before you use it. They last longer, hold the same nutritional value and can be easy to add to meals, smoothies and snacks.

Find food and nutrition support at CU �Ǹ�Թ�

If paying for groceries is difficult, you don't have to figure it out on your own. CU �Ǹ�Թ� offers resources that can help students access food and plan affordable meals.

Basic Needs Center

The Basic Needs Center connects students with food and other essential resources.

Buff Pantry: CU �Ǹ�Թ� students can access fresh produce, pantry staples, frozen items and personal care products.

Mobile Food Pantries: Find free pop-up food pantries available to CU �Ǹ�Թ� students, faculty, staff and �Ǹ�Թ� and Broomfield community members.

Ralphie’s Cooking Basics: Learn how to make easy, budget-friendly meals at free cooking classes.

Workshops: Student groups, classes and other campus groups can request workshops on topics such as nutrition basics and meal prepping.

Nutrition Services

Students can meet with a registered dietitian for free to get personalized guidance on meal planning, dietary needs and other nutrition topics.

Community Food Share

Community Food Share serves �Ǹ�Թ� and Broomfield counties with free food resources, including an on-site pantry and mobile food pantries.

Find help: Search for local food, housing, health care and other assistance in �Ǹ�Թ� County.

Small changes can add up. Start with one or two strategies—like shopping with a list, comparing prices or using what you already have—and find a grocery routine that works for you.

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Meet the 2026 CU �Ǹ�Թ� Homecoming Court

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 17:31:30 +0000

Meet the 2026 CU �Ǹ�Թ� Homecoming Court Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 09/14/2026 - 11:31

Twelve students have been selected for the 2026 CU �Ǹ�Թ� Homecoming Court, recognizing their leadership, involvement, service, school spirit and contributions to the CU �Ǹ�Թ� community.

Selected through a holistic review process, this year’s Homecoming Court recognizes students for the different ways they have contributed to CU �Ǹ�Թ� and made an impact during their time on campus.

“Homecoming is an opportunity to celebrate the people who make CU �Ǹ�Թ� such a special community,” said Dr. D’Andra Mull, vice chancellor for student life. “The students selected for this year’s Homecoming Court demonstrate the many ways Buffs lead, serve, connect and contribute. I’m excited for our community to learn more about them and celebrate the impact they’ve made.”

Meet the 2026 Homecoming Court

Congratulations to this year’s Homecoming Court:

Jake Belloit

Kiersten Braley

Hunter Donovan

Silvana Gonzalez

Katherine Little

Destiney Micou

Freya Nagy

Anders Nordstrom

Jay Shah

Jake Stanfield

Trey Thomason

Gavin Walker

Each member of the court brings their own experiences and perspective to what it means to be a Buff.

For Trey Thomason, that starts with helping others feel like they belong.

“Being a Buff means helping create a community where people feel like they belong and can be their true authentic selves within that community,” Thomason said.

Freya Nagy sees being a Buff as embracing the opportunities that come with being part of CU �Ǹ�Թ�.

“To me, being a Buff means embracing everything CU has to offer with spirit, curiosity and an open mind,” Nagy said. “It means saying yes to new opportunities, stepping outside of your comfort zone and being willing to grow through new experiences, connections and challenges.”

And Katherine Little sees being a Buff as both carrying on a tradition and creating something of her own.

“Being a Buff is about more than tradition,” Little said. “It means showing up, welcoming others, taking pride in our community and helping make it better.”

Learn more about the 2026 Homecoming Court

Vote for 2026 Homecoming Royalty

Two members of the Homecoming Court will be selected as 2026 Homecoming Royalty, CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s highest Homecoming honor.

Student voting is one part of the overall selection process, which also considers each candidate’s leadership, campus involvement, commitment to the CU �Ǹ�Թ� community, school spirit and overall contributions to campus.

Cast your vote for Homecoming Royalty by Thursday, Oct. 1.

The 2026 Homecoming Royalty will be announced during the conclusion of Homecoming week.

Meet the 12 students selected for the 2026 CU �Ǹ�Թ� Homecoming Court and hear what being a Buff means to them. Learn more about this year’s court, then cast your vote for Homecoming Royalty by Oct. 1.

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Campus coffee and tea shops to fuel your semester

Emily Sampl — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 18:02:00 +0000

Campus coffee and tea shops to fuel your semester Emily Sampl Fri, 09/11/2026 - 12:02

Looking for a place on campus to connect, unwind or just feel at home? CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s coffee and tea shops are more than just spots to grab a drink—they’re where campus community happens.

Each café has its own unique vibe, whether you want a quiet corner to study, a cozy spot to meet new friends or a hangout between classes. Explore different locations and discover your favorite place to relax, recharge and belong on campus.

WeatherTech Cafe and Bakery

The C4C has many spaces and lounges for studying. Stop by the WeatherTech Café and Bakery on the first floor for specialty coffee, made‑from‑scratch pastries, and new Botrista beverages like refreshers, BobaChillers, smoothies, dessert drinks and milk teas.

Illy Coffee Vending Machine

The Illy coffee vending machine in the UMC offers convenient, high‑quality espresso and specialty beverages just outside of Elevations Credit Union.

The Laughing Goat

The Laughing Goat at Norlin Library is located in the Norlin Commons. Enjoy espresso drinks, coffee, tea, sandwiches and snacks with tables inside and outside the library’s southeast entrance.

Fen's Cafe

Head inside the ATLAS Center for fresh, delicious and healthy Taiwanese street food, pastries, boba teas and coffee drinks. ATLAS has study rooms on the second floor.

Violet Peak

With locations in the Engineering Center, Koelbel and Wolf Law buildings on central campus and the Aerospace Engineering building on east campus, Violet Peak offers everything from coffee and espresso to smoothies and sandwiches.

Stingers Cafe

There are two locations on campus, in the Biotech Building and Hellems, to stop by for coffee, breakfast, salads and sandwiches.

SEEC Café

Enjoy a full-service espresso bar at this restaurant located at Research Park in the SEEC building.

Foolish Craig’s Too

Located in the Porter Biosciences building, Foolish Craig’s Too serves �Ǹ�Թ� Organic Coffee and a selection of food items, including their award-winning bread made fresh daily in their bakery on Pearl Street.

Coffee on the go

If you’re on the move and want to grab something on your way to class, stop by one of the campus markets. Markets accept meal plans, Campus Cash, Munch Money, Flatiron Meal Plans and credit/debit cards.

Village Market: Located in Williams Village, Village Market proudly serves Starbucks beverages and other on-the-go necessities.

Kittredge Market: Located in the north wing of Kittredge Central, Kittredge Market offers a full-service espresso and tea bar with snacks. Check the Kittredge Market menu on Nutrislice.

Sewall Market: Located on north campus, Sewall offers coffee, teas, snacks, ice cream and student essentials.

UMC Market: This offers a variety of caffeinated beverage options to keep you going.

Looking for a place on campus to connect, unwind or just feel at home? CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s coffee and tea shops are more than just spots to grab a drink—they’re where campus community happens.

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Reusable takeout containers are one more step toward a more sustainable CU �Ǹ�Թ�

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 21:34:48 +0000

Reusable takeout containers are one more step toward a more sustainable CU �Ǹ�Թ� Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 09/09/2026 - 15:34

From electric Buff Buses to eliminating single-use plastics from campus beverage services, CU �Ǹ�Թ� continues to make changes to reduce waste and environmental impact. This fall, reusable takeout containers at select campus dining locations are one more step in that effort.

What students have said about campus sustainability

While the survey did not ask students about reusable takeout containers specifically, CU �Ǹ�Թ�'s 2023 Sustainability Survey showed broad support for campus sustainability efforts. Nine in 10 participants said it was important for CU �Ǹ�Թ� to have a strong public commitment to climate and the environment.

When asked for ideas to improve sustainability at CU �Ǹ�Թ�, about one in four students suggested reducing waste through efforts such as phasing out single-use products and reducing food waste.

Why reusable containers?

Single-use takeout containers require new materials for every meal to go, even when those containers can be composted. Reusable containers can reduce the amount of material CU �Ǹ�Թ� purchases and throws away while supporting broader campus sustainability and climate goals.

The idea for a reusable takeout container program at CU �Ǹ�Թ� was supported with funding from the CUSG Environmental Board. The program was then developed and implemented in partnership with Campus Dining & Hospitality and the Environmental Center.

The shift is also part of broader efforts to reduce dining waste. With USEFULL, CU �Ǹ�Թ� has been able to bring back food-scrap composting in select dining areas, helping divert more waste from the landfill.

How USEFULL works

The switch to reusable takeout containers means there are a few new steps when getting food to go from Alferd Packer Grill and the SEEC Cafe. To use a USEFULL container, you'll need to download the USEFULL app, create an account and add a form of payment.

There is no cost to borrow a container when you return it within three days. Your payment method is only charged if a container isn't returned within that time.

Learn how USEFULL works and what to know before your next visit.

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5 things to know about the UMC

Emily Sampl — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

5 things to know about the UMC Emily Sampl Fri, 08/28/2026 - 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.

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 �Ǹ�Թ� 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 �Ǹ�Թ� 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�Ǹ�Թ�Life on Instagram, Facebook and X to learn more about life on campus and how to get involved!

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5 ways to avoid legal trouble at CU �Ǹ�Թ� football games

Anonymous — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 16:16:30 +0000

5 ways to avoid legal trouble at CU �Ǹ�Թ� football games Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 08/27/2026 - 10:16

Student Legal Services

CU �Ǹ�Թ� football games are a big part of fall on campus. Whether you’re heading to Folsom Field, a tailgate or a watch party, a little planning can help you have a great game day without dealing with a ticket, court date or other unwanted consequences afterward.

Some situations come up more often than others. Here are five common ways students can run into legal or conduct issues during football games, and what you can do to avoid them.

1. Know the rules around alcohol

If you’re under 21, possessing or drinking alcohol can lead to legal consequences. Alcohol may also be restricted in certain locations or events, regardless of your age.

If you’re 21 or older and choose to drink, pace yourself and make a plan before the game. Eat beforehand, drink water and keep track of how much you’ve had. Avoid accepting drinks if you don’t know what’s in them, and keep an eye out for friends who may need help.

You can still be part of game-day activities without drinking. Whether you drink or not, having a plan can make it easier to enjoy the game and get home safely.

Learn more about looking out for yourself and others.

2. Plan a safe ride before you start drinking

If you choose to drink or use other substances, figure out how you’ll get home before the day gets going.

Colorado has laws against driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, and you don’t have to be extremely intoxicated to face consequences. Impaired driving can result in an arrest, incarceration, fines, license consequences and Student Code of Conduct violations—and, most importantly, can put you and others at risk.

The same caution applies to other ways of getting around. Alcohol and drugs can affect your judgment, coordination and reaction time when biking or using a scooter.

Instead, make a transportation plan. CU �Ǹ�Թ� students have options including public transportation with their Buff OneCard, CU NightRide in the evening, a designated sober driver or rideshare services.

The easiest time to make that decision is before you start celebrating.

3. Stay off the field unless you’re allowed to be there

A big win can make it tempting to follow the crowd onto the field. But entering restricted areas without permission can lead to legal or university consequences.

Celebrate from the stands and follow instructions from stadium staff about where you can and can’t go. Even if you see other fans heading onto the field, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have permission to follow them.

The same idea applies elsewhere in and around the stadium: Pay attention to signs, barriers and instructions from event staff.

4. Leave the souvenirs where you found them

A sign, traffic cone, stadium item or someone else’s property might seem like a funny game-day souvenir. Taking or damaging something that doesn’t belong to you, however, can turn a spontaneous decision into criminal charges for theft or criminal mischief (damaging property).

Those cases can involve more than paying for the item. Depending on the circumstances, you could face arrest, incarceration, fines, restitution or other legal consequences. A criminal case can also create complications later when applying for certain jobs or dealing with immigration matters.

If it isn’t yours, leave it where it is.

5. Know when someone needs help

There’s a difference between someone having a few drinks and becoming so intoxicated that they can’t safely take care of themselves.

Signs that someone may need immediate help can include being difficult to wake, vomiting repeatedly, having trouble breathing, experiencing a seizure or being unable to stay conscious. Don’t leave an intoxicated person alone or assume they can simply “sleep it off” if you’re concerned about their safety.

Getting someone help is more important than worrying about whether they might get in trouble.

Severe intoxication can also result in transportation to a hospital or detox facility and significant medical expenses. Knowing your limits, pacing yourself and looking out for friends can help prevent the situation from getting that far.

Understand the potential consequences

The consequences depend on what happened and the circumstances involved.

A citation or criminal case could involve arrest, incarceration, fines, court costs, restitution for damaged property, community service, education programs, probation or other requirements. Some cases can also affect driving privileges, employment, immigration status or other areas of your life.

Legal consequences aren't the only possibility. Behavior at football games, tailgates and other game-day activities may also fall under the Student Code of Conduct. Students may be referred to Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution separately from—or in addition to—any legal process.

The important thing to remember is that the outcome depends on the individual situation. If you receive a ticket, are arrested or are contacted about a student conduct case, get legal advice from an attorney about your specific circumstances rather than relying on what happened to a friend or what you find on social media.

Get help with legal or student conduct issues

Attorneys at Student Legal Services can help eligible CU �Ǹ�Թ� students understand their options and navigate legal and student conduct issues. Services can include legal advice and in-court representation for students who pay student activity fees.

Reaching out early can give you more time to understand what you’re dealing with and decide what to do next.

Whether you’re heading to Folsom Field, a tailgate or a watch party, a little planning can help you have a great game day without dealing with a ticket, court date or other unwanted consequences afterward. Here are five common ways students can run into legal or conduct issues during football games, and what you can do to avoid them.

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