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5 ways to find queer joy during LGBTQ+ History Month

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 21:55:34 +0000

5 ways to find queer joy during LGBTQ+ History Month Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 09/23/2026 - 15:55

Center for Cultural Connections & Community

October is LGBTQ+ History Month, a time to recognize LGBTQ+ history, experiences and contributions. It can also be an opportunity to celebrate queer joy—the connection, creativity, self-expression and community that LGBTQ+ people have created and shared throughout history.

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or want to learn and show support, there are ways to explore queer history and culture, connect with others and make time for joy this month.

Learn something new about LGBTQ+ history

LGBTQ+ History Month began in 1994 through the efforts of Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson and others who wanted greater recognition of LGBTQ+ history.

Use the month as an opportunity to explore people and events you may not have encountered in class. You could learn about LGBTQ+ contributions within your major or an area that interests you, from art and literature to science and technology.

For a place to start, explore these reads about LGBTQ+ history. You can also test your knowledge with LGBTQ+ history trivia and games at Queer Brunch at the C4C on Oct. 21, an event open to all students that also includes brunch-for-dinner and opportunities to connect with the LGBTQ+ community.

Explore stories from the LGBTQ+ community

Books, movies, podcasts, exhibits and other forms of storytelling can offer a window into LGBTQ+ experiences across different times and communities.

For example, learn about the 1966 Compton’s Cafeteria riot, an important event in transgender history that occurred several years before the Stonewall uprising. The documentary Screaming Queens: The Riot at Compton’s Cafeteria, available through University Libraries, explores the uprising and the experiences of transgender people in San Francisco at the time.

You can also explore how LGBTQ+ identities and experiences intersect with popular culture. Throughout October, visit the What a QUEER Creature!: Horror and the LGBTQ+ Community exhibit in Abrams Lounge in the Center for Community to explore connections between horror, ideas about what society considers “normal” and LGBTQ+ experiences.

Express yourself

Clothes, art, music, performance and other creative outlets can be ways to explore identity and express what brings you joy.

Try something new, revisit a creative activity you enjoy or attend an event where you can celebrate alongside others. The Pride team’s It Came From the Closet: Queer Costume Party on Oct. 29 offers one opportunity to get creative and connect with the campus community during LGBTQ+ History Month.

Make time for fun and connection

College life can get busy, and stressful news or social media can add to the noise. Making time for activities you enjoy can give you a chance to recharge and connect with others.

As part of Pride Month, the Rec Center is hosting inclusive events throughout October, including climbing, skating and swimming opportunities. You can also look for other campus events, student organizations and activities where you can meet people who share your interests.

Share what you learn

LGBTQ+ history is part of history. As you learn about LGBTQ+ people, events and contributions, look for opportunities to bring that knowledge into your everyday life.

Share an interesting story with a friend, explore LGBTQ+ figures connected to your field of study or attend an event that introduces you to a new perspective. If you’re supporting LGBTQ+ friends or community members, listening, learning and showing genuine interest can go a long way.

Explore LGBTQ+ resources and community at CU �Ǹ�Թ�

The Pride team, part of the Center for Cultural Connections & Community, provides programs, events and resources to help LGBTQ+ students find support and community at CU �Ǹ�Թ�.

Explore LGBTQ+ resources to find on-campus support related to housing and facilities, health and well-being and opportunities to find connection.

You can also contact the Pride team with questions or to learn more about programs and resources.

Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month by exploring queer joy at CU �Ǹ�Թ�. Learn about LGBTQ+ history and culture, discover stories and contributions from the community, find opportunities for creativity and connection, and explore campus events and resources. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, there are many ways to participate.

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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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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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5 ways to build your resume and gain career experience

Emily Sampl — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 17:45:13 +0000

5 ways to build your resume and gain career experience Emily Sampl Tue, 09/15/2026 - 11:45

Career Services

The experience you gain in college can help you build skills, strengthen your resume and feel more prepared for your first job.

You don’t need to know exactly what career you want before you start gaining experience. Internships, campus jobs, volunteer opportunities and short online programs can all help you build skills, strengthen your resume and learn what kind of work interests you.

Here are five ways to gain career experience this semester.

Find an internship

Want hands-on experience in your field? An internship can help you apply what you’re learning, build professional connections and explore what you want from a future job.

Search Handshake for internships or explore CU �Ǹ�Թ� internship programs for specialized opportunities and experiences. New internships are added regularly, so check Handshake often as you search.

Build skills and earn a credential

Want to build a specific skill on your own schedule? Career Academy offers free, self-paced online courses and professional certificates from companies like Google, Adobe and Salesforce.

You can develop practical skills in areas such as data analytics, project management, cybersecurity and digital marketing while earning credentials you can add to your resume or LinkedIn profile.

Try a job simulation

Not sure what career interests you yet? A job simulation can help you explore different roles before committing to an internship or job.

Through Forage, you can complete free online simulations based on tasks from real jobs and industries. It’s a low-pressure way to learn what different careers involve, practice skills and discover what kinds of work you enjoy.

Get an on-campus student job

Want to earn money while gaining experience? An on-campus job can help you build transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management.

Campus jobs are also designed with student schedules in mind. Explore student jobs at CU �Ǹ�Թ� to learn more and find opportunities.

Gain experience through volunteering

Want to build skills while contributing to something you care about? Volunteering can help you gain experience, meet new people and explore interests outside the classroom.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) can help you find volunteer opportunities based on your interests and availability.

Choose one way to get started

You don’t have to do everything at once. Choose one experience that fits your interests, goals and schedule this semester. Even a short course, campus job, job simulation or volunteer opportunity can help you build skills and learn more about what you want from your career.

These are just a few ways to gain experience during college. You can also explore opportunities in areas like research, leadership and entrepreneurship. Not sure where to begin? Career Services can help you explore your options and take your next step.

Build your resume and gain career experience this semester. Explore five ways to get started, from internships and on-campus jobs to volunteering, job simulations and free online courses. Find an option that fits your interests, goals and schedule while building skills and learning more about what you want from your career.

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Why you should run for CU Student Government

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:37:25 +0000

Why you should run for CU Student Government Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 09/11/2026 - 10:37

CU Student Government

If you care about life at CU �Ǹ�Թ�—whether it’s student fees, campus events, safety, academic experience or representation—CU Student Government (CUSG) is one of the most direct ways to make an impact. And right now, applications are open for the fall 2026 election.

What CUSG does

CUSG is the voice of CU �Ǹ�Թ� students. It’s made up of students who work to make sure your ideas, concerns and experiences are heard at every level of campus decision-making.

Student government leaders:

Advocate for student needs and meet with campus leadership

Plan programs and events throughout the year

Write legislation to improve campus life

Allocate student fees so they’re reinvested into meaningful student-focused initiatives

In the past year, CUSG has helped fund student organizations, support Homecoming events and host open forums highlighting diverse and underrepresented communities. They also sit on major campus committees, like the CU Police Department Oversight Board and university search committees, so student perspectives influence big decisions.

How CUSG is structured

CUSG has three branches—similar to the U.S. government—run entirely by students:

Executive Branch

Led by the three student-body presidents (the tri-executives) and the executive cabinet. They work directly with students and campus leaders, set priorities, and keep communication flowing across campus.

Legislative Branch

Includes the Representative Council and the Council of Colleges and Schools. These students create legislation that aims to improve campus life—everything from funding student organizations to shaping campus policies.

Judicial Branch

The Appellate Court ensures all decisions and processes are transparent, constitutional and fair.

Reasons why you should run for office

Running for CUSG is a chance to:

Shape decisions that impact 38,000+ students

Build leadership skills that stand out on resumes and grad school applications

Advocate for communities you care about

Directly influence how student fees are spent

Connect with administrators and student organizations across campus

Make a real difference in campus life now and for future Buffs

If you’ve ever thought, “Someone should change that,” you might be the person who should run.

How to get involved

The fall 2026 CUSG Run for Office packets are now open through Oct. 19, and there are several ways to get involved.

Review open positions

Representative-at-large positions: Representatives vote on how student fees are allocated, collaborate on legislation and committees, and advocate for the needs of all CU �Ǹ�Թ� students.

To run, you must:

Be in good academic standing

Have paid all student fees

Meet all requirements outlined in the CUSG Election Code

Apply

Submit your application on Handshake.

After applying, you’ll receive the official Election Packet and next steps from the CUSG Election Commissioner.

Questions? Email cusg.elections@colorado.edu.

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3 ways to make friends through campus activities

Anonymous — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000

3 ways to make friends through campus activities Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 09/04/2026 - 00:00

Listen to this article

Want to meet new people and make friends at CU �Ǹ�Թ�? Getting involved in campus activities can make it easier. Student organizations, events, volunteering, recreation and campus jobs give you opportunities to spend time with people who share your interests.

Not sure where to start? Here are a few ways to find activities (and people!) you enjoy.

1. Start with something you’re interested in

With so many students, organizations and activities at CU �Ǹ�Թ�, narrowing your options can make getting involved feel more manageable. Start with something you already enjoy or have been wanting to try.

Into hiking, gaming, crafting, sports, volunteering or something else? Explore ways to meet others with similar hobbies and interests. You can also browse student organizations to find groups based on interests, activities, academics and more.

You don’t have to commit right away. Attend a meeting or event and see what you think. Trying something new can help you discover activities you enjoy and communities you want to be part of.

2. Explore different ways to get involved

Student organizations aren’t the only way to meet people. Think about what fits your interests, schedule and comfort level.

Attend campus events
Check out student events or activities happening in your residence hall. Events give you a chance to do something fun while spending time around other students.

Volunteer
Volunteering can connect you with people who care about some of the same causes you do. Browse volunteer opportunities on campus and in the �Ǹ�Թ� community.

Get active
Group fitness classes, intramural sports, Outdoor Pursuits and other Campus Recreation & Well-Being programs offer ways to meet people while doing something active.

Work on campus
A student job can help you earn money, gain experience and get to know other students and staff.

Pick one opportunity that sounds interesting and start there.

3. Turn showing up into connection

Getting involved creates opportunities to meet people, but you may need to give those connections time to develop.

If you enjoy an activity, go back. Attending regularly can help you get to know the people around you and become part of the group. Look for other ways to participate, too—help with an event, volunteer for a project or take on a role that interests you.

As you get to know people, you can also extend the connection beyond the activity. Ask someone if they’re coming to the next meeting, walk to class together or invite them to another campus event.

You don't need to find your closest friends right away. Start by finding places where you enjoy spending your time and people you'd like to get to know better.

Find ways to get involved

Center for Student Involvement
Explore student organizations, events, leadership opportunities and other ways to get involved on campus.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement
Volunteer, learn new skills and connect with people who share your interests in making a difference.

Campus Recreation & Well-Being
Try group fitness, intramural sports, Outdoor Pursuits, Inclusive Rec and other activities.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community
Connect with programs and opportunities that build community and celebrate identity, diversity and belonging.

Peer Wellness Coaching

Meet one-on-one with a trained peer to talk about well-being, goals, navigating college life and finding community.

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Meet Sustainable Buffs: Find your way to get involved at CU �Ǹ�Թ�

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:49:27 +0000

Meet Sustainable Buffs: Find your way to get involved at CU �Ǹ�Թ� Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 09/01/2026 - 10:49

Environmental Center

Interested in sustainability but not sure where to start? Maybe you already bike or take the bus, want to waste less food or are simply curious to learn more.

Sustainable Buffs is CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s community of students, staff and faculty who are working toward a more sustainable campus.

And there’s no one way to be a Sustainable Buff. You don’t need to know everything about sustainability or change everything you do. Start with something that interests you, learn more and see where it takes you.

Sustainable Buffs is organized around five pillars that connect sustainability to everyday campus life. Each offers a different way to explore sustainability and how to get involved.

Here are five places you can start.

1. Resource conservation: Make your space more sustainable

“I am a Sustainable Buff because I turn my food waste into compost.” - Grace

Resource conservation for a Sustainable Buff is about using food, energy, and water thoughtfully and finding ways to reduce waste.

An EcoVisit is an easy place to start. You’ll meet with a peer sustainability expert who can answer your questions about how to recycle and compost and help you find practical ways to save energy and water where you live.

Students who participate receive a free EcoKit with items such as reusable utensils, LED light bulbs and a low-flow showerhead.

Try it: Book an EcoVisit.

2. Zero waste: Learn where your stuff goes

Ever stood in front of the recycling, compost and trash bins wondering where something goes? You’re not alone.

Zero waste is about using less, reusing what we can and keeping materials out of the landfill when possible. At CU �Ǹ�Թ�, you can see these efforts in residence halls, dining spaces, campus events and other places you visit every day.

One way to get involved is Ralphie’s Green Stampede, where volunteers help make CU �Ǹ�Թ� athletic events more sustainable. It’s a chance to meet other students, learn more about zero waste and make a difference at a Buffs game.

Try it: Volunteer with Ralphie’s Green Stampede.

3. Transportation: Find your way around

Want to explore your options for getting around campus and �Ǹ�Թ�?

Your Buff OneCard gives you access to eligible bus services, and the Transit app can help you plan trips and see when your bus is coming. If biking is more your speed, CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s bike stations can help with repairs and maintenance, and you can register your bike on campus.

Whether you bike, bus, walk, scoot or use a mix, you can find an option that works for you.

Try it: Register your bike or stop by a CU �Ǹ�Թ� bike station.

4. Climate justice: Explore connections between people and the environment

What does sustainability have to do with people, communities and history?

Climate justice explores how environmental issues can affect people and communities differently—and how we can work toward solutions that are more equitable.

You don’t need to be an expert to join the conversation. The Environmental Center’s Energy and Climate Justice program offers opportunities to learn, ask questions and connect with others, including events and educational experiences.

Try it: Join an upcoming Climate Justice Team event, such as the Native Fall Foraging Series.

5. Governance: Turn your ideas into action

Have an idea for making CU �Ǹ�Թ� more sustainable?

Students have helped shape sustainability efforts across campus, and there are ways to add your ideas and voice.

For example, the Sustainable CU Grant helps fund student, staff and faculty projects that advance sustainability at CU �Ǹ�Թ�. Students can also learn about campus sustainability efforts and opportunities to participate through the Environmental Board.

You don’t have to wait until you’re an expert to get involved. Curiosity and a good idea are enough to get started.

Try it: Explore other ways to get involved in sustainability at CU �Ǹ�Թ�.

Start with what interests you

"I'm a Sustainable Buff because my favorite thing about learning about regenerative agriculture practices is sharing that knowledge with friends." - Isabella

Being a Sustainable Buff doesn’t mean doing everything on this list. You might start by learning where to recycle, taking the bus somewhere new, volunteering at a football game or showing up to an event because the topic sounds interesting.

Start where you are. Find what matters to you. Take one step. Then see where it leads.

Ready to explore? Take the Sustainable Buffs Pledge and discover Environmental Center programs, events and resources that can help you find your place in sustainability at CU �Ǹ�Թ�.

Curious about sustainability or looking for ways to get involved? Sustainable Buffs connects you with opportunities to learn, take action and meet others at CU �Ǹ�Թ�. Explore five pillars of sustainability—from zero waste and transportation to climate justice—and find a place to start that matches your interests.

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Ready to be part of something big? Volunteer at Buffs Big Event

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 22:41:29 +0000

Ready to be part of something big? Volunteer at Buffs Big Event Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/31/2026 - 16:41

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement

On Oct. 10, CU �Ǹ�Թ� students, faculty and staff will join community members across �Ǹ�Թ� for the inaugural Buffs Big Event, a community-wide day of service hosted by Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE).

Volunteers will work together on projects throughout the city, including creek cleanup, garden maintenance, house construction and other hands-on projects identified by local organizations.

You can register on your own, volunteer with a group or sign up as a team lead—no previous volunteer experience is needed.

Connect through service

Buffs Big Event is an opportunity to meet new people and care for the places we share.

In partnership with the Division of Student Life, the city of �Ǹ�Թ� and local organizations, volunteers will take part in projects that respond to needs identified by local partners.

Each project offers a different way to participate, connect with others and learn more about people and places around you.

Volunteer on your own or with a group

If you’d like to sign up to volunteer on your own, you’ll be placed on a team based on your assigned project. It’s a great way to meet other participants while working together.

Want to volunteer with friends, classmates, coworkers, a student organization or club? Register as a group. Each person must complete their own registration and use the same group name. Groups larger than 15 may be split based on project needs.

Take on a bigger role as a team lead

Interested in helping lead a volunteer team? Sign up as a team lead by Sept. 18.

Team leads help welcome and support volunteers, coordinate tasks and keep projects on track. Team leads will attend two training sessions before Buffs Big Event to prepare for the role.

Be part of a new community tradition

Buffs Big Event is part of CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s 150th anniversary celebration and a new tradition focused on service, connection and community.

The event brings CU �Ǹ�Թ� and the broader �Ǹ�Թ� community together to work side by side, build relationships and care for shared spaces. It’s one way to celebrate CU �Ǹ�Թ�’s history while strengthening connections that can continue well beyond one day of service.

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Find your way to lead at CU �Ǹ�Թ�

Valerie Padilla — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 18:02:00 +0000

Find your way to lead at CU �Ǹ�Թ� Valerie Padilla Tue, 08/25/2026 - 12:02

You don’t need a title or previous leadership experience to be a leader on campus. Whether you want to meet people, make a difference, earn money, build your resume or get more involved in the CU �Ǹ�Թ� community, there are plenty of ways to build leadership skills.

Not sure where to start? Explore these student leadership opportunities at CU �Ǹ�Թ� and find an option that fits your interests and goals.

Take on a student leadership role

Want hands-on experience working with other Buffs? Student leadership positions let you build skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving and event planning while making an impact on campus.

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

Residential student leaders: Live and work in the residence halls, support fellow Buffs and help create an inclusive residential community.

Journey leader: Welcome new Buffs to CU �Ǹ�Թ�, meet new people and help students find their place on campus.

ASAP tutor mentor: Get paid to tutor and mentor students living in the residence halls and first-year students.

Student organizations, fraternities and sororities also offer opportunities to lead. Depending on the group, you might organize events, manage a budget, recruit members, run communications or help set the organization’s direction.

Explore student organizations on BuffConnect to find groups that match your interests.

Build your skills through a leadership program

Leadership programs can help you develop new skills, connect with other students and learn more about the kind of leader you want to be.

CU GOLD: Build leadership skills through different program paths and opportunities.

Bloom: Student organization leaders can connect with a peer mentor or mentee to exchange advice, support each other’s goals and grow together. and grow together.

EcoReps: Build leadership and sustainability skills through workshops, field trips, volunteer opportunities and hands-on projects while helping create positive change in your residence hall community.

Get leadership experience through a campus job

Want to build experience and earn money? An on-campus student job can be a great place to start.

Student jobs can help you develop transferable skills like communication, time management, teamwork and problem-solving. Some positions also give you opportunities to train others, lead projects or take on more responsibility over time.

Search Handshake for on-campus student jobs and look for roles that match your interests, schedule and career goals.

Use your voice on a board or committee

If you have ideas about how to make CU �Ǹ�Թ� better, consider joining a student board, council or committee. These groups give students opportunities to advocate for their peers, help make decisions, plan programs and shape the campus experience.

Depending on what you’re interested in, you can:

Plan programs and events: The Center for Student Involvement Board, Cultural Events Board and Distinguished Speakers Board offer opportunities to help bring events, speakers and experiences to campus.

Represent other students: CU Student Government, the Residence Hall Association, the Off-Campus Life Board and Senior Class Council give students a voice in the CU �Ǹ�Թ� experience.

Shape campus spaces and services: The CUSG Recreation Board and UMC Board help students contribute to decisions about important campus spaces and resources.

Make an impact through sustainability and service: The Environmental Center Board and Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement Joint Board connect leadership with environmental, service and community issues.

Recognize residential leaders: The National Residence Hall Honorary recognizes students and staff who demonstrate leadership and service in CU �Ǹ�Թ� residence hall communities.

Explore the individual boards and committees to learn about eligibility, time commitments and how to get involved.

Lead in everyday moments

Leadership doesn’t always come with a position or title. You can lead by welcoming someone new, speaking up when something isn’t right, helping a classmate, making your organization more inclusive or looking out for another Buff.

The Colorado Creed reminds us that our choices and actions help shape our community. Learn how to be an effective bystander, recognize concerning situations and get help when someone may need it.

Turn your experience into career skills

The skills you build through campus involvement—communication, collaboration, decision-making, problem-solving and project management—can also help prepare you for internships and jobs.

Career Services can help you identify the skills you’re developing and show you how to communicate those experiences on your resume and in interviews.

Find your next opportunity

There’s no single way to be a leader at CU �Ǹ�Թ�. Start with something that matters to you, whether that’s supporting other Buffs, getting involved in an organization, earning money through a campus job or helping shape the university community.

Learn more about getting involved this fall:

Check out upcoming student events.

Download the CU �Ǹ�Թ� Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Follow @CU�Ǹ�Թ�Life on Instagram, Facebook and X.

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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Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 19:22:25 +0000

Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/13/2026 - 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 �Ǹ�Թ�. 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�Ǹ�Թ�Life 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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Get Involved

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