August 25, 2017
Welcome to the University of Colorado Boulder! We are delighted that you chose to attend CU Boulder and we look forward to all that you will do, during your time on campus and as a Forever Buff!
As the Class of 2021, you are the most diverse class of students in our history and you are well prepared academically for the challenges that lie ahead. You are exceptionally well-equipped to carry on the Buff legacy of scholarship, citizenship and success!
As Chancellor, my top priority is your success. It is important to me that you have an experience that makes you want to come back day after day, and year after year. That does not mean that we won’t challenge you, you will face challenges along the way, or that your time at CU Boulder will be easy. The value of a CU Boulder degree is that you earn it; it is not given.
As a Buff, I challenge you to:
Be dedicated: Dedicate yourself to your academic experience. Find courses and research that excite you, opportunities to gain hands-on experience, and ways to customize your education to fit your unique interests.
Know that we are here to support you – take advantage of tutoring that is available in the residence halls, go to office hours to talk with your professors and instructors, and get one-on-one support, or reach out to your advisor for advice.
Be connected: Connect with students who share your interests. Attend Fall Welcome programs and start meeting other students who are new to campus, join one of hundreds of student clubs or organizations based on your interests, or be active by joining an intramural sports team.
Know that we are here to support you – stop by the Center for Student Involvement, the Dean of Students Office or New Student & Family Programs. All can help you find ways to get involved and connect you.
Be committed. Commit to completing your degree and graduating. The value of your degree will pay off in your ability to think critically, the career opportunities that lie ahead, and the connections that you will make.
Our Career Services Office can help you find jobs and internships; faculty can connect you to opportunities in your field. Your earning potential and career satisfaction will far exceed those who don’t graduate from college.
Be Boulder. Act with honor, integrity and accountability in interactions with each other. Respect the rights of others and accept our differences. Contribute to the greater good of the community.
These words are known as our Colorado Creed. It was developed by students for students, and for the entire campus community. It was developed by your predecessors who sat where you sit now. We live by these words and you will see them etched on flagstones and walls all around campus.
The Colorado Creed has never been more relevant after what we have witnessed recently at communities across the nation. We encourage you to be curious to learn about people from other places, cultures, backgrounds and beliefs and to actively engage with each other in a respectful manner. You will be surprised by what you will learn.
Know that we are here to support you. This is an exciting time. Have a great year! Welcome to the Buffalo Family! Go Buffs!