“Getting involved” can look different for every student, depending on where they are in their academic journey. Getting involved helps new students meet friends and find a close-knit community on campus. If your student is in their third or fourth year, they may be looking to add to their resume and develop leadership skills. Here are some ways your student can get involved this year.
Explore interests and hobbies
- There are over 400 student organizations and groups at CU Boulder. Whether your student is interested in politics, outdoor activities, artistic expression or social justice, there’s something for everyone! Encourage them to browse BuffConnect. This is CU Boulder’s directory of student organizations supported by the Center for Student Involvement.
- The Rec Center is a great place for students to get involved and meet fellow Buffs. They can join intramural and club sports, take fitness classes or participate in the Outdoor Program.
- The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program allows students to get hands-on experience in a research or creative project. They also can connect with a faculty mentor.
Find community and meet new people
- Does your student live in a residence hall on campus? Encourage them to attend hall events, visit the community center and participate in their hall council.
- SoberBuffs is a student organization for students who are in recovery or are interested in pursuing a sober lifestyle. This group regularly hosts substance-free social events, and is a great way for students to meet like-minded people.
- The Alternative Breaks program sends groups of students to engage in service projects over college breaks. Students can apply to participate in or lead a trip.
- The Center for Inclusion and Social Change and Dennis Small Cultural Center provide a diverse range of events and programs throughout the year, creating inclusive environments where students of all identities can find community.
Leadership and professional development
- CU GOLD provides free leadership development programs that are open to all students. Programs include weekly seminars, service projects and workshops for student organizations.
- CU Student Government is another way for students to build leadership skills and gain experience to use beyond their years at CU Boulder.
- There are many student jobs available on campus for a variety of skillsets. An on-campus job allows students to meet others, become familiar with campus services and gain experience.
- Encourage your student to attend workshops, panel events and career fairs from Career Services for networking and professional development.
If your student doesn’t have much time to commit to an organization or program, there are still ways to get involved! There are many free campus events (often with food) throughout the academic year. These include speakers, free movie screenings of new releases, video game tournaments, comedy shows and more. Encourage your student to check the CU Events Calendar and read CU Boulder Today to find upcoming campus events.