Pre-Arrival Programs

Start Your CU Boulder Experience Early

Pre-Arrival Programs provide incoming first-year and transfer students with an opportunity to move in early, build meaningful connections, develop leadership skills, and become familiar with campus before the start of the academic year.

Whether you're interested in leadership development, community building, or sustainability initiatives, Pre-Arrival Programs help students begin their CU Boulder experience with confidence, connection, and a strong sense of belonging.

Participants move in early, connect with other incoming students, engage with campus resources, and develop skills that support success throughout their college experience.

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Why Participate?

Students who participate in Pre-Arrival Programs have the opportunity to:

Move in early and become comfortable with campus before move-in weekend
Meet other incoming students and build lasting friendships
Learn about campus resources and involvement opportunities
Develop leadership skills and confidence
Connect with returning student leaders and mentors
Build a strong sense of community and belonging before classes begin

Stampede Leadership Camp

Stampede Leadership Camp is a four-day pre-arrival experience designed for incoming students who want to build leadership skills, connect with peers, and become engaged members of the CU Boulder community.

Through leadership workshops, service projects, campus partner sessions, small-group experiences, and interactive activities, participants explore opportunities for involvement while developing the skills needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Students are placed into small groups led by returning student leaders who help participants navigate campus life, build connections, and explore opportunities for engagement.

Program Highlights:

Leadership development workshops
Community-building activities
Service experiences
Campus resource exploration
Small-group mentorship
Opportunities to connect with student organizations and campus partners

Eligibility:

First-year students
Transfer students

Program Dates: August 14–17, 2026

Commitment: Participants must be able to participate in the full program experience.

EcoReps Pre-Arrival Program

EcoReps is a year-long sustainability leadership program that begins with an immersive pre-arrival experience.

Designed for students interested in sustainability, environmental responsibility, and peer education, EcoReps provides opportunities to explore sustainability initiatives, participate in experiential learning, and develop leadership skills that can be applied throughout the academic year.

Following the pre-arrival experience, participants continue as members of the EcoReps program, serving as sustainability ambassadors within residential communities.

Program Highlights: