Large campus communities like CU Boulder offer a vibrant culture with a wide range of events, activities, programs and opportunities to get involved. However, navigating campus life may sometimes feel overwhelming if you have a more introverted personality. You can take steps to find your place and be involved in a way that honors your needs while giving you time and space to recharge. Here are ways to make the most of your college experience as an introvert.
Find a quiet space to study
If you live with roommates, finding a place where you can study and focus on your class assignments can feel challenging. You can look for a study spot or go to one of the university libraries to work and study in a quiet environment. You can also create a roommate agreement where you define quiet hours, guidelines regarding visitors and how to use shared spaces.
You may also find that meeting with your professor during office hours to ask questions may make you feel more comfortable and help you get the support you need.
Seek out community
Getting involved on campus is a great way to feel connected and develop a sense of belonging to the CU Boulder community. As an introvert, you may prefer smaller groups with more one-on-one interactions. Affinity groups through Fraternity and Sorority Life and the Center for Inclusion and Social Change (CISC) can offer students a place to connect with others and build friendships.
You can also sign up for events with more structure, like DIY Nights, Ralphie’s Cooking Basics or tournaments at The Connection. CU Boulder has hundreds of student organizations where you can find groups to match your interests.
Know your limits
College can feel busy. If you need time away from people to recharge your energy, consider scheduling downtime into your routine. This may look different for everyone. You might benefit from going for a walk, resting quietly in your room, playing video games or reading a book.
Pay attention to what works best for you and how much time you need to recharge. Communicate with your roommate, family and friends about these needs so they can honor this time. It is OK to say no to plans sometimes and take time to rest and recharge.
Give yourself time
Be kind to yourself as you adjust to life at college. It may take time to figure out what works best. And if you’ve been at CU Boulder for a while and feel like you want to get more involved, you still have time. No matter where you are in your college journey, you can tap into resources. For example, you could sign up to volunteer through the Volunteer Resource Center, attend workshops offered by Career Services or sign up for an Intramural Sports team.
You can be who you are here and find your place.
Stay connected
CU Boulder offers many resources to help you feel connected and supported. Check out more ways to get involved from the Division of Student Affairs. Stay connected to campus events by downloading the CU Boulder Life app or following @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X (Twitter).