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5 ways to develop leadership skills this semester

Journey leaders at move in

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. 

Apply for a leadership role 

Get hands-on experience while developing leadership skills with these opportunities.

  • CU in the Community project lead: Coordinate and direct volunteers while you spend a day making a positive impact while participating in meaningful service.
  • Journey leaders: Journey leaders are students within the New Student & Family Programs that welcome new Buffs to campus. You can gain valuable leadership experience while meeting new people and getting involved.
  • ASAP tutor mentor: ASAP tutor mentors work with students living in the residence halls and first-year students in paid tutoring positions. 

Most student organizations, fraternities and sororities also have leadership roles for students to fill. These roles offer a chance to develop various skills and experiences you can use well after your time at CU Boulder. Browse BuffConnect to explore student organizations by topic or alphabetical list. 

Join a leadership program

These programs allow you to gain leadership experience and meet fellow Buffs.

  • CU GOLD: Gaining Opportunities through Leadership Development (CU GOLD) offers students ways to develop leadership skills through several leadership program paths and opportunities.
  • Climate Justice Leadership Alliance: Work with other students, faculty and staff to develop and implement campus and community actions for climate justice. 

Work on campus

On-campus jobs are a convenient way to gain experience, earn money and build leadership skills. There are many student job roles with some positions offering opportunities to take on more responsibility over time. Search for on-campus jobs on Handshake. 

Participate on a student board or committee 

Use your voice and help make decisions that affect our campus community. Here are some opportunities to consider.

  • Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Board: Develop programs and educational opportunities to enrich the campus experience for CU Boulder students.
  • Cultural Events Board: Broaden cultural knowledge by supporting the voices of underrepresented and misrepresented groups on campus to promote student engagement with their platforms.
  • CU Student Government (CUSG): Serve your peers, make a difference and leave your mark at CU Boulder by participating in student government.
  • CUSG Recreation Board: Promote the improvement of the Recreation Center and the university community through planning and positive action.
  • Distinguished Speakers Board: Bring well-known speakers to campus and develop your skills in planning and implementing large-scale events.
  • Environmental Center Board: Advocate for campus environmental policy, determine funding for innovative sustainability projects, get practical experience and more.
  • National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH): Provide recognition for students and staff in the residence halls who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and who have made outstanding service contributions to their communities, CU and beyond.
  • Residence Hall Association (RHA): Foster and facilitate community among on-campus residents and promote a safe and comfortable living environment.
  • Senior Class Council: Keep seniors informed and involved while building pride, tradition and community among the graduating class.
  • UMC Board: Create policy, develop creative solutions to challenging issues and grow your leadership skills.
  • Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) Board: Through policy making, leadership and outreach, being part of the VRC Board can help you advocate for and provide services to meet campus and community needs. 

Look out for your fellow Buffs

Being a leader on campus can be more than joining a program or holding a position in your student organization. Our Colorado Creed reminds us that we build character based on our decisions and actions toward others. If you see something concerning, don’t hesitate to call for help. Know how to be an effective bystander and look out for other community members. 

Gaining leadership skills and experience to add to your resume can help when looking for a job or internship. Learn more about how to build professional skills and experience with Career Services. 

Learn more about getting involved this fall:

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