Commuting to campus? Here's how to make the most of your time
Commuting to campus comes with a different routine than living in the residence halls, but it doesn't mean you have to miss out on campus life. Whether you're driving, taking RTD or biking to campus, planning ahead can help you save time, reduce stress and make the most of your day.
From free public transit and bike resources to spaces where you can study, recharge and connect with fellow Buffs, CU Boulder has plenty of resources to support commuter students. Here are a few tips to help you have a smoother commute this semester.
Plan your commute before you leave
Starting your day with a plan can help you avoid unnecessary stress and make getting to campus easier.
All enrolled CU Boulder students can use their Buff OneCard to ride RTD buses and rails at no additional cost. If you're taking public transit, download the Transit app to check routes, track arrivals in real time and stay informed about delays or service changes. If you drive part of the way, consider using an RTD Park-n-Ride to combine driving with public transportation.
Prefer to bike? With Boulder's many sunny days, biking can be a great option for getting to campus. Register your bike at one of CU Boulder's bike stations for free access to bike stations and basic repair assistance.
Need a bike for part of your commute? CU Boulder students also receive a free BCycle membership through the Environmental Center, giving you access to electric-assist bikes throughout Boulder, including many locations near RTD stops.
Commuter tip: Before you leave home, check traffic or transit updates and pack everything you'll need for the day, like your Buff OneCard, phone charger, water bottle and lunch or snacks. Being prepared means fewer trips back to your car and less stress between classes.
Find your home base
One of the biggest adjustments for commuter students is figuring out what to do between classes. Instead of heading home or searching for a place to study, take advantage of spaces and services designed to help you stay comfortable while you're on campus.
Stop by the Commuter Lounge
Located in the University Memorial Center (UMC), the Commuter Lounge gives commuter students a place to study, recharge and connect throughout the day. Whether you have 30 minutes or several hours between classes, you can stop by to:
- Grab free coffee
- Heat up your lunch in the microwave
- Store food in the refrigerator
- Print assignments
- Use lockers while you're on campus
- Relax or study in a comfortable lounge space
The lounge is also staffed by beyond campus advisors—fellow students who have experience commuting to campus and can answer questions, share advice and help you find campus resources.
First-year undergraduate students automatically have access to the lounge. Returning undergraduate commuter students can complete a short form to gain access and receive updates about commuter resources and events.
Grab a meal without leaving campus
If you're spending the day on campus, there are plenty of convenient places to grab breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack between classes.
CU Boulder has 15 on-campus dining locations that accept Campus Cash as well as credit and debit cards. Use the Nutrislice app or website to browse menus, view nutrition information and filter options based on allergies or dietary preferences before deciding where to eat.
If you regularly eat on campus, Block Meal Swipes are available for students living off campus, in Bear Creek Apartments and in Graduate & Family Housing.
Be ready for weather and travel delays
Colorado weather can change quickly, and occasional snow, icy roads or transit delays may affect your commute.
If campus experiences weather-related delays or closures, you'll receive updates through the CU Alerts system. Make sure your phone number is up to date in Buff Portal so you can receive emergency text notifications in addition to email.
Transportation issues happen, whether it's a delayed bus, heavy traffic or severe weather. If you know you'll be late or need to miss class, contact your instructor as soon as possible. Let them know what's happening and ask about options for making up missed work.
Having a backup plan before you need one can make unexpected travel disruptions much less stressful.
Stay connected as a commuter student
Living off campus doesn't mean you have to miss out on the college experience.
Beyond Campus Buffs helps commuter and off-campus students build community through monthly events, campus resources and opportunities to connect with other students who understand the commuter experience.
Whether you're looking for new friends, ways to get involved or tips for navigating campus life, Beyond Campus Buffs is a great place to start.
For even more ways to stay connected, download the CU Boulder Life app and follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X for student events, campus resources and helpful tips throughout the semester.