4 ways students can use their voice at CU Boulder
Students have opportunities to help shape decisions that affect their experience at CU Boulder and the broader community. Getting involved can also help you connect with others, learn more about issues you care about and contribute your perspective.
Here are four ways to use your voice and make an impact.
Run for CU Student Government
If you have ideas about how to improve the student experience at CU Boulder, consider running for CU Student Government (CUSG).
CUSG gives students a direct role in campus decision-making. Student government leaders advocate for student needs, work with campus leadership, write legislation, plan programs and events and help determine how student fees are allocated. Representatives-at-large also collaborate on legislation and committees while advocating for the needs of CU Boulder students.
CUSG holds elections during the fall and spring semesters. Learn more about CUSG elections and running for office, including available positions, eligibility requirements and upcoming opportunities to get involved.
Vote in student and local elections
Voting is one of the simplest ways to have a say in decisions that affect your campus, community and everyday life.
Start by learning about the candidates and issues on your ballot, then make a plan to vote. For CU Student Government elections, check the CUSG elections page for current information about candidates, voting and election dates.
You can also participate in local and statewide elections. Colorado's 2026 midterm general election is Tuesday, Nov. 3. CU Boulder’s Civic Engagement resources include information about registering to vote, voting in Colorado and finding ballot drop boxes on campus.
Join a student board or committee
Student boards, councils and committees give you opportunities to share your ideas, advocate for other students and help shape campus programs, spaces and services. You can choose an opportunity based on the issues or communities you care about.
Some options include:
- Plan programs and events: The Center for Student Involvement Board, Cultural Events Board and Distinguished Speakers Board help bring programs, speakers and experiences to campus.
- Represent students: The Residence Hall Association, Senior Class Council, Off-Campus Life Board and other student leadership groups provide opportunities to represent student perspectives.
- Shape campus spaces and services: The CUSG Recreation Board and UMC Board give students opportunities to contribute to decisions about campus spaces and resources.
- Support sustainability and service: The Environmental Center Board and Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement Joint Board connect leadership with environmental, service and community issues.
- Recognize leadership in the residence halls: The National Residence Hall Honorary recognizes students and staff who demonstrate leadership and service in their residential communities.
Explore student boards and leadership opportunities to learn about available positions, eligibility and time commitments.
Get involved in your community
Civic engagement can take many forms beyond voting or holding a campus leadership position. You can volunteer, learn more about issues that matter to you, attend community events, contact elected officials or participate in organizations working on causes you care about.
The Center for Student Involvement’s Democratic Engagement Guide has resources to help you find ways to participate in your community and democracy.
Whether you have a few minutes or want to take on a larger role, there are many ways to make your voice heard and contribute to your community.