As the semester begins, you may notice some messages around campus—chalk messages on the sidewalks, event posters covering bulletin boards and people talking about “getting involved.” But what does this mean for you?
Getting involved can look different for everyone and doesn’t need to cost a fortune. It can be as simple as attending campus events when you have time, or it can be more of a commitment when joining an organization or program. However you choose to get involved, participating in events and programs can help you meet new friends, discover new interests or hobbies and even explore different career paths. Here are some options to check out this semester if you want to get more involved.
Join a student organization
Did you know that CU Boulder has over 500 student organizations? Whether you’re interested in politics, outdoor activities, artistic expression, social justice or more, there’s something for everyone! Visit BuffConnect to explore student groups by topic or alphabetical list. Some student organizations require dues or other fees to cover operational costs.
If you can’t find a group that matches your interests, start an organization of your own! The Center for Student Involvement (CSI) provides resources to help you plan events, raise funds and grow your organization.
Attend campus events
Attending free student events on campus is a great way to get involved. Each semester, there are hundreds of events, workshops and opportunities for students to meet fellow Buffs and have fun! Events range from DIY nights and fitness classes to career fairs and trivia nights, so there’s something for everyone. Review upcoming student events and download the CU Boulder Life mobile app to stay current with what’s happening.
Give back to your community
Volunteering is a great way to get involved on campus and in the Boulder area. Not only can you make a positive difference in your community, but there are plenty of opportunities to fit your schedule. Visit the Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) to learn more, check out CU in the Community for one-time service opportunities or search CUServes for a wide variety of options within the Boulder community.
Find community at the Center for Inclusion and Social Change
Participate in community-building programs, educational workshops and inclusive events at the Center for Inclusion and Social Change. The center provides support and engagement for students across multiple identities. Learn more about how their offices, programs, events and resources can support you:
Work on campus
In addition to earning money, working on campus is a convenient way to meet new people and gain work experience for your resume. One of the major perks of working at an on-campus job is flexibility. Most on-campus jobs and paid research studies offer flexible scheduling to fit your classes and other commitments. Check out on-campus student job opportunities.
Hang out at The Connection
While some of the activities at The Connection include a fee, there are many activities that students can participate in for free. You can check out board games for free to play with friends while you hang out. Students can also attend free weekly events, including trivia nights and ping pong, poker, billiards and Super Smash Bros tournaments.
Visit Career Services
Career Services provides free services to help students with skill development and the job or internship search. From the free headshot photo booth to weekly workshops and events, students can learn ways to build skills, gain experience and set themselves up for success. Plus, you can meet other students who are also preparing for their job and internship searches.
Connect with the Environmental Center
If you are passionate about sustainability, the Environmental Center (E-Center) provides many free ways for students to get involved. You can join the Sustainable Buffs Community, attend events, volunteer with Ralphie’s Green Stampede and even find an on-campus job. Connecting with the E-Center is a great way to meet like-minded people, gain experience and follow your passion.
Other free resources
Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X (Twitter) for more ways to get involved this semester. You can connect to other free resources on campus to help meet your needs and promote well-being.