College is a time to be curious and try new things. It's a time to explore your interests and discover new ones. Whatever your interests, hobbies or passions may be, exploring new ways to learn and get involved can help you connect with fellow Buffs.
Are you curious about the world around you? Do you like to meet people from different backgrounds and have conversations that help you gain a new perspective? There are many opportunities on campus for you to connect with people that have similar interests. From student organizations and cultural programs to events throughout the semester, here are different ways to connect with others if you want to learn more about other cultures.
Discover campus programs
The beginning of the school year is a great time to learn about programs and opportunities available that involve cultural learning. Here are some places to get started.
Buff Connect: With over 500 student organizations, there is something for everyone. The list is organized by category to help you find and explore new organizations. Try the “cultural and international” category to find an organization that sounds interesting to you.
Center for Inclusion and Social Change (CISC): Build community, enhance your cultural awareness and gain new skills by attending CISC events. The center provides co-curricular educational programs, including workshops, trainings and conferences, focused on cultural competence, diversity, equity and social justice. It also aims to cultivate a sense of belonging by nurturing innovative spaces that educate and celebrate diverse communities. The center is part of the division of Diversity, Equity and Community Engagement (ODECE).
Dennis Small Cultural Center (DSCC): The DSCC provides opportunities to explore diversity through dynamic programs, events, entertainment and activities that encourage participants to cross boundaries of cultural difference.
Cultural Events Board (CEB): Enrich your educational experience and develop your understanding of culture, diversity and social awareness at CEB events and programs. Whether you learn how to dance the Bhangra to Hindi pop music, attend a drag show, or watch a documentary about artistic movements in the Middle East – your opportunities are endless. You can also apply to join the CEB Board to bring speakers to campus and learn about cultural events taking place and help plan them!
CU International Festival (iFest): The CU International Festival is the largest student organized event on campus. Learn about different cultures through booths, performances, food and interactive activities. For a deeper connection, join the iFest committee and be part of a diverse group of people to celebrate cultural diversity on campus!
Volunteer Resource Center (VRC): The Volunteer Resource Center has many opportunities for you to get involved. Their service programs work with diverse community partners and connect students to the community. Not to mention, service is also a great way to learn about culture, identities and people’s lived experiences in communities with diverse populations.
Attend events
A great way to meet people who share your interests and learn something together is by attending events. Be on the lookout for activities you can be a part of to learn more!
- Buffs One Read events
- Diversity and Inclusion Summit (fall and spring)
- International Coffee Hour (weekly)
- Conference on World Affairs (spring)
- Events hosted by student organizations
- International Festival (virtual)
- Center for Inclusion and Social Change events
- Cultural Events Board events
- Dennis Small Cultural Center events
Try things on your own
If you’d like to explore on your own or with a friend, here are a few suggestions of activities you can do in your own time.
- Check out books or movies about people from cultures or backgrounds that are different from your own. University Libraries has a variety of collections you can choose from.
- Invite a friend and watch a foreign film together.
- Learn how to cook a dish from another country.
- Attend a cultural event on campus.
- Learn a new language, on campus or through an app.
- When and if you can, travel to a different country to experience a different culture.
For more tips and resources for getting involved, visit the Student Affairs website, check out student events and be sure to follow us on social media @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!