Student Life

Your Colorado survival guide: Altitude, sun, heat and hydration

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:13:27 +0000

Your Colorado survival guide: Altitude, sun, heat and hydration Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 07/27/2026 - 10:13

Medical Services

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Starting a new semester can be an adjustment. And if you're new to Colorado, your body may need a little time to adjust, too.

Between the higher elevation, dry air and stronger sunshine, it's common to feel a little different during your first few days in �ֲ��ý. You might get tired more easily, notice a headache or wonder why you're out of breath after walking across campus.

Already been here a year or two? Consider this your annual reminder. Even returning Buffs can feel the effects of altitude, dehydration or sun exposure after spending time away from Colorado.

The good news: most students adjust within a few days. A few simple habits can help you feel your best, whether you're heading to class, cheering at Folsom Field or planning your first hike.

Feeling tired, out of breath or getting headaches? It could be the altitude

CU �ֲ��ý sits at about 5,300 feet above sea level, and nearby trails like the Flatirons climb above 7,000 feet. If you're coming from a lower elevation, your body needs time to adjust to having less oxygen available.

During your first few days, it's normal to feel more tired than usual, get winded more easily or develop a mild headache. But it's also important to recognize the signs of altitude sickness.

Watch for these symptoms

Headache

Nausea or upset stomach

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Fatigue or low energy

Loss of appetite

Shortness of breath

Give your body time to adjust

If you're experiencing mild symptoms:

Slow down and take it easy for a day or two.

Drink more water than you normally would.

Skip alcohol, vaping and intense workouts until you're feeling better.

If possible, head to a lower elevation if symptoms get worse.

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve headaches.

Most mild altitude symptoms improve with rest and hydration.

When to seek medical help

Get medical attention right away if you experience:

Confusion or trouble staying awake

Difficulty breathing at rest

Blue lips or skin

Chest tightness or coughing up frothy mucus

Rapid heartbeat with extreme fatigue

These could be signs of serious altitude illnesses, including high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and require immediate medical attention.

Not sure whether what you're feeling is normal? CU �ֲ��ý Medical Services can evaluate your symptoms and help you decide what to do next.

Yes, you really can get sunburned walking to class

Colorado's sunshine hits differently. At higher elevations, UV rays are stronger, which means you can burn faster—even when it's cool or cloudy outside.

Whether you're studying on Norlin Quad, heading to class or spending the weekend in the mountains, sun protection should be part of your routine.

Your Colorado sun checklist

Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day you're spending time outside.

Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours.

Choose lotion sunscreen for more even coverage.

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.

Grab a hat if you'll be outside for a while.

Wear UPF-rated clothing for hikes or long days outdoors.

Take breaks in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when possible.

You can purchase sunscreen and other wellness supplies at the Apothecary Pharmacy in Wardenburg.

Your water bottle is about to become your best friend

Colorado's dry climate and higher elevation can leave you dehydrated faster than you might expect, even if you don't feel sweaty.

Whether you're walking across campus, spending the afternoon at a club event or hiking with friends, drink water throughout the day instead of waiting until you're thirsty.

If you're active outdoors, aim for about 32 ounces (one liter) of water every two hours. If you're heading into the mountains, bring extra water so you're prepared.

Colorado heat can sneak up on you

Even though Colorado is known for its mild climate, summer and even fall afternoons can get hot quickly. If you're walking across campus, attending an outdoor event or exploring �ֲ��ý, pay attention to the heat index, which reflects how hot it actually feels.

When the heat index reaches 90°F or higher:

Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning.

Drink water regularly. Sports drinks can also help replace electrolytes after heavy sweating.

Limit alcohol and caffeine if you're feeling dehydrated.

Cool down with a cold shower, wet towel or ice pack.

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.

Know the warning signs of heat illness

Seek medical care if you experience:

Nausea or vomiting

Dizziness or fainting

Trouble breathing

A body temperature above 102°F that doesn't improve after cooling down

Seizures or loss of consciousness

We're here if you need us

Most students adjust to Colorado's altitude and climate within a few days. But if you're feeling sick, your symptoms aren't improving, or you're wondering whether what you're experiencing is normal, Medical Services is here to help.

Whether you have questions about altitude, dehydration, heat-related illness or another health concern, our team is here to help you stay healthy so you can make the most of your time at CU �ֲ��ý.

For more student wellness tips throughout the year, follow @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

Starting a new semester can be an adjustment. And if you're new to Colorado, your body may need a little time to adjust, too. To help you enjoy every moment safely, here’s what you need to know about staying healthy and prepared while making the most of the season.

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Key tips for living with roommates

Anonymous — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 15:44:43 +0000

Key tips for living with roommates Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 07/27/2026 - 09:44

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Living with roommates can be a great experience that also might come with its challenges. For many of you, this might be the first time you’re sharing a living space or living with someone new.

Most students get along well with their roommates, and it’s normal to have disagreements sometimes. The good news is that working through these issues can help you grow and even strengthen your relationship. Here are some tips to help you create a positive living situation and handle any conflicts that might come up.

Get to know your roommate

Find common interests with your roommate and be open to accepting your differences. Even if you already know them, take some time to talk about the semester ahead and your daily routines.

Learn each other’s schedules so you can respect each other’s needs. For example, if you have an early class and need to go to bed early, but your roommate has a late work schedule and prefers to sleep in, understanding these habits will make living together easier. Good communication is key to figuring out each other’s routines and preferences.

Set ground rules together

As you get to know your roommate, this is a great time to establish ground rules to prevent misunderstandings later. Topics you could discuss include guests, chores and shared belongings.

Creating a roommate agreement is an easy way to discuss and agree on expectations with your roommate. If you live on campus, your residential student leader will work with you to set one up. If you live off campus, use this free roommate agreement template.

Be open to compromise

When discussing things with your roommate, you might have differences or opinions that could lead to disagreements. However, it’s often possible to find middle ground and compromise on things that aren’t a big deal.

For instance, if you prefer studying at home on Friday afternoons but your roommate likes to have friends over at the end of the week, you could choose to study at the library instead of asking for quiet time. Working out compromises like this can make living together more comfortable for both of you.

Respect each other’s space and belongings

Living in the residence halls or apartments can mean tight quarters, but you and your roommate still have a right to privacy and boundaries.

Ask before you borrow items belonging to your roommate, including food, clothes and toiletries.
Share plans with your roommate that might affect them, like if you’ve invited guests or are going out of town for the weekend.
Respect the ground rules that you’ve set up together—quiet hours, responsibilities with chores, etc.

Address issues quickly and in person

It’s a good idea to deal with roommate problems quickly before they become bigger issues. Try to talk to your roommate face-to-face about anything important. Using texts, social media or sticky notes to bring up problems can often lead to misunderstandings or make the situation worse. For example, a simple reminder like “Don’t forget to take out the trash” could come across differently than you intended.

Before you bring up an issue, take a moment to think about how to explain your feelings and needs. Using “I” statements is a helpful way to start. For example, you could say, “I feel frustrated when guests eat my snacks because I don’t always have time to go grocery shopping.”

Respect is a two-way street. Make sure to really listen to your roommate when they respond and ask questions to better understand their point of view. Avoid thinking about how you’ll respond while they’re talking—focus instead on understanding their thoughts and feelings so you can find a solution together.

If you’re nervous about starting the conversation, you can ask your residential student leader or the Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution team for help. They can guide the discussion and help you work things out. Remember, dealing with conflict can lead to better communication and a stronger relationship with your roommate.

Find support

You have access to a variety of resources to help resolve roommate conflicts if they come up.

Buffs living on campus can reach out to their residential student leader for support. These student leaders are a great resource to help mediate conversations and find common ground. Be sure to talk with your roommate beforehand and schedule a time with your residential student leader to discuss potential or unresolved issues.

All students can visit Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution, whether they live on or off campus. They can help you navigate conflicts between roommates, significant others, professors, classmates or others.

If you're ever concerned about your roommate, reach out to Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support or Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution for guidance.

Living with a roommate is a chance to build meaningful friendships and learn how to communicate effectively. By setting clear rules, resolving disagreements and using campus resources when needed, you can create a positive and supportive living space.

Here are some tips for creating a positive living environment and navigating conflict if it comes up.

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Recreation Services is becoming Campus Recreation & Well-Being

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 21:27:42 +0000

Recreation Services is becoming Campus Recreation & Well-Being Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 07/14/2026 - 15:27

CU �ֲ��ý Recreation Services is entering an exciting new chapter with a new name: Campus Recreation & Well-Being.

This updated name reflects the department’s growing role in supporting the health, well-being and success of the campus community. Although the name is changing, the welcoming spaces, engaging programs and experiences will remain the same.

Reflecting the impact of recreation

The addition of “well-being” helps tell a fuller story about the department’s purpose and the positive impact recreation has across campus.

Campus recreation has always been about more than physical activity. From fitness classes and outdoor adventures to intramurals, sport clubs and community spaces, these experiences foster health, resilience, belonging and success. The new name celebrates well-being as the outcome of this work and recognizes the many ways students, faculty, staff and community members can find connection, energy and support through recreation.

The term “well-being” also reflects the language students, families and campus leaders use when talking about what helps students thrive. By naming this more directly, Campus Recreation & Well-Being offers a clearer picture of the department’s role today and creates room to keep growing alongside the needs of the campus community.

Services and access remain the same

Campus community members can continue to count on the same access, opportunities and welcoming experiences they know and value. The following will not change:

Facilities and spaces

Access and memberships

Hours of operation

Fees and pricing

Student and staff employment opportunities

Supporting well-being across campus

Campus Recreation & Well-Being's name better reflects the department’s commitment to helping the CU �ֲ��ý community move, connect and thrive. This new name celebrates the role recreation plays in supporting health, belonging, personal growth and well-being while creating a strong and inspiring foundation for the future.

CU �ֲ��ý Recreation Services is entering an exciting new chapter with a new name: Campus Recreation & Well-Being. This updated name reflects the department’s growing role in supporting the health, well-being and success of the campus community. Although the name is changing, the welcoming spaces, engaging programs and experiences will remain the same.

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Volunteer for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 21:22:53 +0000

Volunteer for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026 Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 07/08/2026 - 15:22

Help welcome our newest Buffs to CU �ֲ��ý!

Each year, campus community members play an important role in helping new students and their families feel at home during move-in and Fall Welcome. Whether you're greeting students, answering questions, helping families find their way or supporting campus events, a few hours of your time can make a big difference.

Move-in takes place Aug. 14-18, and Fall Welcome runs Aug. 16–29. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit different schedules and interests.

Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to participate. Be part of the team that helps new Buffs feel at home from the moment they arrive!

Volunteers are essential to the success of move-in and signature Fall Welcome events. Roles include providing event support, distributing welcome bags, driving golf cart shuttles and more. Sign up to volunteer today!

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5 tips for Fourth of July weekend

Anonymous — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:13:19 +0000

5 tips for Fourth of July weekend Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 06/18/2026 - 09:13

As we head into the Fourth of July weekend, here are some tips and things to keep in mind to enjoy the holiday.

Plan ahead for campus closures

Independence Day is observed on Friday, July 3 this year and is a university holiday, so many campus spaces and services will be closed or have limited hours that day—including Campus Dining & Hospitality, the Rec Center, the UMC, Counseling & Psychiatric Services and Medical Services. If you need something, check office hours in advance or plan ahead for meals and workouts.

Medical Services offers free after-hours telehealth through TimelyCare (available evenings, weekends and closures), and Counseling & Psychiatric Services offers free, flexible and confidential online counseling through BetterMynd, as well as 24/7 crisis services by calling 303-492-2277.

Attend community fireworks shows

Fireworks are illegal in �ֲ��ý, and there are no plans for a fireworks or drone show in �ֲ��ý in 2026.

If you want to celebrate July 4th with a traditional fireworks show, you can attend an event in surrounding communities. Check out the City of Louisville fireworks on July 4 at the Coal Creek Golf Course. Or celebrate a day early on July 3 in Erie with a firework show at the Erie Community Park.

Reminder: Fireworks can spark fires and create major noise issues for neighbors and the community.

In �ֲ��ý, all fireworks are illegal. That includes sparklers, snaps, snakes, bottle rockets, Roman candles, smoke bombs and any fireworks that explode or leave the ground. If you use fireworks, you could face:

Fines up to $2,650

Court fees

Possible arson charges

Possible jail time

Liability for property or personal injury damages

Students may also be referred to Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution.

You can still be held responsible if your roommates or guests use fireworks at your place, even if the fireworks aren’t yours. If you have unused fireworks, you can turn them in without penalty at the City of �ֲ��ý Public Safety Building, 1805 33rd St.

Be a good neighbor

If you’re living off campus, help keep things low-stress by keeping noise down and cleaning up trash—these are two of the most common reasons students get tickets. You can receive a citation at any time for excessive noise or having trash on your property.

If you’re hosting a gathering, plan ahead with your roommates: decide who’s invited, how you’ll manage noise and when things will wrap up. You’re responsible for what happens at your place, even if guests are the ones causing issues.

Want an extra layer of protection? You can register your party with Off-Campus Life to receive a 20-minute warning if a complaint is made before police are dispatched.

Reminder: Student Legal Services is available to help with legal issues if you do receive a citation. Call 303-492-6813 or visit their office at UMC 311 to schedule an appointment.

Enjoy outdoor recreation

�ֲ��ý is wonderful for exploring the outdoors during the summer. Prepare for the Colorado sun and high altitude to avoid dehydration and sunburn. The Apothecary at Wardenburg Health Center carries many over-the-counter products, like insect repellent and sunscreen.

Get important trail information and regulations for the �ֲ��ý area by downloading the Trails App and visiting the city's Open Space and Mountain Parks page and the county's Open Space Parks & Trails Listing page.

If you plan to hike, stay on the designated trail and pick up all trash, including dog waste. Be sure to follow all rules and regulations, which are critical in protecting visitors, wildlife and our beautiful parks and trails. Check out additional hiking tips or visit the Outdoor Pursuits office at the Rec Center to get recommendations and rent equipment.

Take care of yourself and your community

Look out for yourself and others this weekend. If you choose to drink or use substances, pace yourself, stay hydrated and make a plan to get home safely. Review more party smart tips.

Have a safe and fun long weekend, Buffs!

As we head into the Fourth of July weekend, here are some tips and things to keep in mind to enjoy the holiday.

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Essential tips for hiking in Colorado

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 14 May 2026 16:52:05 +0000

Essential tips for hiking in Colorado Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 05/14/2026 - 10:52

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One of the best things about living in �ֲ��ý is how close you are to epic hiking trails and outdoor adventures. If you’re thinking about hitting the trails at a nearby spot, check out these tips to help you get the most out of your hiking experience.

Ease into it

Select a trail that matches your fitness level, so you can familiarize yourself with the area and terrain first. If you're new to hiking, try the Lion’s Lair Trail . If you have more hiking experience, check out AllTrails for additional hiking options. While Colorado is best known for its 14ers and breathtaking backcountry, it’s important to start easy and work your way up more difficult hikes.

It's also a good idea to check information and regulations before heading out. For information about the �ֲ��ý area, you can download the Trails App.

Bring plenty of water and snacks

Staying hydrated is key, especially when you’re active at higher altitudes. Altitude can sneak up on you and cause dehydration faster than you’d expect, so make drinking water a priority before and during your adventures. A good rule of thumb to follow is to drink at least one liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours while hiking. Keep in mind that you may need more on hot days. If you’re bringing a dog with you on the trail, be sure to pack extra water for them as well!

In addition to staying hydrated, pack some snacks for the trail. Consider snacks that have a mix of protein and carbohydrates to help keep your energy up for the duration of the hike. This includes things like peanut butter crackers, jerky, trail mix and fruit snacks.

Leave no trace

Stay on designated trails and pick up all trash and dog waste. Summer and fall in Colorado are high-risk times for wildfires. Pay close attention to fire restrictions and bans (including bans on smoking cigarettes and marijuana) which may be in place in the �ֲ��ý area and throughout the state. Be sure to follow all rules and regulations which are critical in protecting visitors, wildlife and our beautiful parks and trails.

Apply sunscreen

At higher altitudes, the sun’s rays are much stronger—meaning you can get sunburned faster than you might expect. Whenever you’re heading out for a hike, make sure to put on sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 1-2 hours. Grabbing a hat and sunglasses is also a smart move to shield yourself from UV exposure while you’re enjoying the outdoors .

Dress for success

Colorado’s weather is unpredictable, so planning ahead is a must. Always check the forecast before heading out, and try to start your hike earlier in the day to avoid afternoon storms. Dress in layers so you can adapt as temperatures shift, and opt for synthetic fabrics that wick moisture better than cotton. Don’t forget a lightweight rain jacket in your pack, just in case. Solid footwear is crucial, so choose shoes with good support and grip for those rocky trails. Finally, stash a basic first aid kit in your backpack for any minor mishaps or blisters along the way—being prepared ensures you’ll spend more time enjoying the views and less time worrying about the unexpected.

Use the buddy system

If you’re going out on a hike, take a friend (or a few)! Accidents are more common than you may think, so it’s good to have someone around to call for help or provide assistance, especially on less frequented trails. Bringing a first aid kit can also help in case of an accident.

If you do decide to go it alone, tell someone where you’re going and how long you expect to be out. Have a plan in place in case they don’t hear from you. That way if something does happen, that person will be able to send for help.

Campus Resources

Adventure Planning Center
The Adventure Planning Center (APC) has resources and staff available to help you plan your next big trip. Whether you're interested in hiking, rafting, climbing, backpacking or camping, the APC is a great place to get started. They can provide great recommendations and help you prepare for your trip. Stop by the first floor of the Rec Center near the Outdoor Pursuits office to get started.

Outdoor Equipment Rentals
Outdoor Pursuits provides equipment rentals for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, climbing, water sports and more. Students with a valid Buff OneCard can rent equipment. Rates and rental periods are available online.

Wilderness Medicine
Attend a Wilderness First Responder class to receive a certification that provides you with the tools to make critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote settings. This course is handy for those who may be hiking, climbing, camping or backpacking in remote or backcountry areas.

Apothecary Pharmacy
Get the supplies you need at the Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center. They have sunscreen, aloe vera, nasal spray, sinus relief, first aid supplies, over the counter and prescription medications, and a variety of personal care items available for sale.

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5 things to know before Memorial Day weekend

Anonymous — Wed, 13 May 2026 15:13:34 +0000

5 things to know before Memorial Day weekend Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/13/2026 - 09:13

Heading into the long weekend, here are a few quick tips to help you plan ahead and enjoy your time.

Plan ahead for campus closures

Memorial Day is a university holiday, so many campus spaces and services will be closed or have limited hours on Monday, May 25—including Campus Dining & Hospitality, the Rec Center, the UMC, Counseling & Psychiatric Services and Medical Services. If you need something, check office hours in advance or plan ahead for meals and workouts.

Get outside and explore

It’s a great weekend to enjoy �ֲ��ý’s trails and open spaces. Before you go, check local trail conditions and guidelines. Stay on marked paths, pack out your trash and follow posted rules to help protect the outdoors. Need gear or ideas? Outdoor Pursuits at The Rec has you covered.

Be a good neighbor

Want an extra layer of protection? You can register your party with Off-Campus Life to receive a 20-minute warning if a complaint is made before police are dispatched.

Reminder: Student Legal Services is available to help with legal issues if you do receive a citation. Call 303-492-6813 or visit their office at UMC 311 to schedule an appointment.

Skip the fireworks

Fireworks are not allowed in �ֲ��ý—including sparklers, snaps, smoke bombs and anything that explodes or leaves the ground. They can cause serious safety risks, especially fire hazards, and can also disrupt neighbors and pets.

Violations can lead to major consequences, including fines (up to $2,650), court fees, possible criminal charges and being referred to Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution. You may also be held responsible for fireworks used by roommates or guests.

If you have unused fireworks, you can safely drop them off at the �ֲ��ý Public Safety Building (1805 33rd St.) without penalty.

Take care of yourself and your community

Look out for yourself and others this weekend. If you choose to drink or use substances, pace yourself, stay hydrated and make a plan to get home safely. Review more party smart tips.

Have a safe and fun long weekend, Buffs!

As we head into Memorial Day weekend, here are some things to keep in mind.

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Building routines that work for you

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 07 May 2026 19:50:23 +0000

Building routines that work for you Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 05/07/2026 - 13:50

Health Promotion

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Starting your first semester at CU �ֲ��ý comes with new opportunities, responsibilities and flexibility. One way to feel more grounded as you prepare for the fall is by building a few simple routines. Routines aren’t about being perfect or overly scheduled—they’re tools that can help you manage your time, take care of yourself and make space for what matters to you.

Here are some tips to help you create routines that can support you before classes begin and adapt with you once the semester starts.

Start with a simple morning routine

How you begin your day can help set the tone. Even a few consistent habits can make mornings feel more manageable. You might try:

Waking up around the same time each day

Drinking water and eating breakfast

Gathering what you need for the day

Doing these activities in a similar order helps your body and brain get into rhythm. Start small and adjust as your schedule changes.

Add gentle structure to your week

Before the semester starts, think about how you like to use your time. Planning ahead can make it easier to balance classes, studying, work, social time and rest once you arrive on campus.

Some students prefer detailed plans, while others like a looser approach. Either way, try leaving room for breaks and flexibility. College schedules often change, and that’s okay.

Build study habits early

You don’t need to wait until the first exam to think about studying. Choosing a regular time and place to focus—like the library, a residence hall study space or a favorite coffee shop—can make it easier to stay on track once classes begin. During that time, try limiting distractions by silencing phone notifications or putting your device out of reach. Studying with a friend or accountability partner can also help you stay focused and make the time feel more manageable.

Consistent study habits help reduce last‑minute stress and give you more confidence going into the semester.

Create a nighttime wind‑down

A simple evening routine can help you relax and get consistent sleep. You might include things like:

Sharing a meal with roommates or friends

Reading or journaling

Packing your bag or setting out clothes for the next day

Washing your face and brushing your teeth

Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep when you can. Good sleep supports your energy, focus and overall well‑being—especially during the transition to college.

Check in and adjust as you go

Routines take time to build, and what works now might need to change later. Every week or two, ask yourself: What’s helping? What feels off? Small adjustments can make a big difference.

If you’d like support during the academic year, CU �ֲ��ý offers resources like Peer Wellness Coaching, where trained student coaches can talk with you about stress, academics, sleep and other aspects of student life.

One way to feel more grounded as you prepare for the fall is by building a few simple routines. Here are some tips to help you create routines that can support you before classes begin and adapt with you once the semester starts.

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Journey Leaders share advice for New Buffs

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 19:41:43 +0000

Journey Leaders share advice for New Buffs Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 04/24/2026 - 13:41

New Student & Family Programs

Many New Buffs are excited to start their journey at CU �ֲ��ý and may be wondering what college life may be like. Fortunately, upperclassmen are more than willing to share their experiences!

Katie, Daniel and Miquela are journey leaders in New Student & Family Programs. Review their tips and advice for students who are arriving on campus this fall.

Q. What is a favorite memory you have from your orientation or first Fall Welcome?

Katie: My favorite memory was my first time visiting Chautauqua with my orientation friends. I didn’t know anyone in the group prior to orientation, and it was also my first time exploring �ֲ��ý on my own. To me, that small expedition we took showed me that I was capable of meeting new people and creating meaningful experiences.

Daniel: During summer orientation, I made an effort to talk to individual students in-between small group discussions to ask how they're doing and if they have questions or feedback for me. While talking with one student about the recent small group discussion, they told me that because they are relatively shy it can be hard to participate in these discussions. I told the student that they were totally fine, and that they should participate as much or as little as they feel comfortable with. By the time the next small group discussion started, I noticed that same student was talking and laughing with a handful of other students in the group.

I do not mean to take credit for this student breaking out of their shell—they would have done that with or without me being there as a Journey Leader (JL). That being said, this experience reminded me that everything we are doing as Journey Leaders is for the students. Regardless of whether they respond to our activities or truly hear what we have to say, our goal should be to provide them with the most useful orientation experience possible. The specific definition of a useful orientation will change from student to student, and JL to JL, but as the summer progressed, I found myself thinking about what I can do that would best set the students up for success.

Miquela: My favorite memory from my first Fall Welcome was the Neighborhood Block Parties, because they let me have fun with the friends I made and do some cool activities and games. This helped me step out of my comfort zone a bit and try new experiences and make more friends outside of my high school friends, with whom I came to college.

Q. Are there any social events or activities that you found particularly helpful for making friends?

Katie: I really enjoyed the Neighborhood Block Parties. They have lots of activities, so it feels less awkward going alone, and everyone is looking to meet people. It can feel intimidating, but the way I made most of my friends was by talking to strangers and meeting the people they knew.

Miquela: The social event that I found very helpful for making friends was the Be Involved Fair, because living in Williams Village, I felt I was missing out on activities that were happening on the main campus, but that changed when I attended this event. The Be Involved Fair was a great opportunity for me to find clubs to participate in and to get involved on campus. Within these clubs, I have met many friends who were in the same major as me, or even the same class, which helped a lot with forming study groups and meaningful connections.

Q. What advice do you have for approaching new people and starting conversations?

Katie: During welcome week, everyone wants to make new friends and is open to meeting new people. My favorite conversation starter is giving someone a compliment. I am a big fan of ear piercings, so I often compliment someone if they have a cool piercing, which then begins a conversation about all of our piercing stories. Find one external thing you can talk about, like shoes, someone’s haircut, or a unique outfit, and start there. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone you don’t know or introduce yourself to your residence hall neighbors because you never know who could become a long-term friend.

Miquela: Advice for approaching new people and starting conversations is, I would have to say, as vague as it sounds: small talk. Whether that is pointing out something that you like that, they have, like their appearance or belongings. Approaching and starting conversations is not that easy and can be scary and uncomfortable. Exploring connections is important, but it also takes time. The advice that I can give is that you have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable because there is a very big chance that someone else feels the same way that you do; you just have to get through the uncomfortable parts.

Q. What advice do you have for someone who is shy or introverted when it comes to making friends?

Katie: Be kind to yourself. I remember feeling like I always had to be doing something or meeting new people to be “successful,” but that is far from the truth. I learned to set small goals, like going to the dining hall by myself or going to one club meeting. By doing this, I was able to measure my success by these goals and still give myself time to decompress and adjust to college life.

Miquela: Being shy or introverted is completely okay. If there is something that you should take away from this is never change who you are, stay true to your values, and do the things that make you, you! Doing that, you could find a friend who is introverted too and making that connection could be the best thing. But as I said earlier, it takes time, so do not be discouraged if a connection does not happen right away; it will, it just takes time and a little bit of effort.

Q. What are some ways to balance extracurricular activities with academic responsibilities?

Katie: Learn your limits and create free time for yourself. “Busy” has a different meaning for everybody, so learning your limits is vital to avoiding burnout and having time for yourself. You will need time to recharge by doing something you love outside of academics and the overwhelming newness of college.

Miquela: Balancing extracurricular activities with academic responsibilities is hard, but I have learned that taking care of yourself mentally and physically is #1, then academics, and lastly extracurriculars. Now this may not be for everyone, but planning out your week with assignments that are due, exams, class prep, etc., is a good way to see where you could have that free time or to start assignments early, or just to help you organize everything that you have going on.

Q. What do you wish you had known in your first year of college?

Katie: As long as you are putting in effort, you will find your people. It is normal to feel homesick or alone when you are immersed in a new environment, and it takes time to adjust. Almost everyone I spoke to experienced this to some capacity, and I am no exception; however, at some point, I looked around and had genuine friends who cared about me, and it happened without me even realizing it.

Daniel: Something I wish I had known before starting college was how to read a degree audit. There are so many things that a student is thinking about when first starting college, it can all feel extremely stressful and overwhelming. As I progressed through college, the degree audit eventually turned into something that helped alleviate stress. It told me exactly what courses I needed to take and let me effectively plan for future semesters. That being said, when I registered for classes for the first time I did not know what a degree audit was, let alone how to use the information it contained. Anything that reduces the early stress of transitioning to college is a welcome development, and giving students the tools to think about their classes without stress can only be beneficial.

Miquela: Instead of something I wish I had known, I want to talk about what I wish I had done more of in my first year of college. I wish I was more socially involved because branching out further and outside of my high school friend group, I could have made more connections. I also wish I were not so intimidated by my professors because I was scared to go to office hours for help and feared failure. But through my years at CU, I have learned that it's okay to ask questions, to get a question wrong, and to get comfortable going to office hours because they are not intimidating as I thought.

Q. What other advice do you have for New Buffs?

Katie: Now is the time to try new things. You never know when a small decision to try something new will have lasting changes to your life. I am a very different person now than I was when I first applied to CU, and that makes me so happy. By leaving my comfort zone and allowing myself to become passionate about new things, I have added value to my life in ways I could never have anticipated.

Miquela: Out of everything that I have said in the beginning, I want to emphasize that there is a place for you here at CU. Not everything will be for you but there is something that will fancy your interests. Just be patient, have fun, make memorable memories with friends, and cherish your CU experience because it will go by so fast! Sko Buffs!

Many New Buffs are excited to start their journey at CU �ֲ��ý and may be wondering what college life may be like. Fortunately, upperclassmen are more than willing to share their experiences!

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Your complete guide to eating on campus this summer

Anonymous — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Your complete guide to eating on campus this summer Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 04/23/2026 - 01:00

Campus Dining & Hospitality

Campus Dining & Hospitality makes it easy for students, faculty, staff and visitors to find nutritious options with convenient locations across campus. Here’s where you can find food this summer. Before visiting a location, review the full details about summer dining location hours and accepted payments.

CU on the Run

Visit CU on the Run during Maymester this summer. Open May 4-30, this grab-n-go location in the C4C building offers hot and cold options, plus a made-to-order sandwich station for quick meals.

C4C Dining Center

Open for the summer on May 31, this award-winning dining center offers food from around the world, including eight micro-restaurants, a build-your-own salad and deli bar, dessert station and more. The Black Coats station features weekly specials like pho, ramen and meals highlighting local ingredients.

Roaming Ralphie

Currently located in the University Club parking lot 201, but on June 1, is moving to Dirk’s East Patio on the east side of C4C. This mobile dining spot serves a grill‑style menu with rotating daily specials.

WeatherTech Cafe and Bakery

Located in the C4C near the Buff OneCard office, stop by to enjoy responsibly sourced specialty coffees, teas and snacks.

SEEC Cafe

Located at Research Park in the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC) building, this cafe serves breakfast and lunch.

UMC Market

Stop by the UMC for pre-made sandwiches, fruit and other snacks on-the-go.

Kittredge Market

Located in the north wing of Kittredge Central, this market offers a full-service espresso and tea bar, on-the-go breakfast and lunch options, and a general market with snacks, drinks and essentials.

The Connection

Located on the first floor of the UMC, The Connection offers hot food and snacks.

Campus Dining & Hospitality remains committed to serving quality food as well as providing meals that accommodate the nine major food allergens and other dietary restrictions. Please email Lisa Whalen, RDN in Campus Dining & Hospitality, if you have questions or concerns about dietary accommodations.

Campus Dining & Hospitality makes it easy for students, faculty, staff and visitors to find nutritious options with convenient locations across campus.

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