Student Life

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

One of the best things about living in 91��Ҹ� 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 91��Ҹ� 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 91��Ҹ� 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.

Traditional

White

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.

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.

Get outside and explore

It’s a great weekend to enjoy 91��Ҹ�’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

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.

Skip the fireworks

Fireworks are not allowed in 91��Ҹ�—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 91��Ҹ� 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.

Off

Traditional

White

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

Starting your first semester at CU 91��Ҹ� 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 91��Ҹ� 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.

Traditional

White

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 91��Ҹ� 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 91��Ҹ� 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 91��Ҹ� and may be wondering what college life may be like. Fortunately, upperclassmen are more than willing to share their experiences!

Traditional

White

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 91��Ҹ� 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.

Traditional

White

Exploring 91��Ҹ�: Tips for new students

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:51:18 +0000

Exploring 91��Ҹ�: Tips for new students Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 04/22/2026 - 13:51

Listen to this article

Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, 91��Ҹ� is a unique city with plenty to do. Whether you’re in town this summer for the first time or you’ve visited 91��Ҹ� before, here are some tips to help you get familiar with the area and prepare for fall semester.

Food and fun

91��Ҹ� is a vibrant city with lots to see and do near campus.

The Hill: University Hill, or “The Hill,” is a popular spot for students with plenty of shops and places to eat.

Pearl Street: Pearl Street is right in the center of 91��Ҹ� and offers great options for food, entertainment and shopping.

Restaurants: 91��Ҹ� is famous for its awesome food! If you’re looking for affordable options, check out Downtown 91��Ҹ�’s Bites on a Budget list.

Elevation and all seasons

91��Ҹ� has a mild and dry climate and experiences all four seasons throughout the year (sometimes even in the same day). With these elements, make sure you have sunscreen, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle.

While 91��Ҹ� is often sunny, it is not always warm. During the winter months, 91��Ҹ� can experience blizzards that leave inches of snow on the ground and temperatures below freezing. Remember to pack plenty of warm clothes, winter boots, a winter coat, gloves, a hat and scarf.

It may take some time for you to acclimate to 91��Ҹ�’s elevation and dry climate, and it’s extremely important to stay hydrated. After moving to 91��Ҹ�, students are encouraged to gradually increase activity level to avoid altitude sickness. Learn more about preventing altitude sickness and the signs of dehydration before move-in.

Getting around the city

91��Ҹ� is one of the most bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly cities in the country. The 91��Ҹ� Creek Path runs throughout the city, allowing for easy biking or walking without the stress of traffic.

If you plan to bring your bike to campus in the fall, review these tips from the CU Police Department about preventing bike theft. You're also able to rent a bike through the Environmental Center each semester or sign up for BCycle.

CU NightRide is also a great option for students—this program is CU 91��Ҹ�’s student-operated safe-ride service that allows you to request free, evening transportation to and from any location within 91��Ҹ� city limits.

Outdoor recreation

Between hiking, climbing, camping, backpacking and more, there are many options to explore Colorado's great outdoors. If you're visiting 91��Ҹ� this summer, review these essential tips for hiking in Colorado.

If you're interested in visiting state and national parks, check out the Rec Center’s Outdoor Pursuits. Through Outdoor Pursuits, you can rent gear, take trips with fellow Buffs and learn new skills.

91��Ҹ� is also close to many downhill ski areas. The CU Ski Bus provides an affordable, convenient way to get to the I-70 resorts and back.

Learn more

Want to learn more about what it’s like to live in 91��Ҹ�? Follow @CU91��Ҹ�Life on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Traditional

White

Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:22:25 +0000

Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 04/22/2026 - 13:22

Listen to this article

Fall Welcome is almost here, offering a chance to explore campus life and meet other students. Through fun events and activities, you’ll get to connect with people as the semester begins.

The connections you make during the first few weeks of school can lead to new friendships. Here are some easy tips to help you get started.

Make the first move

When it comes to making friends, one strategy to try this semester is to commit to making the first move. Try to be the first one to introduce yourself when you meet someone new over the next few weeks. Whether you’re meeting people in your residence hall or at Fall Welcome events, being the one to break the ice can help pave the way for fun conversations and new friendships.

Find Buffs with similar interests or hobbies

Finding your community can help you feel more comfortable at a large university like CU 91��Ҹ�. Between student organizations, classes, or programs and events that are specific to different groups and interests, there are many ways to connect with Buffs around things you have in common.

College is a great time to discover new passions and explore your identity. Here are a few ways to get started:

Sports and gaming

Intramural Sports

Sport Clubs

Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge

The Connection

Music and entertainment

Program Council

Distinguished Speakers Board

Cultural Events Board

Community building and advocacy

Environmental Center

CU Student Government

Give it time

Building friendships can take time. Starting college is a new experience for you and your peers, and you can take small steps each day to find your community. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you pursue friendships:

Focus on the positives: When meeting new people, look for things you have in common. This could include personality traits, hobbies, shared experiences or humor.

Make time to socialize: While focusing on academics is important, you should also take breaks to attend events and spend time with others.

Keep trying: It can take time to find friends that you connect with more deeply. It’s OK if you have friends that you only see in class or when you visit the Rec Center at first. These interactions can still be a highlight in your day and might become closer friendships over time.

Want to learn more about student life at CU? Follow @CU91��Ҹ�Life on Instagram, Facebook and X.

The connections you make during the first few weeks of school can lead to new friendships. Here are some easy tips to help you get started.

Traditional

White

Your campus fitness guide

Emily Sampl — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:05:13 +0000

Your campus fitness guide Emily Sampl Wed, 04/22/2026 - 10:05

Recreation Services

Listen to this article

CU 91��Ҹ�’s recreation centers are more than just fitness spaces—they’re places to find community, try new activities and make the most of your college experience.

Both the Main Student Recreation Center and the Williams Village Recreation Center are open to full fee-paying students and feature a range of exercise equipment including weights, cardio machines and functional fitness areas. Learn more about what The Rec has to offer.

Join fitness classes and training programs

Fitness and Wellness programs at The Rec offer various ways to stay motivated, find workout buddies and reach your fitness goals. Explore these options as you begin your first semester:

Group fitness classes: Access over 65 group fitness classes each week with a Be Fit Pass. From Pilates and cycling to strength training and F45, there’s something for everyone.

Instructional programs: Take advantage of small group instructional classes for activities like swimming, boxing, CrossFit, dance, martial arts and ice skating.

Personal training: Reach your fitness goals with certified personal trainers, either with one-on-one or pair sessions

Discover new activities and find community

Your time at CU 91��Ҹ� is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. The Rec creates spaces to explore, connect and grow:

Inclusive Rec events: Open to all Buffs, these free events allow you to make new connections while trying different things like hiking, ice skating, adaptive training sessions and more.

Free Friday Power Hour: If you purchase a Be Fit Pass but your friend doesn’t, invite them to Free Friday Power Hour! Curious about group fitness classes but not ready to commit to a Be Fit Pass? Buffs can join a free class every Friday during the semester.

Work at The Rec: Looking for a campus job? The Rec Center offers opportunities for students to gain valuable leadership skills, work experience and friendships.

Get involved through team sports

Team sports are a fun and engaging way to stay active while forming friendships and building a sense of community. Here are two ways to get involved:

Intramural (IM) Sports

Join one of CU 91��Ҹ�’s Intramural Sports leagues, open to all skill levels. Buy a Sports Pass for unlimited access to IM Sports for $25 per semester or $45 per year. Whether you’re playing on a team or joining as a free agent, it’s all about having fun and meeting new friends.

Sport Clubs

Take your athletic interests to the next level by competing against other colleges and universities through Sport Clubs. CU 91��Ҹ� offers 30 men’s, women’s and co-ed teams. Informational meetings take place in late August and early September, and some teams may hold tryouts.

Explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits

Living in 91��Ҹ� means you have access to stunning outdoor spaces, and Outdoor Pursuits at CU 91��Ҹ� can help you make the most of it. Whether you’re new to outdoor activities or an experienced adventurer, there’s something for everyone:

Trips and courses: Outdoor Pursuits offers trips and courses for activities like hiking, backpacking and climbing. These experiences are a fantastic way to connect with nature and fellow adventurers.

Wilderness workshops: Join fellow Buffs and learn essential skills like backcountry cooking, animal tracking, plant identification and survival techniques.

Equipment rentals: Planning your own adventure? Stop by the Outdoor Equipment Rental Center to rent camping, climbing, water sports and winter equipment. Rentals are available to all Buff OneCard holders.

Stay connected

Recreation Services is proud to offer opportunities for Buffs to find community, try new activities and enhance the college experience. So, grab your Buff OneCard, download The Rec mobile app, explore our facilities and make this year your most active and adventurous yet!

Be sure to follow The Rec on Instagram to stay up to date with all the latest happenings.

CU 91��Ҹ�’s recreation centers are more than just fitness spaces—they’re places to find community, try new activities and make the most of your college experience.

Traditional

White

4 quick tips for Transfer Buffs

Emily Sampl — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

4 quick tips for Transfer Buffs Emily Sampl Wed, 04/22/2026 - 01:00

New Student & Family Programs

Listen to this article

As a Transfer Buff, you belong to CU 91��Ҹ�'s Transfer Student Community, which offers events, resources and support for a smooth transition.

Here are tips to make the most of your first semester here.

1. Attend transfer student events

Each semester features events for transfer students to meet new people and get involved. Check out other student events, too! Sign up for the Transfer Buffs newsletter for updates.

2. Meet with a transfer peer mentor

Transfer peer mentors can offer guidance and connect you to campus resources—email transferbuffs@colorado.edu to schedule a meeting.

3. Get involved on campus

Join student organizations through BuffConnect or start your own. Explore volunteer opportunities on CUServes. Find an on-campus job or join community programs through the Center for Cultural Connections & Community, the Sustainable Buffs Community and Rec Center.

To learn about opportunities, follow @CU91��Ҹ�Life on Instagram, Facebook and X, and download the CU 91��Ҹ� Life app.

4. Find support

Numerous resources are available to help you with your overall well-being. Reach out to the Transfer Student Community for assistance.

As a Transfer Buff, you belong to CU 91��Ҹ�'s Transfer Student Community, which offers events, resources and support for a smooth transition. Here are tips to make the most of your first semester here.

Zebra Striped

White

Move-in made easy: 5 must-know tips

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:39:30 +0000

Move-in made easy: 5 must-know tips Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:39

Listen to this article

Move-in will be here before you know it! If you’re moving into one of the residence halls soon, here are some tips for a positive experience.

Pack strategically

To help you maximize your space and reduce waste, review what to bring to campus and what items to leave at home. Before making purchases, consider spending several days in your room to get a feel for what else you need.

Residence halls will have carts to help you bring items to your room. Be aware that some residence halls do not have elevators—volunteers may be around for help with moving belongings.

Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes

Colorado weather in August tends to be hot, sunny and dry. Be prepared for your move-in day with sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. And remember to take breaks throughout the day, especially if you are from out of state and getting used to 91��Ҹ�’s elevation.

Between bringing items to your room and exploring campus, you may move around and walk a lot during the day. Consider wearing comfortable and closed-toed shoes during move-in.

Download the CU 91��Ҹ� Life app

Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play to have everything you need in one place. Get details on student events, review the Campus Map, find resources and more all through the CU 91��Ҹ� Life app.

Introduce yourself to others

During your move-in day and first week on campus, don't be afraid to introduce yourself to others. This is the time of year when everyone is getting to know each other, so make the first move and say hello!

Try to get to know others in your residence hall and connect with fellow Buffs at Fall Welcome events. If you have a great conversation with someone, ask them to get dinner later or meet for coffee sometime soon.

Explore campus

After you’ve moved in, explore campus during your free time around Fall Welcome events.

Use the Campus Map to find where your classes are and nearby study spots.
Check out the different dining centers, grab-n-gos, markets and cafes to find your favorite place to eat. With 15 campus dining locations, there are many convenient options for finding breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
Visit the Rec Center, the University Memorial Center (UMC) and the Center for Community (C4C) to find ways to get involved on campus.

Want to learn more about the student experience at CU? Follow @CU91��Ҹ�Life on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Move-in will be here before you know it! If you’re moving into one of the residence halls soon, here are some tips for a positive experience.

Zebra Striped

White

Student Life

Essential tips for hiking in Colorado

Ease into it

Bring plenty of water and snacks

Leave no trace

Apply sunscreen

Dress for success

Use the buddy system

Campus Resources

Related Articles

5 things to know before Memorial Day weekend

Plan ahead for campus closures

Get outside and explore

Be a good neighbor

Skip the fireworks

Take care of yourself and your community

Off

Building routines that work for you

Start with a simple morning routine

Add gentle structure to your week

Build study habits early

Create a nighttime wind‑down

Check in and adjust as you go

Related Articles

Journey Leaders share advice for New Buffs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Articles

Your complete guide to eating on campus this summer

Related Articles

Exploring 91���Ҹ�: Tips for new students

Food and fun

Elevation and all seasons

Getting around the city

Outdoor recreation

Learn more

Related Articles

Friendship hacks for Fall Welcome

Make the first move

Find Buffs with similar interests or hobbies

Give it time

Related Articles

Your campus fitness guide

Join fitness classes and training programs

Discover new activities and find community

Get involved through team sports

Intramural (IM) Sports

Sport Clubs

Explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits

Stay connected

Related Articles

4 quick tips for Transfer Buffs

1. Attend transfer student events

2. Meet with a transfer peer mentor

3. Get involved on campus

4. Find support

Related Articles

Move-in made easy: 5 must-know tips

Pack strategically

Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes

Download the CU 91���Ҹ� Life app

Introduce yourself to others

Explore campus

Related Articles

Exploring 91��Ҹ�: Tips for new students

Download the CU 91��Ҹ� Life app