Get Involved

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

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 Boulder. 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 @CUBoulderLife 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.

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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

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CU Boulder’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 Boulder 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 Boulder’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 Boulder 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 Boulder means you have access to stunning outdoor spaces, and Outdoor Pursuits at CU Boulder 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 Boulder’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.

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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 Boulder'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 @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X, and download the CU Boulder 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 Boulder'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.

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5 ways to meet new people

Emily Sampl — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

5 ways to meet new people Emily Sampl Tue, 04/21/2026 - 00:00

Participating in campus activities is a great way to meet new people and make friends. It can also help you explore hobbies, stay active and discover career paths. Here are some ways to get involved at CU Boulder.

1. Join a student organization or program

Find student organizations that match your interests on BuffConnect. Here are a few other things to consider:

Fraternity and Sorority Life: Make lifelong friendships, gain leadership skills and give back to your community.
Intramural sports: Join a team or register as a free agent.
Sustainable Buffs Community: Get involved with sustainability and climate action at CU Boulder.

2. Attend student events

Explore various events, workshops, and opportunities to meet others, including:

3. Take advantage of leadership opportunities

There are plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills and meet fellow Buffs. Consider joining a leadership program, like CU GOLD or Journey Leaders, or participating on a student board.

4. Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to meet others on campus and in the Boulder community. Connect with Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to find opportunities to fit your schedule. You can also check out CU in the Community for one-time service events or search CUServes for options within Boulder.

5. Work on campus

In addition to earning money, working on campus is a convenient way to meet new people and gain work experience. 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 with your classes and other commitments. Explore on-campus job opportunities on Handshake.

Stay updated on events and opportunities:

Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook, and X.
Download the CU Boulder Life app from the App Store or Google Play.

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3 reasons to attend the Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:35:35 +0000

3 reasons to attend the Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15 Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 04/02/2026 - 14:35

Environmental Center

For 33 years, the Campus Sustainability Summit has brought together students, faculty and staff who care about making a difference. This year’s summit takes place on April 15th in the University Memorial Center (UMC) and offers a full day of learning, connection and action around sustainability at CU Boulder.

Whether sustainability is central to your studies or work, or it’s something you’re just beginning to explore, the summit offers practical ideas, inspiring perspectives and opportunities to get involved. Here are few reasons to attend this year.

1. Explore how sustainability connects to your interests

Sustainability shows up across disciplines, roles and everyday decisions. Through interactive workshops, panels and presentations, attendees can explore how sustainability connects to academics, research, campus operations, creative work and student life.

Here are some topics that will be covered:

Decarbonization

Environmental impacts of AI

The future of sustainable transportation at CU

Composting updates

Sustainability career panel

Sustainability research collider (lightning talks)

You’ll leave with new insights and ideas you can apply in your own classes, work, or projects.

2. Connect with your campus community

The summit brings together sustainability‑minded students, faculty, staff and campus leaders from across CU Boulder. It’s a chance to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and learn from people working on sustainability efforts throughout the university. Whether you’re looking to meet collaborators or simply listen and learn, the summit creates a space for meaningful connection.

3. Find ways to get involved and take action

From student organizations and research projects to campus programs and community initiatives, the summit highlights many ways to take action. The Sustainability Expo Hall showcases projects and programs led by students, faculty and staff, offering inspiration and next steps for getting involved. You can also participate in the Fashion Swap running throughout the day.

Review the event schedule and register to join fellow Buffs on April 15 to learn, connect and be part of a tradition focused on building a more sustainable future together.

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Vote in the CUSG spring elections

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:05:52 +0000

Vote in the CUSG spring elections Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 03/17/2026 - 13:05

CU Student Government

Voting for the CU Boulder Student Government (CUSG) spring elections will take place March 23 through April 3. This election is your chance to choose student leaders and ballot items that shape life at CU Boulder.

CUSG represents student voices in decisions made across campus and helps determine how student fees are spent. Voting is one way to make sure your perspective is part of that process. From March 23 through April 3, you can vote for the candidates you believe will best represent your interests and priorities as a CU Boulder student.

Vote Now

Ballot information

Take time to learn about what CUSG does, review the candidates and understand the issues before you vote. Candidate information is available on the CUSG website.

Upcoming events

You can also get involved and learn more by attending upcoming election events:

Election Kickoff: March 24

Join us on Farrand Field from noon to 3 p.m. to meet the candidates and ask questions. Any voter who shows proof of their completed ballot will receive a Chipotle burrito and a sticker (while supplies last).

Candidate Debate: March 25

Head to CASE W410 at 6 p.m. to hear from this semester’s executive and representative-at-large candidates—what they care about, what they hope to change and how they plan to use your student fee dollars to make campus better. Get to know the students who want to represent you! Stop by, listen in and decide who earns your vote. Cookies and refreshments included.

Every vote matters. Your vote is your voice—make it heard in the CUSG spring election.

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Tips to help you get out of your comfort zone

Anonymous — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:28:35 +0000

Tips to help you get out of your comfort zone Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 02/11/2026 - 11:28

College is a great time to explore your interests and find your people. Getting involved, whether through events, activities or campus organizations, can help you feel more connected and confident.

The hardest part of trying something new is often the first step. Yet, stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things can enhance your college experience and help you find your community. Even small steps can lead to meaningful experiences and lasting connections.

Start with what you already like

Getting out of your comfort zone doesn’t always mean doing something totally new. Even going to an event related to something you already enjoy can feel uncertain if you’re showing up solo.

Take the chance anyway. You’ll likely meet others who share your interests and are also looking to connect. Many student events are low‑commitment, so you can check them out without feeling locked in. Starting with what you love can build confidence to try something new later.

Explore new interests

CU Boulder offers tons of ways to try new things—without pressure.

Curious about rock climbing? Check out events and courses at The Rec.
Want to volunteer but not every week? Connect with Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to explore short-term opportunities.
Thinking about joining a student org but not sure yet? Go to a meeting and see how it feels.

College is the perfect time to experiment, explore and discover new interests. You never know what might stick.

Show your Buff pride

Sporting events, concerts and live entertainment are easy, low‑pressure ways to feel connected to campus. You can just show up and enjoy the moment. Check out events from CU Athletics and Program Council to see what’s coming up.

Invite others to join you

Asking someone to join you can feel scary—but chances are, they’re looking for connection too. Invite a roommate, classmate, coworker or acquaintance to come along. Keep it casual.

If they say no, that’s okay. You still showed up for yourself. And saying yes to other people’s invites, even when you’re unsure, can lead to some of the best college memories. Most things are more fun (and less intimidating) with a friend.

Make the most of campus life

Check out ways to get involved and try new things:

Download the CU Boulder Life app
Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Get involved on campus

Participating in a new activity or attending a new event may feel intimidating or uncomfortable. Yet, stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things can enhance your college experience and help you find your community.

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Why you should run for CU Student Government

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:37:25 +0000

Why you should run for CU Student Government Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 02/03/2026 - 10:37

CU Student Government

If you care about life at CU Boulder—whether it’s student fees, campus events, safety, academic experience or representation—CU Student Government (CUSG) is one of the most direct ways to make an impact. And right now, applications are open for the spring 2026 election.

What CUSG does

CUSG is the voice of CU Boulder students. It’s made up of students who work to make sure your ideas, concerns and experiences are heard at every level of campus decision-making.

Student government leaders:

Advocate for student needs and meet with campus leadership

Plan programs and events throughout the year

Write legislation to improve campus life

Allocate student fees so they’re reinvested into meaningful student-focused initiatives

In the past year, CUSG has helped fund student organizations, support Homecoming events and host open forums highlighting diverse and underrepresented communities. They also sit on major campus committees, like the CU Police Department Oversight Board and university search committees, so student perspectives influence big decisions.

How CUSG is structured

CUSG has three branches—similar to the U.S. government—run entirely by students:

Executive Branch

Led by the three student-body presidents (the tri-executives) and the executive cabinet. They work directly with students and campus leaders, set priorities, and keep communication flowing across campus.

Legislative Branch

Includes the Representative Council and the Council of Colleges and Schools. These students create legislation that aims to improve campus life—everything from funding student organizations to shaping campus policies.

Judicial Branch

The Appellate Court ensures all decisions and processes are transparent, constitutional and fair.

Reasons why you should run for office

Running for CUSG is a chance to:

Shape decisions that impact 38,000+ students

Build leadership skills that stand out on resumes and grad school applications

Advocate for communities you care about

Directly influence how student fees are spent

Connect with administrators and student organizations across campus

Make a real difference in campus life now and for future Buffs

If you’ve ever thought, “Someone should change that,” you might be the person who should run.

How to get involved

The spring 2026 CUSG Run for Office packets are now open, and there are several ways to get involved.

Review open positions

Tri-executive positions: Run as an individual, with a partner or as a three-student ticket. Tri-executives serve as CU’s top student leaders—setting priorities, representing students to campus leadership and guiding major CUSG initiatives.

Representative-at-large positions: There are four open seats. Representatives vote on how student fees are allocated, collaborate on legislation and committees, and advocate for the needs of all CU Boulder students.

To run, you must:

Be in good academic standing

Have paid all student fees

Meet all requirements outlined in the CUSG Election Code

Apply

Submit your application on Handshake.

After applying, you’ll receive the official Election Packet and next steps from the CUSG Election Commissioner.

Questions? Email cusg.elections@colorado.edu.

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Meet Buffs with similar hobbies

Anonymous — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:41 +0000

Meet Buffs with similar hobbies Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:00

Whether you’re interested in crafting, gaming or other hobbies, there are many options to do activities you enjoy and get to know Buffs with similar interests. Check out these events, student organizations and programs to meet new friends.

Sports and fitness

Sign up for an Intramural Sports league or try out for a Sport Club.
Join a student organization focused on sports and fitness, like the CU Boulder Ice Skating Club or Alpine Club at CU.
Check out classes, programs and events at the Rec Center.
Cheer on the CU Buffs! View schedules for CU men's basketball and women's basketball games.
If you're interested in behind-the-scenes work at CU Boulder basketball games, volunteer with Ralphie's Green Stampede.

Esports and gaming

Visit the Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge in the University Memorial Center.
Hang out at The Connection and enjoy ping pong, billiards, bowling, video games or board games.
Join a student organization focused on games and esports, like CU Tabletop RPG Club, CU Marginalized Genders in Gaming or CU Gaming.
Check out student events like trivia nights, gaming tournaments and more.

Outdoor adventures

Sign up for a group trip or class with Outdoor Pursuits. Available courses and trips include winter activities, hiking and more.
Join a student organization dedicated to outdoor sports, like Boulder Freeride or CU Mountain Biking.
Plan to take the CU Ski Bus this winter for sustainable transportation to the mountains.

Music and entertainment

Attend a concert, film screening or other event offered by Program Council.
Join a student organization focused on entertainment or performing arts, like Boulder Film Buffs, Buffoons or CU Rave Club.
Sign up for a dance class at the Rec Center. Classes are open to all fitness and experience levels.

Crafting and art

Participate in a DIY Night. These events are a great way to meet fellow crafters and try new things.
Join a student organization dedicated to creative arts, like CU Ceramics Club, Painting Pals or Crochet and Conversations.
Check out student events like guided paint classes and more.
Attend mending workshops on campus to learn how you can fix tears and rips in your favorite clothes or gear.

Social justice, advocacy and activism

Connect with the Center for Cultural Connections & Community.
Join a student organization focused on social justice and activism, like �鶹��Ժ Against Unjust Imprisonment or New Era Colorado.
Get involved with the Sustainable Buffs Community at the Environmental Center.
Check out the Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to get involved on campus or in the local community. There are one-time, short-term and long-term volunteer options.
Learn about student activism on campus and civic engagement with resources from the Center for Student Involvement.

For more ways to get involved and meet others:

Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.
Download the CU Boulder Life app.
Check out upcoming student events.
Find student organizations and events on BuffConnect.

Whether you're into crafting, gaming or other hobbies, you have plenty of opportunities to enjoy favorite activities and meet fellow Buffs with similar interests. Explore events, student organizations and programs to make new friends.

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Upgrade your professional experience this semester

Emily Sampl — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:45:13 +0000

Upgrade your professional experience this semester Emily Sampl Tue, 01/20/2026 - 11:45

Career Services

It's never too early to start building your resume and explore what kind of career you actually want.

Employers like to see real-world experience like internships, projects or certifications because it shows you’ve got skills and drive. Bonus: Professional experiences help you discover what kind of job and company vibe suits you.

CU Boulder has tons of ways to level up. Whether you’re building your resume, exploring interests or getting a jumpstart, now’s the time to dive in.

Find an internship

According to a national survey, internships are the top experience that employers look for when hiring. Why? Because it shows you’ve applied your skills in the real world.

Internships aren’t just resume boosters—they help you:

Build real-world skills

Make professional connections

Discover what kind of work and workplace fits you best

As a Buff, you’ve got access to amazing tools to help you land internships like Handshake, internship credit options and specialized experiences. Handshake is your go-to platform for finding internships (many of which you won’t see anywhere else). Review these tips tailored to your major to make it easier.

You can also explore unique experiences like CU in D.C., Education Abroad and the Public Interest Internship Experience (PIIE) to find the right fit for your goals. And for more opportunities, check out workshops for landing an internship from Career Services.

Explore Career Academy

Career Academy Boulder gives you access to free career training programs from major companies like Google, Meta, IBM and more. These programs are designed to complement your classroom learning and professional experiences, helping you gain practical skills that employers value. Everything is online and self-paced, so you can fit career-building into your schedule.

Build skills through hands-on learning

Find the right role for your career goals

Earn micro-credentials to boost your resume and give you an edge in the job market

Whether you’re looking to explore new industries or strengthen your expertise, Career Academy offers flexible options to help you stand out to employers and prepare for your future.

Try a job simulation

Job simulations let you experience a “day in the life” at top companies like Red Bull, The New York Times, Bank of America and more—without needing to apply or commit.

Through Forage, you can experience real-world tasks from major brands and industries, and You can explore your options before jumping into an internship or job. It’s a low-pressure way to:

Test-drive different careers

Build skills employers care about

See what kind of work excites you

Work on campus

CU Boulder hires thousands of students every semester, and on-campus jobs are more than just a paycheck. They offer:

Flexible work hours that fit your class schedule

Hands-on experience you can add to your resume

A chance to grow your professional network right here on campus

No matter your major or interests, there’s a job for you. Start exploring open positions on Handshake and see how working on campus can support your goals.

Volunteer

Volunteering isn’t just good for the community—it’s great for you, too. You’ll gain new skills, meet people and make a difference.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) can help you find opportunities that fit your schedule and interests, with flexible commitment levels and tons of ways to get involved.

Plus, volunteer experience can give you a major edge when applying for jobs or internships—especially with nonprofits or government agencies. Whether you're passionate about social change, sustainability, education or something else, there's a way to get involved and grow.

Set yourself up for success

Career Services helps students position themselves for success through workshops, events, training and other resources. Learn more about getting started with Career Services.

CU Boulder has tons of ways to level up. Whether you’re building your resume, exploring interests or getting a jumpstart, now’s the time to dive in.

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Get Involved

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

5 ways to meet new people

1. Join a student organization or program

2. Attend student events

3. Take advantage of leadership opportunities

4. Volunteer

5. Work on campus

Related Articles

3 reasons to attend the Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15

1. Explore how sustainability connects to your interests

2. Connect with your campus community

3. Find ways to get involved and take action

Related Articles

Vote in the CUSG spring elections

Ballot information

Upcoming events

Related Articles

Tips to help you get out of your comfort zone

Start with what you already like

Explore new interests

Show your Buff pride

Invite others to join you

Make the most of campus life

Get involved on campus

Related Articles

Why you should run for CU Student Government

What CUSG does

How CUSG is structured

Reasons why you should run for office

How to get involved

Review open positions

Apply

Related Articles

Meet Buffs with similar hobbies

Sports and fitness

Esports and gaming

Outdoor adventures

Music and entertainment

Crafting and art

Social justice, advocacy and activism

For more ways to get involved and meet others:

Related Articles

Upgrade your professional experience this semester

Find an internship

Explore Career Academy

Try a job simulation

Work on campus

Volunteer

Set yourself up for success

Related Articles