Healthy Buffs

From stress to sleep: Tackling college health concerns

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:51:23 +0000

From stress to sleep: Tackling college health concerns Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 08/15/2025 - 10:51

Dealing with health issues is a normal part of college life, and you're not alone if you're facing them. Here are some of the most common health concerns students run into on campus, along with support resources and tips on how to handle them.

Stress, anxiety and depression

College is a time full of opportunities and new experiences, but it can also come with its own set of challenges, like stress, anxiety or feeling down. Remember, these feelings are often normal and part of the journey, and you’re not alone in facing them.

The good news is that you have access to supportive resources and caring people ready to help you thrive. Don’t hesitate to reach out—taking care of your mental health is an empowering step toward making the most of your college years.

Find support

Practice self-care: Connect with friends, get outside, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep, food and physical activity.

Mental health workshops: Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers free weekly workshops to help students address anxiety, stress and more.

Peer Wellness Coaching: Meet with a trained student to talk through things and get advice about self-care, finding balance and more.

Let’s Talk: CAPS offers free drop-in hours as part of their Let’s Talk program where you can meet informally with a counselor for free to chat about a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety and depression.

Sleep

Getting enough sleep in college is essential for your health, memory and mood. If you’re having trouble, try these tips:

Limit caffeine intake, especially later in the day.

Keep naps short (20–30 minutes) and check out campus nap pods at The Rec, Wardenburg and Norlin Library.

Cut down on screen time before bed.

Spend some time outside during the day in the natural light.

Work out earlier in the day to avoid late-night energy boosts.

Create a relaxing bedtime routine—think reading, stretching or sipping tea.

Pick up free sleep supplies like masks and tea from the Wellness Suites at Wardenburg or the Village Center, or get items through a Buff Box.

If you try these strategies and still have trouble with sleep, make an appointment with a professional. You can make an appointment with CAPS if you think mental health concerns are contributing to your sleep difficulties, or if you want to try other behavioral strategies to improve sleep. Another option is to make an appointment with Medical Services if you aren't sure where to start.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

STIs are common among young adults and can spread through any kind of sexual activity. The most common types include human papilloma virus (HPV), chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and herpes.

If you plan to be sexually active, here are some tips to follow:

Protect yourself by using condoms, dental dams and finger cots—free supplies are available at the Wellness Suites at Wardenburg or the Village Center, or get items through a Buff Box.

Get tested regularly, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Talk honestly with partners about your status and boundaries you have around sex.

Consider vaccines for HPV and Hepatitis B.

If you’re at higher risk for HIV, visit Medical Services to ask about PrEP.

Find support

If you or a partner ends up contracting an STI, know that most types of STIs are treatable and Medical Services offers testing and treatment options, as well as counseling support.

Free at-home test kits are also available through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

Learn more about what to do after unprotected sex.

Seasonal illnesses

College life means sharing spaces with others—and potentially germs. Some of the most common seasonal illnesses include the common cold, flu and COVID.

Protect yourself by:

Getting your free flu and COVID vaccine. Medical Services also offers other vaccines, including measles.

Washing your hands often, and especially before eating and after using the restroom

Sleeping well and staying hydrated

Limiting close contact if someone’s sick

Cleaning shared surfaces

Find support

If you start to feel sick, rest up, cover coughs, wear a mask and use at-home remedies like tea or cough drops. Free cold care supplies are available at the Wellness Suites at Wardenburg or the Village Center and via Buff Boxes.

If your symptoms get worse—like severe pain, trouble breathing or stomach issues—make an appointment with Medical Services.

Meningitis

Living in close quarters with lots of other people—like in residence halls or shared apartments—can make it easier for certain illnesses to spread. One important illness to be aware of as a college student is meningitis.

Meningitis is a serious infection that affects the brain and spinal cord. It can be life-threatening, so prevention is key. The best way to protect yourself is by getting the Meningitis (Men-ACWY) vaccine. If you haven’t gotten this vaccine yet, you can make an appointment with Medical Services to get vaccinated.

Be on the lookout for symptoms of meningitis, which may include:

Confusion

Fever

Headache

Sensitivity to light

Stiff neck

Find support

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment at Medical Services to be evaluated. It’s important to catch meningitis infections early to reduce the chances of spreading it to others and prevent serious nerve or brain damage. If you are experiencing symptoms after-hours, please go to an urgent care facility near you.

Substance use and misuse

During college, some students use alcohol or other drugs, while others don't. The following resources offer perspective for those who want to reflect on their relationship with alcohol or drugs, and support for those looking to make a change. These resources are also available for those who are worried about a friend's alcohol or drug use.

Gain insight or find support

If you’re curious about your relationship with a specific substance and are not wanting to meet with anyone, get anonymous online feedback related to alcohol, cannabis and/or nicotine. If you prefer to talk with a trained student or professional facilitator, check out a Buffs Discuss Substance Use session and/or the Exploring Substance Use Workshop.

Support is also available if you want to quit or cut back—like Health Promotion’s free resources for quitting nicotine and the Collegiate Recovery Community, where you’ll find peer support and events.

For added safety, free naloxone, fentanyl test strips and the Safer Night Out Buff Box are available at the Wellness Suites at Wardenburg or the Village Center.

Eating changes

It’s common for college students to notice changes in eating habits. Newfound independence, schedule changes and social pressures can all play a part. Sometimes, stress or comparing yourself to others can also make eating feel overwhelming or confusing.

Find support

If you’re struggling with food choices, feel anxious about eating or want to build healthier habits, campus resources are here to help.

Students can meet with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in Medical Services to learn about intuitive eating, adequate food intake and ways to overcome food rules or restrictions. Appointment options range from free screenings to ongoing sessions. Students can also meet with an RDN in Campus Dining & Hospitality for guidance on eating at campus dining locations regarding food allergies and intolerances, vegetarian and vegan diets, weight management and modified diets.

The Eating Concerns team in CAPS can help with evaluation (medical, mental health, and/or dietician), recommendations for care and case management.

The Collegiate Recovery Community also provides a free Food and Body Image support meeting every week. This drop-in meeting is a great place to build community and work with others who are in recovery from unhealthy relationships with food and body image.

Physical injuries

Accidents happen, especially in college. That’s why it’s important to take precautions to avoid serious injuries on and off campus.

Find support

If you get injured or are involved in an accident, there are a variety of support services you can use on campus.

Medical Services provides injury care services, including x-rays. They can also help refer you to community services if you need more intense rehabilitation.

Physical Therapy and Integrative Care (PTIC) provides a variety of services to students, including physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage to help address injuries, pain and other concerns.

Recreation Injury Care Center (RICC) provides free services to patrons and guests of the Rec Center including first aid, baseline concussion testing, injury prevention services and athletic training services.

As the semester continues, remember that campus health services are here to support you. Taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for your academic success and overall well-being.

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Health hacks for high elevations

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:13:27 +0000

Health hacks for high elevations Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 08/15/2025 - 10:13

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Whether you’re soaking up sunshine on campus or heading out for an adventure, there are many ways to take in Colorado’s great outdoors. 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.

Altitude: It’s a thing

Colorado’s higher elevations can catch newcomers off guard. Boulder sits at about 5,300 feet, but hikes like the Flatirons can take you above 7,000 feet quickly. That change can cause altitude sickness and mess with your body if you’re not used to it.

While altitude sickness typically occurs between 7,500 and 8,000 feet in elevation, some may experience symptoms before reaching this range.

Altitude sickness symptoms to watch for:

Headaches

Nausea or feeling sick

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Feeling super tired

Loss of appetite

Shortness of breath

What to do if you feel off:

Chill out and rest, and if you can, head to a lower elevation

Hydrate like it’s your job

Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headaches

Avoid alcohol, vaping and intense workouts for a day or two

Seek medical attention right away if you notice:

Confusion or passing out

Trouble breathing, even when resting

Blue lips or skin

Chest tightness or coughing up frothy stuff

Rapid heartbeat or extreme fatigue

These could be signs of serious altitude-related conditions like high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and they need medical attention ASAP.

Sun protection is self-care

The sun’s rays are more intense at higher elevations, making it the perfect place to catch a sunburn year-round.

Your sun-safe starter pack:

SPF 30+ sunscreen: Apply 30 minutes before heading out and reapply every one to two hours. For the best coverage, opt for sunscreen lotions rather than sprays.

Shade breaks: Avoid direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stylish hats: Try bucket hats or a hat with a wide brim for sun protection.

Sunglasses: Polarized ones protect your eyes and reduce glare.

UPF clothing: Look for gear rated UPF 30+ for extra protection.

Buffs can pick up free sunscreen, first aid and other wellness supplies at the Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center or the Village Center Wellness Suite. Sunscreen and other wellness supplies are also available for purchase at the Apothecary Pharmacy.

Stay hydrated

High elevation can leave you feeling more dehydrated than usual. If you’re active outside, aim for a liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours. It’s also important to bring extra for your friends and pets if you plan to be outdoors. Bonus tip: Cut back on caffeine—it’s a sneaky dehydrator.

Beat the heat

Colorado summers can be spicy. Whether you have plans outdoors or you're commuting to class across campus, pay attention to the heat index. If the heat index hits 90°F or above, try to take it easy. That number reflects how hot it feels outside and not just the temp.

Heat safety tips:

Find AC, shade or a fan to cool off.

Sip water or sports drinks (avoid alcohol and caffeine).

Take a cold shower or use wet towels/ice packs.

Ditch tight or extra layers of clothing.

Seek medical help if you notice:

Nausea, vomiting

Dizziness or fainting

Trouble breathing

Fever over 102°F after 30 minutes of cooling

Seizures or loss of consciousness

Whether you’re hiking, hammocking or heading to class, staying safe means you can enjoy everything Colorado has to offer. For more tips, follow @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

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How to improve your social feeds

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 16:08:15 +0000

How to improve your social feeds Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/11/2025 - 10:08

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Social media can be a fantastic tool for staying connected with classmates and friends from your hometown. It’s also useful for discovering campus events, sharing your experiences and celebrating your achievements throughout the year. At the same time, social media can also have a negative influence on our well-being. Being mindful of how we engage online gives us the power to create healthier habits and build a more supportive digital environment.

To make the most of your social feeds this semester, check out these tips for creating a positive and meaningful online experience.

Audit your accounts

Do you know how many accounts you have online? Once you start looking at all of your social accounts, you may realize you have more than you thought. Social media is built into many of our favorite apps: Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, TikTok—the list goes on.

Take a moment to look at what kinds of social media accounts you have and reflect on how you use them. Ask yourself:

What do I do while I’m on this app?

Does it bring me joy, laughter, stress, anger?

Does it add value to my life? How?

Am I making meaningful connections here?

How much time am I spending on social media? Does it feel like too much, too little or about right?

If it's not feeling quite right, here are some things to try:

Hit unfollow

Who do you follow on social? Whether your feed is full of close friends and family or celebrities and meme accounts, it’s important to know who you’re following and why.

Look at the other accounts you follow and ask yourself:

Am I seeing posts that make me feel unhappy or put me in a bad mood regularly?

Does this account make me feel like I need to be someone I’m not?

Am I comparing my life, body or success with others?

What percent of people that I'm following are vetted experts in their fields vs. social influencers without expertise?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to unfollow. If you’re worried about unfollowing an account altogether, try muting or hiding them from your feed instead. Hiding negative content from your view can help you feel a sense of relief and will free up space for accounts that support your well-being.

Pause before you post

Funny memes or group photos from your night out might seem like fun content to post but consider the bigger picture. Many internship coordinators, potential employers and even grad schools check applicants’ social media—and they often dig deeper than you might expect. Even group accounts or "finstas” that aren’t obviously tied to your real name can sometimes be traced back to you and could affect opportunities down the line.

Before you post, ask yourself:

Could sharing this help or hurt me if a professor, employer or future roommate saw it?

How might this affect the other people tagged or pictured?

Does this break any campus policies, student codes of conduct or local laws?

If you’re unsure about the answers, it’s safer to skip posting. You’ll still have the memory, but you won’t risk your reputation or future opportunities.

Take a break

If you notice you’re scrolling social media all day, it might be time to give yourself a breather. Taking breaks from your feed can help you refocus and reconnect with campus life. Try making certain places—like your bed, your study spot, the library or classrooms—phone-free zones. Leaving your phone out of reach before bed, or during class or study sessions, can actually help you get better sleep, boost your focus and help your grades. Hanging out with friends in person is also a great way to unplug and enjoy the moment together. College is full of opportunities to connect—sometimes stepping away from your feed is the best way to make the most of them.

If you need extra help unplugging, try these tips:

Move social apps off of your home screen. Having an extra step can reduce the urge to open the app as soon as you get on your phone.

If an app doesn’t spark joy for you, consider deleting it.

Set a timer for 20-30 minutes while you’re studying or working on a project. Avoid using your phone until the timer goes off.

Use “do not disturb” mode. Silencing notifications can help you stay focused during the day and improve your sleep at night.

Review your phone for timer settings to limit how much time you spend on certain apps.

Social media can be a place where you find connection, gain insights and learn new skills. If you find that your social platforms are missing the mark, consider getting rid of them or using them less frequently. If you're unsure about deleting an account, see if you can deactivate it instead. This will temporarily remove your profile from the site without losing your account entirely. If you find that you miss it, you can always re-activate it later on.

Find support

As a new academic year begins, students can take advantage of Peer Wellness Coaching— a free service designed to help you set and achieve your personal wellness goals.

Peer wellness coaches are fellow students trained to offer support, encouragement and practical strategies for managing stress, improving self-care and making positive lifestyle changes. Whether you're looking to create healthier habits, find balance or simply need someone to talk through your goals with, Peer Wellness Coaching provides a welcoming space to focus on your well-being.

For students seeking support in managing or overcoming addiction to digital environments, the Collegiate Recovery Community offers a welcoming space and resources tailored to help you build healthier habits and connect with campus life.

If you’re struggling or having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression or stress, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is here to help. They offer free screening appointments for all undergrad and graduate students. Screening appointments are used to develop personalized plans, which can include therapy groups, workshops, community providers, short-term individual therapy and psychiatry or a combination of these services.

For more tips, check out resources from the Center for Digital Thriving.

To make the most of your social feeds this semester, check out these tips for creating a positive and meaningful online experience.

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Find your people: Tips for meaningful connections

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 18:25:22 +0000

Find your people: Tips for meaningful connections Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 08/08/2025 - 12:25

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Building new friendships in college can feel exciting and full of possibility. Remember, you’re surrounded by fellow Buffs who are also eager to connect, make friends and share experiences. Embrace this unique chapter—exploring campus life, joining clubs and trying new things can all open the door to meaningful connections. Check out these tips to discover ways to build supportive relationships and make the most of your college experience.

1. Ease your expectations

When looking for new friends, remember that each person you meet offers something different. Whether it’s a study buddy, an adventure partner or a good listener, having a diverse group of friends makes college more rewarding.

It's okay to take your time as you find your community at CU—real friendships often grow naturally over time. Be proud of every small step you take and celebrate your efforts to connect. Remember, college is not just about academics, but also about discovering who you are and the people who will cheer you on during this journey.

2. Take advantage of opportunities for small talk

Small talk may get a bad reputation, but it’s an incredible gateway to new friendships—especially in college. These quick chats are a natural part of meeting new people and can lead to some of your most memorable college moments.

Whether you’re striking up a conversation with someone in your residence hall, swapping stories before class or chatting while in line for coffee, small talk helps break the ice and opens the door to discovering shared interests. Each casual exchange is a chance to learn something new—maybe you’ll find a fellow hiking enthusiast or someone who’s excited about the same campus club as you. Don’t be afraid to ask about weekend plans, favorite classes or upcoming campus events—these easy openers can lead to genuine connections and lasting friendships.

3. Work with discomfort

Meeting new people on campus can be an exciting part of your college adventure. Before new interactions, try grounding yourself and remember that you’re not alone—everyone else is trying to find their community, too.

Physical tension: If you notice some nervous energy or tension, try focusing on the present moment. Quietly remind yourself of simple facts like your name, your reason for being here or something you’re looking forward to this week. These small reminders can boost your confidence and help you stay in the moment.

Nervous thoughts: If you catch yourself worrying about what others might think, try recognizing those thoughts without judging yourself. You could say, “I’m having the thought that I won’t fit in, but that doesn’t mean it’s true!” Give yourself permission to be authentic—others appreciate the real you.

By acknowledging discomfort and allowing yourself to move forward anyway, you give both yourself and others the chance for meaningful connection.

4. Socialize your interests

Balancing all that college has to offer—classes, campus events clubs, and time for yourself—can be a rewarding challenge. Setting healthy boundaries and protecting time on your calendar for your hobbies and interests is a powerful way to make the most of your college years, meet new friends naturally and create lasting memories.

Try penciling in regular moments each week for something you enjoy, even if your schedule feels packed. Whether you join a fitness class or a student organization, getting involved helps you meet new friends and feel more at home on campus. By becoming a familiar face at activities that interest you, you’ll grow your social circle and strengthen your sense of belonging.

Remember, there’s no pressure to build deep friendships overnight. Sometimes just showing up can make your day brighter and open the door to new connections.

5. Try different strategies

There’s no single way to make friends and exploring different approaches can lead to great connections.

Joining group events or chats makes meeting people feel easy and fun, and takes the pressure off one-on-one interactions.

Practice casual chats in daily life, like with a cashier, to build your comfort and confidence in conversation.

Have a few conversation topics in mind, like hobbies or weekend plans, to spark meaningful exchanges with new friends.

Remember past times in your life when you've had to make new friends, what worked then and what you learned from that experience that you could apply now.

As you practice small talk and meet new people, aim to keep early conversations light—sharing just enough helps friendships grow naturally.

Above all, remember that meaningful connections are built one step at a time—so trust your journey, reach out, and let your college experience become richer through the people you meet along the way.

Find support

If you or someone you know is struggling to connect on campus or feeling isolated, there are support services available to help.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS offers a number of mental health and support services for students, including therapy groups, workshops and drop-ins through Let’s Talk.

Health Promotion: If you are struggling with finding a community, navigating campus life or need support, Peer Wellness Coaching is a great free peer-to-peer option. They know what it's like to adjust to a new community (they're students too!) and can share tips, ideas and campus resources for meeting your people.

Check out these tips to discover ways to build supportive relationships and make the most of your college experience.

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5 tips to help you focus and flourish this fall

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 17:11:09 +0000

5 tips to help you focus and flourish this fall Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 08/05/2025 - 11:11

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Starting a new semester is exciting and full of opportunities. ̽��Ƶ offers a wealth of support designed to help you thrive, not just academically but personally as well. As you step into the new semester, here are some ways to care for your mental health, sharpen your focus and truly flourish this fall.

Adjust to change

Change is a constant part of college life, bringing new and exciting experiences each semester—whether you’re meeting new roommates, starting a new job or getting used to a new class schedule. Embrace these opportunities and remember that support is always nearby if you need it.

If you need help preparing for the new semester, consider meeting with a peer wellness coach. Peer wellness coaches are trained students that can help you create a routine, connect with campus resources and access peer-to-peer support.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, connecting with friends or family can make all the difference. If you need additional support, consider reaching out to Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS). They offer same-day drop-in hours, consultations, workshops and more that can help you navigate a specific concern or help get you connected to ongoing care.

Find academic support

Set yourself up for academic success by establishing a consistent routine and staying engaged with your courses from the start. Attend your classes, review your syllabi, connect with your instructors during office hours and keep up with assignments to make the most of your learning experience.

College offers exciting challenges, and by seeking out support early—whether through tutoring or other resources—you’ll be empowered to meet your goals and thrive throughout the semester. As the fall semester begins, consider attending one of these free workshops hosted by Disability Services to help you adjust:

Start your Semester Strong | Aug. 25

Transition from High School to College | Aug. 26

Stress Less | Aug. 27

Academic Coaching Workshop: Note-taking | Sept. 8

If you ever need extra support, dedicated mental health providers are available within your college or school through the Embedded Program. The Embedded Program was created to integrate Health & Wellness Services into academic settings, with counselors that have additional understanding of specific student populations. They’re ready to help you navigate any challenge and support your well-being every step of the way.

Be active and involved

As the school year begins, there are countless opportunities to stay active and connect with new friends. Prioritizing movement is a wonderful way to support both your physical and mental health. This fall, consider joining Intramural Sports or Sport Clubs, exploring fitness classes at the Rec Center, trying out small group training or getting involved with a student organization that matches your interests.

Students who engage and build community at ̽��Ƶ often discover greater well-being and excel academically. Take advantage of everything the Rec Center has to offer—you’ll have a great time and nurture your well-being along the way.

Stay healthy

Germs can spread quickly, especially on college campuses. You can do your part to stay healthy by practicing good hygiene and other healthy habits. Remember to wash your hands often, especially before eating and after using the restroom. It’s also important to drink plenty of water, eat balanced meals and get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

If you do get sick, Medical Services offers primary care appointments for all students, regardless of their insurance plan. You can also stop by a Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg or the first floor of the Village Center to pick up free cold care supplies, or order a Buff Box to your residence hall to get supplies like honey sticks, tea, cough drops and more.

Connect with resources

Whatever you might need this semester, there are resources available to support your academic journey and well-being. Check out upcoming student wellness events and explore wellness services.

By taking advantage of these resources and embracing new experiences, you’ll be well-equipped to make this fall semester both fulfilling and successful.

̽��Ƶ offers a wealth of support designed to help you thrive, not just academically but personally as well. As you step into the new semester, here are some ways to care for your mental health, sharpen your focus and truly flourish this fall.

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Your campus fitness guide

Emily Sampl — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:05:13 +0000

Your campus fitness guide Emily Sampl Fri, 08/01/2025 - 10:05

Recreation Services

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̽��Ƶ’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. Be sure to check out new classes this fall, like Body Pump by Les Mills!

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 ̽��Ƶ 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 ̽��Ƶ’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. ̽��Ƶ 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 ̽��Ƶ 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.

̽��Ƶ’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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Healthy Buffs

From stress to sleep: Tackling college health concerns

Stress, anxiety and depression

Find support

Sleep

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Find support

Seasonal illnesses

Find support

Meningitis

Find support

Substance use and misuse

Gain insight or find support

Eating changes

Find support

Physical injuries

Find support

Related Articles

Health hacks for high elevations

Altitude: It’s a thing

Sun protection is self-care

Stay hydrated

Beat the heat

Related Articles

How to improve your social feeds

Audit your accounts

Hit unfollow

Pause before you post

Take a break

Related Articles

Find your people: Tips for meaningful connections

1. Ease your expectations

2. Take advantage of opportunities for small talk

3. Work with discomfort

4. Socialize your interests

5. Try different strategies

Related Articles

5 tips to help you focus and flourish this fall

Adjust to change

Find academic support

Be active and involved

Stay healthy

Connect with resources

Related Articles

Your campus fitness guide

Join fitness classes and training programs

Discover new activities and find community

Get involved through team sports

Explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits

Stay connected

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