Life Skills

3 reasons to work on campus

Emily Sampl — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 17:39:25 +0000

3 reasons to work on campus Emily Sampl Tue, 11/25/2025 - 10:39

Students who work on campus get to enjoy many benefits. Some jobs allow you to build technical skills and are a great way to explore potential careers. Others may offer some downtime and let you study around your job duties.

Whatever you’re looking for, here are a few reasons to consider applying for an on-campus job.

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

One of the best perks of an on-campus job is flexibility. Most student jobs offer flexible scheduling around your classes and other commitments. Many supervisors will also adjust schedules during busy times, like finals.

Many students work between 10 and 15 hours weekly, with 25 hours per week maximum. At your on-campus job, your academics stay the priority.

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

The other students you work with can quickly become your new friends. Departments like the Rec Center, Environmental Center, Residence Life and Campus Dining & Hospitality are some of the largest employers of students. These jobs allow you to spend time with fellow Buffs and get to know them.

Student employment also allows you to work more closely with faculty and staff. They can become mentors and potentially lead to future internships or research opportunities. Additionally, faculty or staff supervisors can provide letters of recommendation or serve as professional references later.

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Whatever department you work in, your student job can help you build your resume.

Many students develop foundational skills at on-campus jobs that they can use in professional positions after college. These skills include communication, problem-solving, time management and leadership.

There are also student jobs specific to different industries that can teach you technical skills. These roles include work in graphic design, event planning, social media, data analytics and research.

Find student jobs

Use Handshake to search for on-campus student employment, including hourly and work-study positions.
Stop by the On-Campus Student Job & Professional Experience Fair on Thursday, Jan. 15 to meet with campus departments looking to hire students.
Connect with Career Services to find support with every aspect of your job search, including using Handshake, writing resumes, practicing for interviews and more.

Looking for a job? Here are a few reasons to consider student employment.

Traditional

White

What you can do now to prepare for life after graduation

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:03:34 +0000

What you can do now to prepare for life after graduation Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 10/29/2025 - 12:03

Career Services

Whether you're in your second year or gearing up for graduation, it's totally normal to feel unsure about your future. You might have a clear career path in mind or no clue what comes next—and that’s okay!

No matter where you are in your college journey, there are steps you can take now to build confidence, gain experience and get ready for life after �� Boulder.

If you’re in your second year: Explore interests and build skills

Your second year is a great time to start narrowing down your interests and gaining hands-on experience. Here’s how to get started:

Get a part-time job on campus to build your resume and explore different fields like marketing, research, customer service or athletic training.

Volunteer for causes you care about. Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) has tons of opportunities to help you get involved and grow your skills.

Create or update your resume and use our free AI resume editor Quinncia to get feedback.

Attend workshops on resumes, internships and job search strategies.

Set up informational interviews with professionals in fields you're curious about.

Go to career fairs and networking events to meet employers and learn about internships.

Activate your Handshake account to explore job and internship listings.

Thinking about graduate or professional school? Meet with a career advisor to learn about timelines and prep steps.

If you’re in your third year: Gain experience and get organized

Internships are a key part of career development, and many students land one during their third or fourth year. Here’s how to make the most of this time:

Complete your Handshake profile to connect with employers and find internships.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your latest experiences.

Practice your elevator pitch to confidently introduce yourself to recruiters.

Prepare for interviews by practicing answers to common questions.

Attend career fairs and employer events to expand your network.

If you’re planning on graduate school, start researching programs, admissions requirements and standardized tests. Ask faculty for letters of recommendation and meet with a career advisor to work on your personal statement.

If you’re in your fourth or final year: Launch your career

Your final year is all about taking action. Job searches can take several months, so starting early is key. Here’s what to focus on:

Research companies and roles that align with your goals.

Polish your resume and Handshake profile to stand out to employers.

Practice and prepare for interviews.

If you’re applying to graduate or professional school, take any required tests and have your application materials reviewed by a career advisor and faculty member.

Find support

No matter what year you're in, Career Services is here to support you. From choosing a major to landing your first job or applying to grad school, we’ve got resources and advisors ready to help.

No matter where you are in your college journey, there are steps you can take now to explore career options, gain experience and prepare for the future.

Zebra Striped

White

Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget

Anonymous — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 18:57:24 +0000

Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 10/24/2025 - 12:57

Basic Needs Center

Listen to this article

Grocery shopping doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning, you can eat well, save money and make the most of your time. Here are some easy tips to help you shop smarter and stretch your food budget.

Plan your meals ahead

Before heading to the store, make a weekly meal plan. Include breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Planning helps you avoid impulse buys and food waste.

Pro tip: Use leftovers! Turn last night’s dinner into lunch or remix ingredients into a new dish—like turning leftover veggies into soup or stir-fry.

Use coupons and store deals

Check your grocery store’s app or website for weekly deals and digital coupons. Match your meal plan to what’s on sale to save even more.

Compare prices by unit

Don’t just look at the sticker price—check the price per unit (like per ounce or per pound). Bigger packages often cost less per unit and save money over time.

Try plant-based options

Meat can be pricey. Try adding plant-based proteins like beans, lentils or tofu to your meals. They’re affordable, filling and packed with nutrients.

Upgrade simple meals

Make budget meals better with easy add-ins. Toss veggies and protein into instant noodles, or top cereal with frozen berries or banana slices for extra flavor and nutrition.

Share with roommates

Split the cost of kitchen staples like milk, butter or coffee. You can also take turns cooking dinner and share meals to save time and money—just make sure everyone’s on board with the plan.

Swap for cheaper items

Here are some smart swaps to cut costs:

Buy whole foods: A block of cheese is usually cheaper than shredded.

Go generic: Store brands often match name brands in quality but cost less.

Choose seasonal produce: In-season fruits and veggies are fresher and cheaper.

Pick frozen produce: Frozen fruits and veggies are budget-friendly and last longer.

Buy in bulk: Stock up on dry goods like rice, pasta or oats.

Use canned foods: Canned beans, tomatoes and veggies are versatile and affordable—just watch for added sodium.

With these strategies, you’ll be able to make your grocery budget go further while still enjoying tasty, nutritious meals throughout the semester.

Find support

If you're looking for ways to stretch your food budget or need help accessing nutritious meals, �� Boulder and our local community offer several free and low-cost resources.

Basic Needs Center

The Basic Needs Center connects students with essential support, including access to nutritious food.

Buff Pantry: Students can pick up fresh produce, pantry staples, frozen items and personal care products.

Mobile Food Pantries: Free pop-up pantries are available for �� students, faculty, staff and Boulder/Broomfield community members.

Ralphie’s Cooking Basics: Learn easy, budget-friendly recipes at free cooking classes.

Nutrition Services

Need help with healthy eating? Students can book a free appointment with a registered dietitian on campus. Get personalized advice on topics like meal planning, dietary needs and more.

Community Food Share

Community Food Share is a local food bank serving Boulder and Broomfield counties. They offer a free on-site food pantry, emergency food assistance and mobile food pantries.

Traditional

White

How to navigate campus life as an introvert

Emily Sampl — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How to navigate campus life as an introvert Emily Sampl Tue, 10/21/2025 - 00:00

Whether you consider yourself an introvert or extrovert, you have options each semester to get involved, find support and connect with others in ways that work for you.

Introverted people tend to prefer socializing in small groups or one-on-one, with a preference for alone time as well. Even though �� Boulder is a large university, introverts can take advantage of opportunities tailored for them to meet fellow Buffs and get involved on campus. Here are some tips to navigate your college experience as an introvert.

Schedule social time and downtime

Just like you would plan your study sessions, intentionally plan time each week to connect with others. Make plans to get coffee with a friend or call a family member to catch up. You can also plan to attend smaller student events on campus that allow you to meet others, like DIY Nights, Queer Cheer or Free Friday Power Hour. Humans are social animals and regular connection with others is great for your well-being!

Additionally, be intentional about planning downtime for yourself. If you recognize that you need alone time to recharge, build that into your schedule. After socializing, you might benefit from walking, playing video games or reading a book. It’s OK to say ‘no’ to plans with others sometimes and take time to rest.

Adapt to crowded situations

Whether it’s large class sizes, networking events or popular fitness classes, getting to know others in a smaller group setting may not always be an option.

Fortunately, there are often ways you can navigate crowded situations:

Attend your professor’s office hours outside class to ask questions or get help with coursework.
Set up informational interviews to network professionally in a one-on-one setting.
Visit busy spots on campus outside of peak hours, like the Rec Center or C4C Dining Center.
Take breaks at large campus events, like career fairs or involvement fairs. It’s OK to leave and come back!

Find quiet spaces on campus

If you need somewhere to hang out between classes or study without others around, there are many options for introverts. Review this list of study spots on campus to check out, and keep these tips in mind:

You can reserve study rooms with University Libraries.
Conference rooms in the C4C are available on a first-come, first-served basis after 5 p.m.
Classrooms can be used as study spots when not in use for classes or evening events.

Check out student resources

Find support with getting involved on campus:

Center for Student Involvement
Join student organizations, find leadership opportunities and learn about other ways to get involved at the Center for Student Involvement.

Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE)
Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, make a difference and meet people with similar passions.

Recreation Services
Find your fit at The Rec! Join fitness classes, play intramural sports, explore Colorado with Outdoor Pursuits or attend an Inclusive Rec event.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community
The Center offers programs, events and resources to promote inclusion and nurture identity development, diversity, equity and social justice.

Student events
The Division of Student Life hosts hundreds of free events each semester. Find things to do by following @��BoulderLife on Instagram and downloading the �� Boulder Life app.

Even though �� Boulder is a large university, introverts can take advantage of opportunities tailored for them to meet fellow Buffs and get involved on campus. Here are some tips to navigate your college experience as an introvert.

Traditional

White

Tips for next year’s housing search

Emily Sampl — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Tips for next year’s housing search Emily Sampl Tue, 10/21/2025 - 00:00

Off-Campus Life

Listen to this article

Now is a great time to start planning your housing for next year! Whether you’re moving off campus for the first time or you already know your way around the Boulder and Denver areas, check out these tips from Off-Campus Life to help you get started.

Attend the Fall Housing Fair

Stop by the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom on Wednesday, Nov. 19, and explore options at the Fall Housing Fair. Property managers, city offices and vendors will attend, and you can ask questions and explore more resources related to living in Boulder. There are always lots of free giveaways and food!

Explore different options

Check out different neighborhoods and housing options to see what fits your lifestyle and budget. Some favorite spots for students in Boulder are The Hill, Martin Acres, East Aurora, Goss Grove and North Boulder. You might also want to look into places in nearby cities like Longmont, Superior, Louisville or Lafayette—these areas have bus routes that make getting to campus easy.

Figure out your budget by adding up rent, utilities, internet and other costs so you know what you can afford.

See what public transportation is available for your commute.

Check out crime stats for any area you’re considering.

Talk to other students about what it’s like living in different neighborhoods.

Use Ralphie’s List to search for places by neighborhood, city, price and more—plus, it’s a great way to find roommates. As you consider who you’ll live with next year, be sure to review the city of Boulder's update on occupancy limits.

Consider transportation needs

When you’re checking out different neighborhoods and cities, make sure to figure out how you’ll get to campus. Take a look at the public transportation options to see what works best for you.

If you have a Buff OneCard, you can hop on the bus for free! RTD public transit offers routes that cover Boulder and nearby towns, making it easy to get to class.

Get free legal advice

A lease is a legal contract that students should understand before signing. Before signing a lease, you can schedule an appointment with attorney Bruce Sarbaugh through Off-Campus Life for a free lease review before signing. Students can also get free legal advice on other rental concerns, from lease agreements to landlord disputes.

Find support

Off-Campus Life is here to help you navigate living off campus. They offer resources and support to make your housing experience easier—whether you need advice about your rights as a renter, help with landlord or roommate issues or just want to learn more about being a good neighbor. You can visit their office at UMC 313 or send an email to offcampuslife@colorado.edu for tips. If you want firsthand advice about living in Boulder, connect with a neighborhood ambassador to hear from someone who’s been there.

Looking for more support while living off campus or commuting to campus? Beyond Campus Buffs is designed especially for first-year students and commuters. Drop by the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102 to meet other students and get helpful info.

Traditional

White

How to talk to others with a different point of view

Anonymous — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:25:24 +0000

How to talk to others with a different point of view Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 10/09/2025 - 10:25

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

Listen to this article

Having conversations with people who have different perspectives can be a great opportunity to learn and grow, especially in college when you’re developing your own opinions.

By listening and understanding where someone else is coming from, you give yourself the chance to learn new things, find common ground and become a better person. And if you find that you disagree with someone, talking it out is an essential skill that can help build trust and strengthen relationships.

Here are some ways to turn a difficult conversation into a thoughtful discussion.

Approach conversations with an open mind

College is a great place to consider new ideas and hear different viewpoints. When you listen with genuine curiosity and let others share their thoughts, you’re giving yourself the chance to learn more and see things from new angles.

Remember, everyone’s background and life story affects how they see the world—including yours! Take some time to think about how your beliefs and opinions came to be, and stay open to learning how someone else’s experiences have shaped their views, too.

Prioritize listening

During a conversation, it can be common for people to think about their response while the other person is talking, instead of fully paying attention to what’s being said. Conversations aren’t about “winning” or proving someone wrong—they’re about exploring different ideas together.

Try to listen with the goal of understanding, and not just to respond. Setting the intention to listen will help you approach conversation more openly rather than coming to it with set points and arguments.

When someone’s talking, give them your full attention. Ask questions if you’re not sure what they mean, and genuinely encourage them to share more about their perspective. This approach can make you a better communicator, and it helps others feel valued and listened to—which is key for having honest, open conversations.

Practice effective communication strategies

Having good communication skills can help direct the conversation in a productive way. Here are some skills to use when talking with someone with a different perspective:

Be mindful. If someone feels passionate about a topic, it may bring up strong feelings. But remember, you can only control what you say and how you say it, so tone and demeanor matter. Arguing may feel satisfying in the moment, but it’s often an ineffective communication tool.

Ask open-ended questions. Get curious about where the other person is coming from, and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of how the person has come to their perspective.

Use reflections to clarify. Restating what you think someone is saying gives them a chance to clear up any confusion or explain more about what they mean. You don’t have to agree with them to show you’re making an effort to understand where they’re coming from.

Acknowledge different perspectives. Whether someone agrees with another person’s position or not, they can acknowledge or affirm what is important to them and the values that form their perspective. Recognizing a shared value (such as caring for others, autonomy, honesty or integrity) that underlies a viewpoint can be a way of bridging differences.

Before you share your own thoughts, try to repeat back what you understood the other person is saying. This shows you’re listening and makes them feel heard. When you respond, use “and” instead of “but” to connect your ideas. For example, you could say, “I understand where you’re coming from, and I have a different point of view. Here’s how I see it...” Using “and” helps keep the conversation open and respectful, so the other person doesn’t feel shut down or defensive.

Remember, it’s okay if you don’t resolve every difference in one conversation. You can always leave space to revisit the issue later, allowing everyone time to reflect and return with a fresh perspective. Most importantly, end your discussion with appreciation for the other person’s willingness to talk things through—expressing gratitude builds trust and keeps the lines of communication open for the future.

Find support

�� Boulder offers programs and spaces for people to share their perspectives and learn skills to have thoughtful conversations.

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR)
SCCR helps students develop skills for having challenging conversations through conflict coaching, mediation and consultation services.

Center for Cultural Connections & Community
The Center offers various events, programs and groups where students, faculty and staff can join fellow Buffs to share their experiences and learn from others in a welcoming space.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI)
CSI offers resources for student activism and guidance for Buffs looking to get more involved in civic engagement.

�� Student Government (��SG)
��SG, the official governing and representative body of the student population, provides a space for Buffs to bring attention to and respectfully discuss issues they are passionate about.

Office of Institutional Equity & Compliance (OIEC)
OIEC offers skills-based workshops for students, faculty and staff to effectively work across differences and build healthy workplaces, classrooms and relationships.

Having conversations with people who have different perspectives can be a great opportunity to learn and grow, especially in college when you’re developing your own opinions. Here are some ways to turn what may be a difficult conversation into a thoughtful discussion.

Traditional

White

Off-campus housing: When should you start your search?

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 17:18:05 +0000

Off-campus housing: When should you start your search? Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 10/06/2025 - 11:18

Off-Campus Life

Listen to this article

If you're thinking about living off campus next year, you might feel pressure to sign a lease super early—but you don’t have to rush! In fact, giving yourself more time can help you make smarter choices and avoid overpaying.

Here’s why waiting to start your housing search can work in your favor:

You’ll have a better idea of your future plans (study abroad, class locations, internships, etc.)

You’ll have time to find ideal roommates

More housing options pop up in the spring semester

You might see better deals as the new school year gets closer

You can tour properties and get your lease reviewed for free by a legal advisor

Check out this recommended housing search timeline from Off-Campus Life.

October–December

This time of the year is known for “early leasing,” and Buffs, you don’t need to sign a lease this early. You’re still settling into your current housing, your needs and preferences might change, and prices are usually the highest during this time.

Our Fall Housing Fair will be Wednesday, Nov. 19 in the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom, giving you the chance to start exploring your options for next year. You can meet with dozens of landlords and property managers, learn about available properties and enjoy free pizza and prizes!

January–May

The spring semester is the best time for most students to complete their housing search.

Tons of rental options become available, and you’ll have a better idea of what you want and who you want to live with.

Our Spring Housing Fair will take place Wednesday, March 4. Like the fall fair, you’ll have the chance to meet with property managers and learn about available properties. You can explore listings on Ralphie’s List.

June-August

If you’re still looking for housing at this point of the year, that’s okay! You’re not alone. Searching for housing during the summer can be great for transfer students, late admits or those coming off the on-campus waitlist. Many students find affordable rentals and roommates during this time.

Finding off-campus housing can be an exciting opportunity to create your ideal living situation. By starting your search at the right time and making use of helpful university housing resources, you’ll be empowered to make smart, confident choices for next year’s student housing. No matter where you are in your planning, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

Have questions or want more guidance? Connect with Off-Campus Life to make your university housing journey successful.

Traditional

White

How to prepare for cold and flu season

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 22:05:58 +0000

How to prepare for cold and flu season Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 09/15/2025 - 16:05

Medical Services

Listen to this article

As the weather cools and campus life gets busier, take proactive steps and protect yourself from seasonal illnesses. Being informed and making simple changes to your routine can make a big difference in keeping you and your friends healthy throughout the semester. Take precautions this season by following these tips.

Get vaccinated

Vaccines, like flu shots, can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of your symptoms if you end up falling ill.

Buffs can get a free flu shot at one of our clinics around campus, starting Sept. 15. Student flu shots are available by appointment only—sign up through your student health portal.

Avoid the spread

Practicing good hygiene habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses and prevent the spread of illnesses. Here are some ways you can help yourself and others:

Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating, after using the restroom and after class. Be sure to use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

Remind your friends, roommates and peers to cover their coughs and sneezes, even if it’s just seasonal allergies.

Wipe down commonly used surfaces in your home or residence hall, including door handles, toilets, faucets, remotes and other areas you and your roommates touch regularly.

Avoid sharing personal products and utensils with others. This includes things like lip balm, food, beverages, and (if you are using) vapes and other products. You may also choose to wear a mask to reduce your exposure to respiratory illnesses.

Limit time in shared spaces, when you can, to help stop germs from spreading around your residence hall or apartment.

Take care of yourself

Did you know that your immune system can be affected by the things you do every day? Here are a few ways to take care of yourself and protect your immune system.

Getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night can help strengthen your body and immune system against illnesses. Try creating a routine where you wake up and go to bed at the same time each night to ensure you get enough sleep.

Eating a variety of foods regularly can help you maintain your energy and ward off viral and bacterial infections. Try adding vitamin-dense fruits and vegetables to each of your meals.

Staying hydrated can help loosen mucus and increase blood flow. Carrying a refillable water bottle and using water stations around campus is a great way to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.

Staying physically active can help your body build resilience against infectious diseases. Strive for at least 30 minutes of activity each day. This can include everything from walks across campus and trips to The Rec to playing yard games outside with friends. Remember to wash your hands after visiting public places—gym equipment can have lots of germs!

Taking time to relax and manage stress is important to keep your immune system running at full capacity. Experiencing stress may affect self-care routines and lower the body's resistance to infections.

Additionally, take time to review your health insurance policy to understand which providers and facilities are covered. This way, you’re prepared to access care with minimal out-of-pocket costs if you need it.

By taking charge of your health and making smart choices now, you’ll be setting yourself up for an energized, productive semester—so you can focus on classes, campus life, and everything college has to offer.

What to do if you get sick

If you start feeling under the weather, it’s important to take quick action to protect your health and prevent the spreading of illness to others. By following a few simple steps, you can recover more comfortably and help keep your community safe.

Learn more: What to do if you get sick

As the weather cools and campus life gets busy, it’s important to protect yourself from seasonal illnesses. Here are some tips to stay healthy this semester.

Zebra Striped

White

Stand out at fall career fairs: Essential prep tips for students

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:54:40 +0000

Stand out at fall career fairs: Essential prep tips for students Valerie Padilla Thu, 09/11/2025 - 10:54

Career Services

Listen to this article

Are you looking for a job or internship this year? Career Services hosts career fairs each semester to connect students with potential employers. Even if you are not actively job searching, these events are a great way to learn about opportunities, stay updated on industry trends and practice your networking skills.

Here are some tips for making the most of in-person and virtual career fairs.

Register on Handshake

�� Boulder students and alumni from all majors, experience levels and backgrounds can use Handshake to register for career fairs, find event details and see a list of employers attending. Current students already have an account—simply log in and follow these steps to complete your profile.

For virtual career fairs, use Handshake to sign up for “Available Sessions,” like one-on-ones with a recruiter or group sessions on different company-specific topics.

At in-person career fairs, each employer will have a QR code for you to scan at their table. This allows them to collect a list of all the students who checked in with them. They can then view your profile, download your resume and message you on Handshake after the fair. Make sure your profile is public and complete by including your major, school year, preferred name and resume.

Review the list of upcoming career fairs to see which events best fit your interests.

Attend workshops to prep

Career Services is hosting two free workshops to help you get ready for the fall career fairs:

Prepare for the Virtual Career Fairs Workshop on Oct. 1

Prepare for the Career Fairs with The Center on Oct. 6

Prepare for the Career Fairs on Oct. 13

Get organized

Career fairs are open to everyone, no matter your major or what year you’re in, and employers are looking to fill all kinds of positions. Take a moment to review the list of companies attending and pick out the ones you’re most interested in meeting. New employers are added regularly, so keep checking Handshake for updates leading up to the event. Plan out your schedule ahead of time so you have enough time to talk with your top choices—lines can get long and conversations might take longer than expected.

If you’re going to an in-person fair, don’t forget your Buff OneCard for check-in and bring a few printed copies of your up-to-date resume. Having a notebook and pen is a good idea for jotting down notes. You can bring your bag or backpack, but remember there’s no bag drop, so you’ll need to keep your things with you.

For virtual career fairs, keep your updated resume handy to share with recruiters and have some paper nearby so you can easily take notes on your conversations.

Practice

Get ready to introduce yourself and ask thoughtful questions when you chat with recruiters. Start by sharing your name, your year in college and your major or area of study. Mention the types of jobs or internships you’re interested in and highlight how your classes, campus involvement or work experience relate to those roles.

Coming prepared with questions shows recruiters you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their organization. Check out the top employers you want to connect with and jot down a few questions ahead of time. Great questions can help you get a better idea of company culture and opportunities, while also making you stand out as an engaged candidate.

Dress for success

Whether you’re heading to a career fair on campus or logging in virtually, choose an outfit that feels true to you but also fits the vibe of the jobs you’re interested in. Dressing the part can help boost your confidence and show employers you’re ready to take the next step.

If you’re not sure what’s expected in your field, check out company websites, ask professors or advisors, or reach out to Career Services for advice—there’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to planning your future.

Take notes

Meeting with multiple employers can be an exciting learning experience, and keeping track of your conversations helps you make the most of it. Bring a notebook and pen, or use your phone or laptop, to capture key points from each discussion.

After connecting with recruiters, jot down their contact information and highlight memorable details from your conversation. Noting what stood out about each company will help you follow up thoughtfully and remember your impressions when opportunities arise. These notes could be the boost you need to excel in interviews or to write standout thank-you emails after the fair—setting you apart in the job search process!

Find support

For more tips to help you prepare for career fairs, review our accessibility resources and check out upcoming programs and workshops.

Buffs can also stop by the Career Services office on the fourth floor of the Center for Community (C4C) for a free professional headshot or to have your resume reviewed. If you have questions about the fair, ask a Career Services team member through LiveChat on the Career Services website.

For accommodations including real-time captioning or a sign language interpreter, email adacoordinator@colorado.edu or visit the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance website at least seven days before the event. During the fair, visit the student check-in or info table for assistance or email careerservicesevents@colorado.edu to request an accommodation.

Career Services hosts career fairs each semester to connect students with potential employers, and these events are a great way to learn about opportunities, stay updated on industry trends and practice your networking skills. Here are some tips for making the most of in-person and virtual career fairs this fall.

Zebra Striped

White

Balance classes, work and life like a pro

Emily Sampl — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:50:59 +0000

Balance classes, work and life like a pro Emily Sampl Thu, 08/28/2025 - 14:50

ASAP Tutoring

Listen to this article

Between hanging out with friends, working and keeping up with classes, your schedule can get packed fast. But don’t worry! Here are some time management tips to help you stay on track this semester and still have time for fun.

Get organized

First, get yourself organized. Whether you prefer a calendar, a planner or an app, use something to keep track of your schedule and responsibilities. Mark down things like exam dates, project deadlines, work shifts, club meetings, study sessions and events you want to attend. Regularly check your calendar to see what’s coming up and prioritize what needs to be done.

Block out study times

Set aside specific times each week just for studying or reviewing class materials. Having a routine can help balance schoolwork with social activities and keep you prepared for midterms and finals.

Plan your study sessions

Break down big assignments like papers, projects or exams into smaller tasks with deadlines. This way, you can make steady progress and avoid last-minute stress. For group projects, discuss with your team how to divide tasks and who’s responsible for what. Having a plan helps prevent procrastination and keeps you on top of your work.

Fight distractions

While you're studying, try turning off your phone or leaving it out of reach to help you focus. Set a timer for a focused study session—maybe 15 or 20 minutes—then take a 5-minute break when the timer goes off. Stretch, check your phone or grab a snack. Repeat the process to stay focused and get your work done faster.

Ask for help

If you’re stuck on a problem or don’t understand something from class, don’t struggle alone. Text a classmate, visit your professor during office hours or join a study group.

You can also find support through the Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP Tutoring), which is available to all first-year students, new transfers and students living on campus, and other campus academic resources. The sooner you ask for help, the less likely you are to fall behind.

Traditional

White

Life Skills

3 reasons to work on campus

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Find student jobs

Related Articles

What you can do now to prepare for life after graduation

If you’re in your second year: Explore interests and build skills

If you’re in your third year: Gain experience and get organized

If you’re in your fourth or final year: Launch your career

Find support

Related Articles

Smart grocery shopping tips for college students on a budget

Plan your meals ahead

Use coupons and store deals

Compare prices by unit

Try plant-based options

Upgrade simple meals

Share with roommates

Swap for cheaper items

Find support

Basic Needs Center

Nutrition Services

Community Food Share

Related Articles

How to navigate campus life as an introvert

Schedule social time and downtime

Adapt to crowded situations

Find quiet spaces on campus

Check out student resources

Related Articles

Tips for next year’s housing search

Attend the Fall Housing Fair

Explore different options

Consider transportation needs

Get free legal advice

Find support

Related Articles

How to talk to others with a different point of view

Approach conversations with an open mind

Prioritize listening

Practice effective communication strategies

Find support

Related Articles

Off-campus housing: When should you start your search?

October–December

January–May

June-August

Related Articles

How to prepare for cold and flu season

Get vaccinated

Avoid the spread

Take care of yourself

What to do if you get sick

Related Articles

Stand out at fall career fairs: Essential prep tips for students

Register on Handshake

Attend workshops to prep

Get organized

Practice

Dress for success

Take notes

Find support

Related Articles

Balance classes, work and life like a pro

Get organized

Block out study times

Plan your study sessions

Fight distractions

Ask for help

Related Articles