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How to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 17:25:41 +0000

How to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 08/25/2026 - 11:25

It can be hard to know what to say or do when you’re worried about a friend, roommate, classmate or another student. Here are some ways you can help your fellow Buffs. You don’t need to know for sure that someone is thinking about suicide before you check in—and you don’t have to handle the situation on your own.

For 24/7 crisis support, call Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) at 303-492-2277 or call or text 988.

If you think someone may be in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves right now, call 911.

Know some of the warning signs of suicide

There isn’t one sign that tells you for sure that someone is thinking about suicide. If someone starts acting differently, says something that concerns you or seems to be having an especially difficult time, it’s okay to check in.

Warning signs may include:

Talking about wanting to die or suicide

Feeling hopeless, trapped or like there’s no reason to live

Talking about being a burden to others

Withdrawing from friends or activities

Giving away important belongings or saying goodbye

Taking unusual or dangerous risks

Experiencing extreme mood changes

Significant changes in sleep or eating

Using alcohol or other substances more often

You don’t need to use this list as a checklist. If something feels off—maybe your roommate hasn’t left their room much, a friend has stopped showing up to class or someone says something that worries you—trust your concern and reach out.

Start the conversation

Find a private time to talk and start with what you’ve noticed.

You could say:

“Hey, you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. How are you doing?”

“I’ve noticed you’ve been missing class and haven’t been around much. I’m worried about you.”

“You seemed really overwhelmed yesterday. Want to talk about what’s going on?”

You don’t need the perfect opening. Showing someone that you’ve noticed a change and care about them is a good place to start.

Ask directly about suicide

If you’re wondering whether someone may be thinking about suicide, ask them directly:

“I’m asking because I care about you. Are you thinking about suicide?”

Asking about suicide does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior. Being direct gives someone an opportunity to tell you what they’re experiencing.

If they say no, you can still listen and offer support. If they say yes, take them seriously and help them connect with support.

If they say they’re thinking about suicide

Hearing “yes” can feel scary. You don’t need to figure everything out yourself. Focus on being present and getting support.

Listen without judgment. Give them space to talk rather than debating, lecturing or trying to solve everything. You might say, “I’m really glad you told me,” or, “Let’s figure out who we can reach out to together.”

Don’t promise to keep it secret. If you’re worried about their safety, getting help is more important than keeping the conversation between the two of you.

Connect them with support. Offer to sit with them while they call CAPS or 988. You can also call CAPS yourself if you’re concerned about another student and need guidance.

If you believe they may harm themselves right now, call 911. If someone tells you they are going to kill themselves, don’t leave them alone. Get professional or emergency support rather than trying to manage the situation yourself.

What if you can’t reach them?

Maybe a friend sent you a concerning text and stopped responding, or you have another reason to be seriously worried about their safety.

A welfare check may be an option when you can’t contact someone or confirm that they’re safe.

On campus: CUPD at 303-492-6666

Off campus in Boulder: Boulder Police at 303-441-3333

Outside Boulder: Contact the local emergency or law enforcement agency where the person is located.

Not everyone feels safer when police are involved, and a welfare check may not be the right response in every situation. If there isn’t an immediate life-threatening emergency and you’re unsure what to do, call CAPS at 303-492-2277 for guidance.

Check in again

Support doesn’t have to end after the conversation. Send a text the next day, grab food together, walk to class or simply ask how they’re doing.

At the same time, you aren’t responsible for someone else’s mental health or for keeping them safe by yourself. Bring professional resources and other trusted people into their support system.

Take care of yourself, too

Supporting a friend who is struggling can be a lot to hold, especially if you're worried about their safety. You can ask for help for yourself, too.

CAPS can provide guidance if you're concerned about another student. Talking with someone you trust, getting support or taking time to decompress after a difficult conversation can also help.

Where to get help at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder

If someone needs urgent or same-day mental health support

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): Call 303-492-2277 for 24/7 support. CAPS provides crisis and urgent mental health support and can also help if you're concerned about another student.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support.

Life-threatening emergency: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

If a student needs help navigating a difficult situation

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS): SOAS provides non-clinical case management and can help students navigate challenging circumstances and connect with campus and community resources. SOAS is not an emergency or crisis service.

If you want to learn how to support others

Ask the Question: This one-hour training helps participants feel more prepared to recognize warning signs for suicide, respond effectively, and refer to campus resources.

Mental Health First Aid: This nationally recognized, full-day training can help students learn to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use concerns and connect people with appropriate support.

Remember—you don’t need to diagnose someone, determine exactly how much danger they’re in or find the perfect words. Being the person who notices something is wrong and helps a fellow Buff connect with support can make a meaningful difference.

Thinking about talking to a therapist about suicide?

If you’re having thoughts of suicide yourself, you may be worried about what will happen if you tell a therapist. Will you have to go to the hospital? What will they ask? Who will know?

Learn what you can expect when you talk to a therapist about suicide, including how therapists assess your safety, what safety planning may look like and when hospitalization may be considered.

Starting a conversation about suicide, even briefly, can make a meaningful difference. It can help someone feel seen, heard and supported enough to reach out for help. Here are some tips you can use if you’re concerned that a friend, roommate or classmate may be struggling or thinking about suicide.

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Hazing: 5 things every student should know

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 21:37:34 +0000

Hazing: 5 things every student should know Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/24/2026 - 15:37

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

College is full of opportunities to meet people, try new things and find communities where you feel connected, supported and able to pursue your passions. Joining a group can be a meaningful part of your college experience, and belonging should never require you to put your health, safety or well-being at risk.

Hazing can happen in any group, and it isn’t always obvious or dramatic. Knowing what hazing looks like can help you recognize concerning behavior, support others and speak up before a situation escalates.

Here are five things every student should know about hazing.

1. Hazing can happen in any group

Hazing can happen in any group where people are joining, participating or trying to gain status.

This can include:

Fraternities and sororities

Student organizations and clubs

Sport clubs and athletic teams

Student employment teams

Academic programs, cohorts, labs and research groups

Performance groups

Informal friend groups and student communities

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses or endangers them, regardless of whether they are willing to participate.

Some hazing behaviors may be described as traditions, bonding experiences, team-building activities or simply “the way things have always been done.” How something is portrayed doesn’t determine whether it is hazing—what matters is the effect it has on someone.

Learn more about hazing prevention and reporting.

2. Hazing isn’t always obvious

Some forms of hazing are more visible, such as physical violence or forcing someone to consume alcohol. Others can be harder to identify.

Hazing isn’t always a single event or dramatic activity. It can involve repeated expectations, pressure or treatment that may seem minor at first but can become harmful over time.

Hazing can include behaviors that intimidate, humiliate, isolate, exhaust or pressure someone. Examples may include:

Sleep deprivation or excessive physical demands

Forced or pressured alcohol or substance use

Being denied food, water or other basic needs

Demeaning or targeted name-calling

Public humiliation or embarrassing performances, including wearing costumes

Requiring new members to perform personal errands or services for other members

Forced isolation or exclusion

Threats, intimidation or interrogation

Being required to wear embarrassing clothing

Sexual harassment, unwanted touching or sexual acts

Dangerous activities or exposure to harsh conditions

Secrecy or pressure to hide what happens within the group

Sometimes individual activities may seem minor on their own. However, patterns of pressure, unequal treatment, secrecy or escalating expectations can be signs that something is wrong.

If you aren’t sure whether an activity is hazing, consider:

Is someone expected to do this to join, remain in or gain status within the group?

Could the activity humiliate, degrade, abuse or endanger someone?

Is there pressure to participate or stay quiet?

What happens if someone says no or decides not to participate?

Would the group be comfortable describing the activity openly to others?

You don’t have to wait until someone gets hurt to take a concern seriously.

3. Willingness to participate doesn’t make hazing OK

People may participate in hazing for many reasons. They may want to belong, worry about disappointing friends or feel like they have to earn their place.

Students may also see hazing as a rite of passage or a way to prove their commitment to the group. They may believe going through the same experience as previous members will help them earn respect or strengthen their connection to the group.

That doesn’t make a harmful activity OK.

Students deserve to build friendships, traditions and a sense of belonging without having to earn acceptance through humiliation, fear, coercion or harm.

If you’re a student leader, team member or someone helping plan group activities, consider what you want the experience to accomplish. There are plenty of ways to build trust, celebrate traditions and welcome new members without putting someone at risk.

4. Knowing the signs can help you support someone

Hazing can affect a person’s physical and emotional well-being, academics, relationships and daily life.

Someone experiencing hazing may:

Suddenly spend most of their time on group activities

Miss class, work or other commitments

Seem unusually tired or experience changes in their sleep

Become more anxious, withdrawn or secretive

Express fear about what will happen if they don’t participate

Pull away from friends or activities they usually enjoy

Describe group traditions that sound humiliating, coercive, unsafe or harmful

Have unexplained injuries or changes in their physical well-being

One sign doesn’t necessarily mean someone is experiencing hazing. Instead, pay attention to changes and trust yourself if something seems off.

If you’re concerned about a friend, you can start with a simple conversation. For example, you might say, “You’ve been really busy with your group lately. How are things going?”

Share what you’ve noticed without judgment and give them space to talk. Listen, ask what they need and help them explore their options. They may want support, information or help reporting what is happening.

Keep checking in, even if they aren’t ready to take action right away.

Learn more about the signs of hazing.

5. You can report hazing—even if you’re not sure

You don’t have to investigate a situation or decide whether it officially qualifies as hazing before reaching out for support or reporting a concern.

If something feels unsafe, coercive, humiliating or concerning, you can share what you know with the university. Reporting concerns early can help prevent situations from escalating and connect students and organizations with support.

When you report a concern, Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR) reviews the information and determines appropriate next steps, which may include assessing risk, following up with those involved, providing resources and addressing potential policy violations.

You can also report a concern about something you’ve experienced, witnessed or learned about from someone else.

Learn how to report hazing or submit an anonymous report through SCCR.

Speaking up can feel difficult, especially when friends, teammates, coworkers or other people you care about are involved. But looking out for each other is a skill that can be improved to help ensure that everyone can find community and belong without harm.

Find support and report concerns

You don’t have to handle a concern about hazing on your own. SCCR is the place to report suspected hazing, while other campus resources can help you find support, understand your options or help someone else.

Report hazing

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR)
If you have experienced, witnessed or learned about potential hazing, report your concern to SCCR. You don’t need to be certain that something qualifies as hazing before making a report. SCCR reviews reports and determines appropriate next steps.

Find support

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS)
SOAS provides individualized support for students navigating challenging situations. Case managers can help you identify your needs and connect with campus and community resources.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling for students, graduate students, faculty and staff who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or disruptive event, including hazing.

Don’t Ignore It
Learn how to recognize and respond to concerning situations, support someone who may be experiencing harm and build skills to look out for others in the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder community.

College is full of opportunities to meet new people and join groups, and sometimes the pressure to fit in can lead groups to put new members at risk of harm. Here are some things to know about hazing.

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Key tips for living with roommates

Anonymous — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 15:44:43 +0000

Key tips for living with roommates Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 08/13/2026 - 09:44

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

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

Get to know your roommate

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

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

Set ground rules together

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

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

Be open to compromise

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

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

Respect each other’s space and belongings

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

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

Address issues quickly and in person

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

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

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

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

Find support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Having friends over? Plan ahead and avoid drama

Emily Sampl — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Having friends over? Plan ahead and avoid drama Emily Sampl Tue, 08/11/2026 - 00:00

Off-Campus Life

Having friends over? Whether it’s a few people hanging out or a bigger party, take a few minutes to plan ahead.

Register your party with Off-Campus Life and the Boulder Police Department. Registration is free and can help you avoid tickets while being a good neighbor.

Why register your party?

Get a warning about noise complaints. If a neighbor reports noise to the Boulder Police Department, registered parties can receive a warning before police arrive, giving you 20 minutes to turn things down. That means less disruption for your neighbors and a chance to address the issue before it escalates.

It’s free. Party registration costs $0, and Off-Campus Life sometimes offers swag or other incentives for registering.

Any gathering can qualify. There’s no minimum party size. If you think your gathering could get loud, you can register it.

Registering for the first time? You’ll need to complete a brief orientation with Off-Campus Life. Once you complete it, you can register parties throughout the school year.

Learn how to register your party

Know the rules before you host

Party registration can help with noise complaints, but it isn’t a free pass to ignore Boulder laws and ordinances. A few ways to keep the night fun and avoid unnecessary drama:

Keep music and conversations at a reasonable volume, especially later at night.

Give your neighbors a heads-up if you’re expecting people over.

Make a plan for guests to get home safely.

Skip the fireworks.

Remember: Fireworks are illegal in Boulder

Fireworks—including sparklers, snaps, snakes, bottle rockets, Roman candles and smoke bombs—are illegal in the city of Boulder.

They can also create a serious fire risk, especially when conditions are dry. If you’re hosting, make sure your roommates and guests know fireworks aren’t part of the plan. You can still be held responsible for what happens at your residence.

Find Support

Off-Campus Life can help with party registration, Boulder ordinances and other questions about living off campus.

Student Legal Services can help eligible students understand legal questions, tickets and other issues.

And if friends need a safe way home, �鶹��Ѱ��NightRide provides free evening transportation within Boulder city limits.

Want to host a party without worrying about noise complaints or expensive tickets? Register your party with Off-Campus Life and the Boulder Police Department.

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5 ways to stay healthy and thrive this semester

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 17:11:09 +0000

5 ways to stay healthy and thrive this semester Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/06/2026 - 11:11

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The first few weeks of the semester are an exciting time full of new opportunities. You're building routines, starting classes, meeting new people and finding your rhythm. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away—this is your time to explore and grow.

Developing a few healthy habits now can help you stay focused, feel your best and make the most of your semester at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder.

1. Build a routine that works for you

A consistent routine can make the transition into a new semester much easier. Try setting regular times for classes, studying, meals, exercise and sleep. Having a plan can help you stay organized and make it easier to adjust when your schedule changes.

If you'd like help creating healthy habits or setting goals, meet with a peer wellness coach. These trained student coaches can help you build routines that fit your schedule and connect you with campus resources that support your well-being.

2. Ask for help early

It's normal to feel stressed, homesick or overwhelmed at times, especially during the first few weeks of the semester. Reaching out early can help you work through challenges before they become bigger obstacles.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers same-day drop-in hours, consultations, workshops and other mental health support for students. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns or simply need someone to talk to, support is available.

3. Stay on top of your classes

Success in college comes from building good habits over time. Attend class, review your syllabi, keep up with assignments and visit your instructors during office hours when you have questions. Taking small steps early can help reduce stress later in the semester.

Looking for additional support? Disability Services is offering free workshops to help students build academic skills and adjust to college life.

4. Stay active and make connections

Taking care of your well-being includes staying active, exploring new activities and connecting with others. These experiences can improve your mood, reduce stress and help you feel more connected on campus.

Whether you enjoy team sports, group fitness or trying something new, Campus Recreation & Well-Being offers plenty of ways to get involved through Intramural Sports, Sport Clubs, fitness classes and other recreation programs.

5. Take care of your health

College campuses are busy places, so simple habits like washing your hands, staying hydrated, eating balanced meals and getting enough sleep can go a long way toward helping you stay healthy.

If you aren't feeling well, Medical Services can help with primary care appointments for all students. You can also stop by a Wellness Suite for free cold care supplies or, if you live in the residence halls, order a Buff Box with items like tea, honey sticks and cough drops.

You've got this

No matter what this semester brings, remember that you don't have to navigate it alone. Start with a few healthy habits, give yourself time to adjust and ask for support when you need it. The sooner you build routines that work for you, the easier it can be to stay healthy, focused and ready for whatever the semester brings.

Developing a few healthy habits now can help you stay focused, feel your best and make the most of your semester at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder.

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What are office hours? Here's why you should go

Anonymous — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What are office hours? Here's why you should go Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 08/04/2026 - 00:00

ASAP Tutoring

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Starting college comes with lots of new experiences, and office hours are one of them. If you've never been to office hours before, you're not alone.

Office hours are times your professor sets aside each week to meet with students outside of class. You don't have to be struggling or have a major problem to stop by. They're there to answer questions, explain course material and help you succeed.

Meeting with your professor early in the semester can help you feel more confident, understand class expectations and make it easier to ask questions later. Here's how to make the most of office hours.

Start with a simple introduction

You don't need to wait until you're confused or falling behind to visit office hours.

Early in the semester, stop by to introduce yourself, ask about the course or learn more about your professor's teaching style. Building that connection now can make future conversations feel much easier.

Later in the semester, office hours are also a great place to:

Ask questions about assignments or course material.

Review feedback on quizzes or exams.

Catch up after missing class.

Explore topics you're interested in.

Ask about research, careers or graduate school.

Not sure what to ask?

If you're worried about showing up without the "perfect" question, don't be. Professors expect students to ask questions, and they want to help.

Here are a few conversation starters:

What's the best way to study for this class?

What topics should I focus on first?

Can you explain this concept another way?

How does this week's reading connect to what we covered in class?

Do you have advice for preparing for the first exam or project?

If your scheduled office hours conflict with another class, check your syllabus or email your professor to ask about another meeting time.

Make the most of your visit

A little preparation can help you get the most from office hours.

Before you go:

Bring your notes, assignments or questions.

Write down the topics you want to discuss.

During your visit:

Start with your biggest questions.

Take notes so you remember key ideas.

Ask follow-up questions if something is still unclear.

If you need more support, ask about next steps or schedule another meeting.

You don't have to figure it out alone

Office hours are just one of many ways to get academic support at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder.

If you're a first-year student or live on campus, the Academic Success & Achievement Program (ASAP Tutoring) connects you with free peer tutoring, study support and other resources to help you succeed. ASAP Tutoring also offers a Lending Library where you can borrow textbooks for many general education and lower-division courses.

Looking for additional help? �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder also offers tutoring and learning resources across campus, including subject-specific tutoring, academic skill development and other support services. Many are free, and others are available at a low cost.

Whether you're asking your professor a quick question, meeting with an ASAP peer tutor or using another campus resource, getting help early can make classes less stressful and help you build confidence throughout the semester.

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Using AI in your classes: What every Buff should know

Anonymous — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Using AI in your classes: What every Buff should know Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 07/31/2026 - 00:00

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

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AI tools like ChatGPT can be helpful for brainstorming ideas, studying and improving your work. But when it comes to class assignments, every course has different expectations.

Before you use AI for coursework, make sure you understand your instructor’s guidelines. Following your course expectations and the Honor Code will help you use AI responsibly while protecting your academic integrity.

Here are three things every Buff should know.

1. Understand how the Honor Code applies to AI

There isn’t one campus-wide rule for using AI in coursework. Instead, each instructor decides whether and how AI tools can be used in their class.

That means it’s your responsibility to understand the expectations for every course before using ChatGPT or other AI tools.

Keep these reminders in mind:

Your instructor sets the rules. Your syllabus and assignment instructions explain whether AI is allowed and how it can be used.

The Honor Code still applies. Using AI in ways your instructor hasn’t approved, especially if it gives you an unfair academic advantage, may be considered an Honor Code violation.

Plagiarism is still plagiarism. Whether content comes from a website, another person or an AI tool, submitting work that isn’t your own without permission or proper attribution violates the Honor Code.

2. Read the syllabus and ask questions

Every course is different. Some instructors may encourage AI for certain assignments, while others may limit or prohibit its use.

Before using AI, take a few minutes to:

Read your syllabus and assignment instructions carefully.

Check for any AI or academic integrity guidelines.

Ask your instructor if you’re unsure what’s allowed.

It’s always better to ask before you submit an assignment than to make assumptions.

Remember, AI should support your learning, not replace it. Depending on your instructor’s expectations, AI may be appropriate for brainstorming ideas, organizing your thoughts or reviewing your work. Having AI complete assignments or writing that you submit as your own is generally not allowed unless your instructor has specifically approved it.

3. Know what can happen if you misuse AI

Using AI in a way that doesn’t follow your instructor’s expectations could result in an Honor Code violation.

If that happens:

Each situation is reviewed individually. Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution considers the specific circumstances of each case.

Your instructor determines the academic outcome. Faculty decide how Honor Code violations affect grades or coursework in their class.

The best way to avoid problems is simple: know your course expectations, ask questions when you’re unsure and use AI responsibly.

Need help with an assignment?

If you’re stuck on an assignment, there are plenty of resources that can help you learn, build your skills and succeed in your classes.

Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP Tutoring)
First-year students and students living on campus can access free peer tutoring, study resources and the Textbook Lending Library.

The Writing Center
Get one-on-one support from trained writing consultants at any stage of the writing process—from brainstorming and organizing ideas to revising your final draft.

Disability Services
If you use testing or classroom accommodations, connect with your access coordinator to discuss how your accommodations will be implemented and ask any questions you may have.

Curious about using AI tools like ChatGPT in your classes? Here are three important things to know about using AI tools in your coursework.

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5 steps for a smooth move

Anonymous — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:53:53 +0000

5 steps for a smooth move Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 04/27/2026 - 09:53

Off-Campus Life

Are you moving into a new home or apartment off campus? Here are some key tips for a successful move from Off-Campus Life.

1. Get legal advice

Leases can be complex, so read yours carefully to understand your rights and responsibilities. Consider having it reviewed by an expert and sign up for a free lease review with Off-Campus Life’s staff attorney to clarify important terms. Student Legal Services also offers lease reviews and consultations for students.

2. Fill out an apartment condition sheet

When you move into a new apartment, make sure you complete an apartment condition sheet. Your landlord should provide you with this form, but if not, you can use this check-in/check-out sheet.

Complete this and take photos before you move in to document the condition of the apartment. This is the best way to get your security deposit back when it’s time to move out and prove you didn't cause any pre-existing damage.

3. Set up utilities

Check with your landlord and review your lease to see what utilities you are responsible for. This includes things like electricity, water, trash, cable and internet. Some of these utilities may need to be in your name while you are living at the property. If you plan on living with roommates, decide who will pay for which utilities and how the costs will be divided.

4. Consider purchasing renters insurance

Renters insurance protects your belongings and residence if property is damaged—insurance through your landlord typically does not cover personal belongings. Renters insurance is affordable, often as low as $10 a month, and can save you money over time.

If you get renters insurance, make a quick video of your apartment after moving in. Open all closets, drawers, and cabinets to document their condition. This will help you file a claim if needed.

5. Check in with your landlord

After completing the previous steps, consult your landlord for any additional check-in procedures. Some landlords may require specific documents to be submitted by a certain date or proof that you have arranged your utilities. Refer to your lease or contact your landlord to ensure you comply with all check-in requirements and be mindful of any deadlines set by your landlord for these tasks.

After you move into your new place, here are some other steps to take:

Complete a roommate agreement. Completing a roommate agreement can prevent common disputes. Use this sample form to address quiet times, pets, parties and overnight guests with your roommates.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Print and fill out these contact cards to share with your neighbors or stop by the Off-Campus Life office in UMC 313 to pick up hard copies.

Know city ordinances. Be aware of city ordinances when you move to a residence in Boulder to avoid getting tickets and large fines.

Moving off campus can be an exciting transition. Remember, Off-Campus Life is here to help you every step of the way. Whether it’s through lease reviews or offering guidance on city ordinances, you have support settling into your new community.

Are you moving into a new home or apartment off campus? Here are some key tips for a successful move from Off-Campus Life.

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Job hunting after graduation? Start here!

Lynia Herrington — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:54:03 +0000

Job hunting after graduation? Start here! Lynia Herrington Wed, 04/15/2026 - 08:54

By Career Services

The transition from being a college student to what comes next doesn’t have to be something you navigate alone. No matter where you are in the process of figuring things out, Career Services is here to help.

As a Forever Buff, you can keep using many �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder career resources after graduation.

Find jobs on Handshake

You don’t lose access to Handshake after graduation. As an alum, you can continue searching for jobs, internships and part-time roles.

A complete, public profile makes a big difference—students and alumni with completed profiles are much more likely to be seen by employers. You can also review tips for building your profile and setting up job searches based on your major and interests.

Attend career events

Forever Buffs are always welcome at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder career and internship fairs, plus workshops, panels and info sessions for alumni. Many events are offered both in person and virtually, so you can join no matter where you live.

Use Handshake to register and stay up to date on event details.

Connect with your network

Your network can play a big role in your career journey, sometimes even more than job boards alone. Staying connected with other professionals can also help you:

Learn about career paths and industries

Find job and internship opportunities

Get advice from people who’ve been where you want to go

Here are a couple tools you can use to grow your network:

The Forever Buffs Network: This platform connects �鶹��Ѱ��students and alumni from around the world. You can create an account, message alumni and set up informational interviews to learn about roles or industries you’re curious about. No matter where you move, there’s likely a �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alumni chapter nearby.

LinkedIn: If you don’t already have one, LinkedIn is a great way to build a professional online presence. You can connect with people, explore companies, follow industries and discover job openings—all in one place.

Also, don’t forget about the people you already know: professors, supervisors, coworkers, classmates, friends and family. Let them know what you’re interested in and that you’re open to opportunities.

Get support from Career Services

Career Services is here to help at every stage. Career development advisors and peer career advisors can support you with:

Exploring career interests

Writing and updating resumes

Preparing for interviews

Planning your job search

You’ll also have access to tools like Quinncia, a free AI resume editor, and other on-demand career resources.

New graduates receive free career advising for one year after graduation, followed by two free appointments every year for life. Additional appointments are available for $30.

Learn more about getting started with Career Services as a Forever Buff.

Career Services is here to support you even after graduation. Take advantage of these resources available for Forever Buffs.

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6 things to know about cannabis

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:00:28 +0000

6 things to know about cannabis Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 04/02/2026 - 16:00

Health Promotion

Cannabis shows up in a lot of different forms, and experiences with it can vary a lot from person to person. Whether you use cannabis, are curious about it or choose not to use it at all, here are six important things to know.

1. Intentions matter

Cannabis can create both wanted and unwanted effects. Some people use it to relax, feel social or enjoy music and food. Others notice challenges like trouble concentrating, feeling foggy, worsening mental health symptoms including suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and psychosis, or impacts school and relationships.

Taking time to reflect on why you’re using can help you notice whether cannabis is supporting your goals or getting in the way. It’s also important to know that cannabis can affect everyone differently and use under age 25 may impact brain development.

Also, cannabis use isn’t as universal as it may seem. According to national campus data, about two‑thirds of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder students surveyed reported not using cannabis in the past three months.

Curious about your habits?

Get anonymous, online feedback about your cannabis use—no meeting required.

2. Not all cannabis is the same

Cannabis products can look very different—and so can their strength.

Flower (bud): often around 10–30% THC

Concentrates (like dabs, wax or oils): can be 40–90% THC

Today's cannabis is not natural. That is, cannabis flower today is selectively crossbred and utilizes growing technology to have a much higher concentration of THC. It is far from the plant that it was before humans used science to change it.

Stronger products increase the chance of unwanted effects like anxiety, nausea or feeling out of control. Your experience may be different from someone else.

Note: Nearly all cannabis today is much more potent than what was used 20 or 30 years ago. This means today’s cannabis is more likely to cause unwanted experiences and it is much easier to become addicted than in the past.

Image credit: FirstLight IMPACT Feedback

If you use cannabis or other substances, check out the continuum of use and determine where you land.

Edibles also work differently than smoking or vaping.

There’s no universal serving size

In Colorado, one serving is defined as 10 mg of THC, which may be too much for some people

Effects can take up to two hours to start and up to four hours to fully peak

Because the effects are delayed, it’s easy to re‑dose too soon. Always check the label and give your body time before deciding to use more.

3. Cannabis can affect your sleep

Cannabis may help some people fall asleep faster, but that doesn’t mean the sleep is better.

Image credit: FirstLight IMPACT Feedback

Using cannabis changes the normal sleep cycle, especially REM sleep, which is the stage connected to dreaming, memory, mood and mental recovery. When cannabis is in your system, people tend to spend less time in REM sleep and more time in lighter, less restorative stages of sleep.

Because of this, even if you fall asleep quickly, you may:

Feel more tired or low‑energy the next day

Have trouble concentrating or remembering things

Notice lower mood, irritability or increased anxiety

Over time, using cannabis regularly for sleep can lead to relying on it to fall asleep, while still not getting the quality rest your body and brain need. If you’re waking up groggy or feeling foggy during the day, cannabis use—especially close to bedtime—could be part of the reason.

4. Be aware of laws and campus policies

While cannabis is legal in Colorado for adults 21 and older (and for some medical users 18+), it is still illegal under federal law. Because �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is a federally funded institution, cannabis is not allowed on campus in any form—including medical cannabis and prescriptions.

Other key reminders:

Being under the influence violates CU’s drug policy

Driving high can result in a DUI and increases the chance of an accident

Taking cannabis across state lines could result in a higher legal penalty

Use isn’t allowed in public spaces

Smoking or vaping breaks CU’s smoke‑free campus policy

Students who are in the U.S. on a visa should be especially cautious. Because cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, use or possession can carry more serious consequences for international students, including possible impacts on visa status, future travel or immigration opportunities.

Knowing the rules can help you avoid serious academic and legal consequences. Review CU’s Student Code of Conduct and campus drug policies.

5. Tolerance, dependence and withdrawal are possible

Using THC regularly can change how your body and brain respond.

Tolerance means needing more to feel the same effects. Signs can include using more often, using higher‑potency products or taking larger amounts than before. Taking a tolerance break (about 21 days) can help reset your baseline if you use most days.

Dependence can show up when cutting back or stopping leads to withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, sleep problems or strong cravings. If these symptoms show up when you pause or stop, it may be a sign that your body has become dependent.

It’s also important to look out for yourself and the people around you. Regular cannabis use has been linked to worsened mental health for some people, including increased anxiety, mood changes, psychosis and higher risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors—especially for those with existing mental health concerns.

Checking in with friends can make a real difference. Consider reaching out if you notice someone:

Withdrawing from friends or activities

Seeming more anxious, paranoid or disconnected from reality

Struggling more than usual with mood, stress or sleep

If you’re worried about someone’s safety, it’s okay to ask directly how they’re doing and help them connect with support. �鶹��Ѱ��offers support resources for students who need help for themselves or for a friend.

6. There are ways to reduce risk—and find support if you need it

If you or someone you know chooses to use cannabis, harm‑reduction strategies can lower risk (though they don’t make use risk‑free):

Start low and go slow, especially with edibles

Use less often to lower tolerance and potential dependence

Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol or other drugs

Use with people you trust, in places where you feel safe

Store products safely, away from pets and children

If someone experiences intense anxiety, chest pain, confusion, repeated vomiting or becomes unresponsive, call 911 and stay with the person until help arrives. CU’s Amnesty Policy and Colorado’s Good Samaritan Law can protect you from disciplinary action or prosecution if you call for help and stay with the person.

Support options:

Free substance use workshops: Students can reflect on their relationship with alcohol and other substances. Workshops are educational and not therapy or treatment.

Collegiate Recovery Community: Weekly support meetings, substance-free activities and connection for students considering, pursuing or in recovery from substances and other unwanted behaviors.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): Services related to substance use include assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family and referrals to recovery and other community resources.

Remember, making informed choices and seeking support when needed can help you stay safer as you navigate your experiences with cannabis.

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Find Support

How to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide

Know some of the warning signs of suicide

Start the conversation

Ask directly about suicide

If they say they’re thinking about suicide

What if you can’t reach them?

Check in again

Take care of yourself, too

Where to get help at �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder

If someone needs urgent or same-day mental health support

If a student needs help navigating a difficult situation

If you want to learn how to support others

Thinking about talking to a therapist about suicide?

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