Buff Family News

Move-out tips and reminders

Lynia Herrington — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 14:26:40 +0000

Move-out tips and reminders Lynia Herrington Tue, 04/01/2025 - 08:26

If your student plans to move out of their residence soon, this is a great time to prepare. Whether they live on or off campus, here are some tips and reminders to share with them as they wrap up the end of the year.

Transport items

If your student plans to visit home before the end of the semester, you can encourage them to bring items with them, so they have less to move at the end of the semester.

Your student can also set up shipping service through the UPS locations at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

Donate items

Your student may have items they no longer need or want as they prepare to move out. Donating these things means they will have less to move, and they can give the items a second life.

If your student lives on campus, they can participate in the Give and Go Donation Drive. Students can donate the following items:

Clothing and shoes

Usable home goods

Unopened non-perishable foods

Books

School supplies

Toiletries, hygiene products and cleaning supplies

Items like bedding, pillows and towels are not accepted. Broken items are also not accepted.

If your student lives on or off campus, there will be drop-off locations on the Hill at key times this summer where they can get rid of hard-to-recycle items like furniture, mattresses, electronics and more. There are also various locations in �鶹ӰԺ where your student can donate usable items in good condition.

Store items

It may feel easier to throw items out or donate them, but your student has another option. The UPS Store at CU �鶹ӰԺ offers summer storage for students living on and off campus.

The service is simple and affordable, and students can choose customized storage solutions. For the basic storage program, they can pick up a box at the on-campus UPS Store and return it with the items inside. They can also store larger and specialty items through this program.

Donate or store bikes

If your student no longer needs their bike, they can donate it at the Folsom and TLC bike stations. Bikes will be refurbished and sold at the annual fall Bike Sale.

The CU Bike Program can also store your student’s bike for $20 over the summer. Storage is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more about summer bike storage.

Bikes left on campus that appear abandoned will be flagged and removed starting in May.

Properly dispose of items

Sometimes your student may have items that can't be thrown away or donated, like electronics, cleaning products or fluorescent bulbs. Here are tips for how your student can handle these:

Get rid of expired or unwanted medications at the take-back box in the main floor lobby of the Parking Services and Police Department building.

Dispose of vape and other hazardous tobacco products at designated locations in the UMC and the Village Center.

Donate usable electronics to thrift stores. Recycle unusable electronics at Eco-Cycle’s Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials, Staples or Best Buy. In Colorado, it's illegal to throw electronics in a dumpster.

Learn how to dispose of hazardous waste—common household hazardous waste includes fluorescent bulbs, cleaning products, motor oil, antifreeze, paint and yard care products.

Visit the Environmental Center website to learn about disposing of hard-to-recycle items like cell phones, batteries and toner cartridges.

Your student can connect with the Environmental Center for more sustainability tips and resources on recycling.

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Spring break in �鶹ӰԺ

Anonymous — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:52:33 +0000

Spring break in �鶹ӰԺ Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/04/2025 - 07:52

While some students may take trips over spring break, many Buffs look forward to a low-key week off from classes. If your student is staying in the �鶹ӰԺ area and looking for things to do over spring break, here are some ideas.

Plan a staycation

Not every student will be traveling for spring break. If your Buff is staying in the �鶹ӰԺ area, suggest some of these activities:

Try a new restaurant—check out �鶹ӰԺ’s Bites on a Budget list.
Catch a show at the �鶹ӰԺ Theater or Fox Theatre.
Take a hike or snowshoe on one of �鶹ӰԺ’s many trails.
Visit a local museum, such as the �鶹ӰԺ Museum of Contemporary Art or Museum of �鶹ӰԺ.

Suggest a day trip

Colorado offers many beautiful destinations within driving distance or use of public transportation. Here are some ideas:

Go skiing—your student can catch a ride to and from Eldora Ski Resort.
Visit Denver using RTD public transit with their Buff OneCard. They can explore restaurants, museums, shops, and other attractions.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park. While many trails and activities are closed until early summer, there are still winter recreation activities to enjoy.

Start their summer job search

If your student is seeking a summer job or internship, encourage them to use this downtime to get a head start on their to-do list. This can help reduce stress and prepare them for the end of the semester. They can:

Create or update their profile on Handshake.
Update their resume.
Prepare for career fairs.
Search for job and internship opportunities.
Practice for interviews.

Making the most of spring break

Remind your student that their spring break doesn’t need to be extravagant to be enjoyable. Sometimes, simple activities like spending time with others or just resting can significantly enhance their well-being and give them the boost they need to finish the semester strong.

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From Vice Chancellor Mull: Making a difference

Emily Sampl — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:11:28 +0000

From Vice Chancellor Mull: Making a difference Emily Sampl Wed, 02/26/2025 - 09:11

Hi Buff families,

As warmer weather returns and flowers will soon start to bloom, spring in �鶹ӰԺ brings with it a sense of renewal and energy. It is a season of transformation, where CU �鶹ӰԺ comes alive with anticipation and enthusiasm. This is the time of year when our campus buzzes with activities and events that highlight the spirit of giving and the power of community.

March is Student Philanthropy Month at CU �鶹ӰԺ, a time to celebrate and give back. Philanthropy is not just about monetary donations—it is about how we can all contribute in small ways to make a big difference. Whether it is giving our time, talents or treasure, every little bit counts. These small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect that inspires positive change for years to come.

This Student Philanthropy Month, I encourage our students to think about how they can give back. Their involvement can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others and support the success of fellow Buffs.

On March 6, CU �鶹ӰԺ will host its third Buffs All In, a day of giving that fosters a sense of community and collective action. I invite you to join my challenge with a gift of any amount toward student affairs funds. When 100 students and families join me in giving to student affairs funds, we unlock a $500 gift that will increase to $1,500 when these funds receive 250 donations. This gift will go toward the Student Affairs Discretionary fund, which supports essential student services and gives us the opportunity to innovate to meet the needs of students today.

If your student is looking for other ideas to start:

Donating time: Even with a busy schedule, your student can make a difference. Whether your Buff has a couple of hours, an afternoon or a day, volunteering is a great way to support their local community. There are plenty of opportunities on campus, like helping with Ralphie’s Green Stampede or the Basic Needs Center. Encourage them to connect with the Volunteer Resource Center to learn more.

Sharing talents: Your student's unique skills and strengths can greatly benefit others. For example, if your Buff loves music and live entertainment, they could consider joining Program Council’s Street Team. Ask your student to consider their strengths and how they might apply these abilities to assist others.

Getting involved

Every day, I see students passionately involved on campus, participating in multiple organizations, programs and events. Your Buff can join the Herd Leadership Council at Farrand Field on Thursday, March 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for games, giveaways, food and an opportunity to learn more about how to get involved.

This March, I look forward to our community embracing the spirit of philanthropy and the power of collective effort. By supporting each other and contributing in meaningful ways, we can create a lasting impact. Whether through time, talent or resources, every act counts and brings us closer to a brighter, more supportive environment for all. Thank you for being an integral part of the Buff family and for your unwavering dedication to making a difference.

Warmly,

Dr. D'Andra Mull
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

This is the time of year when our campus buzzes with activities and events that highlight the spirit of giving back. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. D'Andra Mull shares more about Student Philanthropy Month and how Buffs can get involved.

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5 ways your student can get involved this spring

Emily Sampl — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:37:30 +0000

5 ways your student can get involved this spring Emily Sampl Thu, 01/30/2025 - 15:37

Participating in campus activities is a great way for students to meet new people and make friends. It can also help them explore hobbies, stay active and discover career paths. Here are some ways your student can get involved this spring.

1. Join a student organization or program

Your Buff can find student organizations that match their interests on BuffConnect. Here are a few other options they could consider:

Fraternity and Sorority Life: Students can make lifelong friendships, gain leadership skills and give back to their community.
Intramural sports: Students can join a team or register as a free agent.
Sustainable Buffs Community: Students can get involved with sustainability and climate action at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

2. Attend student events

Encourage your student to explore various events, workshops, and opportunities to meet others, including:

3. Take advantage of leadership opportunities

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

4. Volunteer

Volunteering is another great way for students to meet others on campus and in the �鶹ӰԺ community. Encourage your student to connect with the Volunteer Resource Center to find opportunities to fit their schedule. They could also check out CU in the Community for one-time service events or search CUServes for options within �鶹ӰԺ.

5. Work on campus

In addition to earning money, working on campus is a convenient way for Buffs to meet new people and gain work experience. One of the major perks of working at an on-campus job is flexibility. Most on-campus jobs and paid research studies offer flexible scheduling to fit with your student’s classes and other commitments. They can explore on-campus job opportunities on Handshake.

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5 ways to support your student if they’re feeling lonely

Emily Sampl — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:16:45 +0000

5 ways to support your student if they’re feeling lonely Emily Sampl Thu, 01/30/2025 - 15:16

Social connection is an important part of college and adulthood. However, many students may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation during their time at CU. As parents and family members, you can play a key role in helping them navigate these feelings and find ways to gain a sense of belonging both on campus and at home.

Here are a few ways you can support your student if they’re feeling lonely.

1. Validate their feelings

Let your student know that making friends in adulthood may feel more difficult than it was when they were younger, and that’s okay. Loneliness is a common experience among many college students and young adults, especially in our digital age.

If your student shares that they are going through a difficult time, feeling homesick or experiencing loneliness, validate their feelings and allow them to talk openly with you about what they’re going through. Help them acknowledge that feeling lonely doesn’t mean they’re doing something wrong or that there is something wrong with them. It can also be helpful to remind them that building meaningful friendships takes time, and feelings of loneliness are temporary, even if they don’t feel that way in the moment.

2. Listen without rushing to solve

If your student shares their feelings or experiences, resist the urge to immediately jump in and offer solutions to their problems. Instead, create a safe space for them to freely express their emotions without judgment. Simple responses like, “That sounds really hard” or “I can tell how difficult this is for you” are often more comforting than unsolicited advice.

3. Stay meaningfully connected

Maintain regular contact with your student while allowing them to guide the frequency and duration of your chats. Be sure to let them know that they are not a burden, and you enjoy hearing from them.

Keep in mind that talking over the phone or through video chat is often more helpful and comforting than texting or messaging. Sometimes even a quick call can make a significant difference in your student’s day. If your student feels awkward or uncomfortable asking for help directly, you can come up with a code phrase or image to indicate when they’re having a bad day or may need some additional support. For instance, your student may send you a text that says, “Do you have 10 minutes?” or “Today has been tough” to let you know they need a sense of connection.

4. Encourage small steps toward connection

If your student feels lost or isn’t sure how to make friends, you may suggest manageable ways to meet people on campus, such as joining a club, attending an event, sitting next to someone in class or exploring volunteering opportunities through the Volunteer Resource Center.

It can be helpful to frame these activities as experiments rather than obligations. This may relieve some of the pressure your student feels and help them figure out what approaches work best for them. Let them know that it’s okay if it feels uncomfortable approaching people in these ways. Learning to tolerate distress and express vulnerability are important tools to develop when forming any relationships.

Not sure where to refer your student? Here are some options you can share:

Student events: Each semester, Student Affairs and Health & Wellness Services host hundreds of events, workshops and other opportunities to get involved. Encourage your student to check out upcoming opportunities to meet other Buffs and have fun on campus.
Transfer Buffs: If your student transferred to CU, they can connect with resources, events and opportunities to build community with fellow transfer students on campus.
Beyond Campus Buffs: Does your student commute to CU or live off campus? Encourage them to get involved with the Beyond Campus Buffs Program to meet other students, access the Commuter Lounge and more.
Center for Student Involvement: Encourage your student to get involved through student organizations, leadership and volunteer opportunities, events and more.
First-Generation Students Program: Is your student the first person in your family to attend college? They can connect with a community of first-gen students to socialize, learn about campus resources, find support and more.
Student organizations: No matter what your student is into, there’s probably a student organization that fits their interests. Organizations can be a great way to get involved, find support and make lifelong friends.
Residence hall events: Residence halls on campus host events to help students meet their hallmates. Encourage your student to talk with your RA to learn about upcoming events.
Campus jobs: Students can build their resume, learn valuable leadership skills and meet new people by applying for a job on campus!
Recreation Services: The Rec Centers on campus are a great way to meet people, practice hobbies, stay active and try new things. They offer something for everyone from outdoor trips and fitness classes to team sports and free events.
Pride Office: The Pride Office supports LGBTQ+ students through community events, social spaces, resources and more.

5. Support their self-care

Encourage your student to continue taking care of themselves. This can include things like maintaining their routines, getting enough sleep, staying active and moving their bodies or finding comfort in familiar spaces or activities. These habits can offer structure, comfort and stability, which can be particularly helpful when going through stressful periods.

If your student needs help creating a routine, finding connections on campus or connecting with resources, they can make a free appointment with a peer wellness coach. These students are trained to support their fellow Buffs through a variety of situations, and they are aware of the challenges and opportunities that exist on campus.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers a robust group therapy program. Group therapy can be beneficial for students who are looking to build community, connect with students who hold similar identities and/or work on those skills needed to form relationships. If your student needs more support with their mental health, CAPS also offers individual mental health and psychiatric services to address concerns related to academics, anxiety, depression, relationships, substance use and more. They also provide information and support for family members and loved ones.

Many students may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation during their time at CU. Here are a few ways you can support your student if they’re feeling lonely.

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4 tips for Transfer Buffs

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 19:55:46 +0000

4 tips for Transfer Buffs Valerie Padilla Wed, 01/15/2025 - 12:55

As a Transfer Buff, your student belongs to CU �鶹ӰԺ's Transfer Student Community, which offers events, resources and support for a smooth transition. Here are tips to help your student make the most of their first semester here.

1. Attend transfer student events

Each semester features events for transfer students to meet new people and get involved. Encourage your student to check out other student events, too! They can sign up for the Transfer Buffs newsletter for monthly updates.

2. Meet with a transfer peer mentor

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

3. Get involved on campus

There are many ways for transfer students to get involved on campus and meet others. They could:

Join student organizations through BuffConnect or start their own.

Explore volunteer opportunities on CUServes.

Find an on-campus job or join community programs through the Center for Inclusion and Social Change, the Sustainable Buffs Community and Rec Center.

To learn about opportunities, encourage your student to follow @CU�鶹ӰԺLife on Instagram, Facebook and X, and download the CU �鶹ӰԺ Life app.

4. Find support

Numerous resources are available to help your Transfer Buff with their overall well-being. Your student can reach out to the Transfer Student Community for assistance.

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Winter Break: Tips for the transition home

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:36:29 +0000

Winter Break: Tips for the transition home Valerie Padilla Wed, 12/04/2024 - 15:36

Break can be a great time to catch up and reconnect with your student. It can also be an adjustment (for everyone).

Here are some tips and things to keep in mind when your student comes to visit.

1. Get to know them again

While it may not feel like your student has been away for that long, things can change as they navigate college, explore their identities and form new relationships. That’s why it’s important to take some time to get to know your student again, even if it feels like things haven’t changed.

Ask open-ended questions about their classes, major, what they’ve been up to, what their friends are like and how they’re doing overall. Keep in mind that some students may be struggling more than others. Catching up and finding out more about their experiences can help you determine whether or not your student could benefit from additional support at home or on campus.

2. Talk about expectations at home

Your student has likely gotten used to living independently and operating on their own schedule. Because of this, your student may not know what is expected of them when they return home over break. Share your expectations with them in advance, so they aren’t caught off guard. Consider things like curfews, chores, commitments and other factors.

It’s also a good idea to talk with your students about their own plans. They may have different ideas of how they’d like to spend their break, and this can be a good time to share awareness and come to a compromise if necessary. For instance, you may need to talk about how much time you think your student may spend with you, their friends or on their own. Remember that it’s okay if your student wants some time to themselves—they may need some time to decompress from a busy semester.

3. Discuss any changes

Has a sibling moved into your student’s room? Is there a new pet in the family? Are there any changes that may take your student by surprise? Talk through any changes that may have happened while your student was away. This can help them prepare for the adjustment and reduce potential stress when they arrive.

4. Prepare for important conversations

You or your student may need to engage in an important conversation, whether it’s related to school, employment, emotional difficulties or other concerns.

Here are some things you can do to have more effective conversations around potentially tough issues:

Allow your student to share their experience and point of view without interruption. Try to listen openly without judgment.

Think about the intent and the impact of your message—sometimes what you mean to say isn’t always what the other person hears. It’s important to ask for clarification throughout the conversation to make sure everyone is on the same page.

If an agreement isn’t possible, allow for multiple truths. Try to see things from your student’s perspective and express your side using your perspective.

If you’re concerned about alcohol or substance use, check out these resources for families.

Tackling tough conversations can feel uncomfortable, and you may not always know where to start. Check out additional tips for having tough conversations, navigating disagreements and moving forward.

5. Schedule check-ups

If possible, encourage your student to schedule doctor and dentist appointments while they're home over break. Now is also a great time to make sure your student has gotten a flu or COVID shot (they’re free on campus or locally with most insurance plans).

Students with the CU Gold Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) can find local providers through Anthem or use their insurance for telehealth visits with Medical Services on campus.

6. Prepare for winter

Colorado winters can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected. Break is a great time to check in with your student to see if they are ready for winter before returning for the spring semester. Students should have plenty of warm clothing layers, a winter coat, gloves, a hat and scarf, winter boots that are waterproof and extra blankets. If your student drives, make sure they are equipped with snow tires or chains.

Support resources

If your student needs additional support while they’re at home, there are resources available to help.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) If you are concerned about your student’s mental health, CAPS provides a variety of mental health services for all students. They can also help family members who are concerned. If you believe your student is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs urgent, same-day support, please call 303-492-2277.	AcademicLiveCare AcademicLiveCare is a free telehealth platform that allows students to attend free counseling, psychiatry, medical and nutrition appointments from anywhere, regardless of their insurance plan.	Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC) If you think your student may be struggling with substance use or other harmful behaviors, the CUCRC can help. They offer free weekly support meetings, coaching and other resources to support students in recovery or seeking recovery. Learn more about what it means to be in recovery.	Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students who have experienced and/or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event. They are familiar with a wide range of topics, including sexual assault and harassment, discrimination, microaggressions, identity-based trauma, abuse, intimate partner abuse, stalking, crime and more.
Medical Services Medical Services provides a variety of services on campus, including primary care, sexual and reproductive health, vaccinations, physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, behavioral health and more. Students can also visit their full-service pharmacy to pick up or transfer prescriptions.	Red Folder Family members may notice that their students are struggling or need additional support during their time at CU �鶹ӰԺ. Red Folder is designed to help you recognize signs of distress, talk with students about your concern and help them connect with support resources on campus.	When to seek mental health support Knowing how (and when) to seek out mental health support is important, especially if you’re concerned about your student. Here are some guidelines you can use to determine if your student may need emergency, urgent or general support for mental health concerns.	WellTrack WellTrack is a free app with online tools and courses to help students identify, understand and address issues like stress, resiliency, anxiety and/or depression. WellTrack is a self-guided and interactive way for your student to manage their mental well-being.

Check out tips and things to keep in mind when your student comes to visit.

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From Vice Chancellor Mull: Tips for the end of the semester

Valerie Padilla — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:22:08 +0000

From Vice Chancellor Mull: Tips for the end of the semester Valerie Padilla Mon, 11/18/2024 - 09:22

Hi Buff families,

It is hard to believe we are almost at the end of the fall semester! With students on break this week and the season slowly transitioning to winter, this is a great time for Buffs to center themselves before returning for the last few weeks of classes.

Time with family and loved ones can help students recharge and strengthen their connection to community. I hope you get the chance to talk or be with your student this week and check in on how they are doing. After fall break, know that the Division of Student Affairs is here to provide support and offer opportunities for students to gather with peers and find community.

To prepare for the end of the semester, your student can visit colorado.edu/finals to find everything they need, including the final exams schedule, student events and campus resources. Please encourage your student to stop by Late Night Breakfast in the University Memorial Center (UMC) on Dec. 11. They can get ready for final exams with a free, nourishing meal provided by Student Affairs staff. I will be at the event to wish our Buffs good luck on finals, and I hope to see your student there! There will be additional events happening around finals to help students take breaks, stay connected and finish strong.

Over the next few weeks, I encourage you to stay in touch with your student. You can support them by listening and helping them come up with a strategy to better enable their success. Additionally, help your student reflect on and celebrate their achievements. Whether they are finishing their first or final year at CU �鶹ӰԺ, your Buff has worked incredibly hard and deserves a moment of recognition. Encourage them to be proud of their accomplishments and to treat themselves!

Take care, Buff families. I wish your Buff good luck on finals and a wonderful winter season.

Warmly,
Dr. D'Andra Mull
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

With final exams coming up soon, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs D’Andra Mull has advice for families to help students finish strong.

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6 tips for talking to students about suicide

Anonymous — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 16:54:59 +0000

6 tips for talking to students about suicide Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 11/15/2024 - 09:54

The end of the semester can be a difficult time for students. Pressure to perform well, meet expectations or reach certain milestones can all negatively impact mental health.

College students are also at increased risk for suicide, especially during high-stress times of the year. Talking about suicide, even if the conversation is brief, can encourage students who are at risk to seek support.

Here are some things you can do if you are concerned that your student or someone you know may be struggling or thinking about suicide.

1. Know the warning signs

While suicides may take us by surprise or feel unexpected, there are verbal and behavioral warning signs that often precede suicidal behaviors. Knowing potential warning signs and ways to intervene can dramatically reduce the risks of suicidal behaviors.

Here are some signs to watch out for:

Feelings of hopelessness

Increased alcohol or drug use

Sudden changes in academic performance (e.g., cutting class, missing assignments, etc.)

Withdrawing from friends, family or social groups

Being unable to sleep or sleeping all the time, insomnia

Expressing feelings that life is meaningless or there is no reason to live

Feeling desperate or trapped, like there is no way out

Acting recklessly or engaging in risky behaviors

Engaging in violent or self-destructive behaviors

Noticeable decline or worsening of mental health conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc.)

Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide

Giving away possessions

Neglecting their appearance or hygiene

If you notice these warning signs, there are ways you can support your student and help them connect with support services.

2. Share your concerns

If you’re concerned about your student, gently share what you’ve noticed and your desire to help. It can be helpful to provide concrete examples of behaviors that you’ve noticed. For instance, you may say “I’ve noticed you seem unhappy lately” or “I’ve noticed that you haven’t been spending as much time with your friends as you used to.” Acknowledging their distress can help open the door for conversation.

3. Ask the question

Don’t be afraid to ask your student directly about suicide or self-harm. Contrary to what we may think, talking about suicide directly isn’t going to plant the idea in their head. If they have been thinking about suicide or self-harm, asking them about it can be a relief and an opportunity for them to talk about it more openly.

When you ask, express your care by saying something like “I’m asking because I care. Are you thinking about suicide?” If they aren’t, they’ll let you know. Asking students, even if they aren’t thinking about suicide lets them know that it’s okay to talk about it in the future if things change. If they are thinking about suicide, it might be time to think about referring them for help or coming out to support them.

4. Listen

Listen to your student without judgment and resist the urge to give them advice. It’s important to understand your student’s pain and what they’re experiencing. Keep in mind that suicidal behaviors are often short-term and specific to certain situations. In many cases, suicide ideation is an attempt to control or manage significant pain. When the pain subsides, suicidal ideation often dissipates with it. However, understanding the source of your student’s pain (e.g., academic pressures, mental health concerns, etc.) can help better support them and connect them with resources.

5. Manage your emotions

Talking openly about suicide can be challenging, especially if a student says they have or are considering it. It’s important to notice your own emotional response and seek support if needed. If students pick up on our own distress or anxiety when discussing the topic of suicide, they may feel like we are not able to handle what they have to tell us and may shut us out. Instead, try to reiterate your care and concern. Let them know that you are there for them and you want them to be okay.

6. Instill hope

Let your student know that there are resources available to help them and things can get better. Here are some resources that are available to help students who are struggling with mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide.

Emergency services (911)

If your student or someone you know is threatening to eminently kill or harm themselves, call 911 and request emergency mental health support.

Crisis services
If your student is in need of urgent or same-day support, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides crisis support 24/7. Call 303-492-2277 to connect with a triage counselor.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to talk confidentially with a trained crisis support worker. They are available 24/7 and calls are answered locally at 988.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free and confidential support, consultation, advocacy and short-term trauma counseling for those who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or life-disrupting event. They also offer support for those who are helping a friend, partner or family member through a traumatic experience.

AcademicLiveCare
If your student is not currently suicidal but may benefit from talking with a therapist sooner rather than later, they can schedule an appointment through AcademicLiveCare (ALC). This free telehealth platform allows students to meet virtually with mental health and medical providers from anywhere.

Let’s Talk
If your student is not currently suicidal but may be struggling, Let’s Talk is a great way to get connected with support services. They can meet one-on-one with a counselor for a confidential consultation that can help them gain insight and connect with additional resources on campus.

Workshops
If your student is not currently suicidal but may be struggling, workshops are a great way for students to learn coping skills related to anxiety, stress and other painful emotions. Workshops are available throughout the week and are covered by the student mental health fee.

Don’t Ignore It
Learn about options for confidential reporting, referrals and support. If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore it.

Additional resources

Red Folder
Red Folder is designed to help you recognize possible signs of distress, talk to your student about your concerns and help them connect with support resources on campus.

Student trainings
Students are encouraged to attend mental health training sessions to learn how to better support their fellow Buffs. Trainings are available for Mental Health First Aid, recovery, student leadership and more.

Signs of depression
Mental health struggles can take a toll on relationships, academics, work performance and quality of life. Here are six signs of depression you shouldn’t ignore and where to find support on campus.

When to seek mental health support
Knowing when and how to seek out mental health support is important, whether your student needs support or wants to help a friend. Here are some guidelines to help determine if your student should seek emergency, urgent or general support for their mental health concerns.

The end of the semester can be a difficult time for students. Here are some things you can do if you are concerned that your student or if you think they may be at risk of suicide.

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Free tools and tips to help your student decide on a major

Valerie Padilla — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 14:57:25 +0000

Free tools and tips to help your student decide on a major Valerie Padilla Mon, 11/04/2024 - 07:57

Is your student thinking of changing their major, or trying to narrow down their options and decide on one?

Choosing a major can often feel like an overwhelming decision. There are many options and figuring out what aligns with your student’s interests, values and skills takes time. Remember, it’s completely normal for students to feel uncertain about their major or change their mind later. Here are tips and free resources to help guide your student in their search for a major or academic program.

Expanding self-awareness

Encourage your student to think about their current classes at CU �鶹ӰԺ as well as high school classes to determine the subject areas they enjoy most and least. They could consider these questions:

What subjects interest them the most? For example, do they enjoy solving math problems or learning about history?

What are they good at academically? For example, are they skilled at analyzing data, conducting science experiments or writing essays?

What causes or ideas excite them? For example, are they passionate about social justice, environmental advocacy or technology?

What are the subjects they enjoy discussing with friends or family?

What classes or activities feel too hard or boring?

By exploring the study areas and activities your student loves or dislikes, they can rule out certain majors and focus on those that fit their preferences.

Career Values Card Sort is a simple self-reflection tool that helps clarify your student’s values and highlights what’s most important to them.

SparkPath Challenge Cards can help your student identify the problem(s) they’re motivated to solve.

Exploring majors and careers

Your student’s choice of major doesn’t have to dictate their future career—some majors align closely with specific paths, while others provide broader skills that are applicable across various fields.

It can be helpful to see how different majors relate to certain careers. These tools can help your student explore based on their goals and abilities:

What Can I Do with This Major?: This website will guide your student through 96 of the most common majors and typical career areas for each.

Majors Card Sort: This is a free online tool that can help your student identify the top CU �鶹ӰԺ majors that align with their goals.

Programs from a Different Lens: This webpage allows students to explore more programs that have the same key features as the majors that interest them. They can find information on course topics, learning outcomes and how classes are taught.

I want to ...: Students can use this website from the Program in Exploratory Studies to learn more about degree paths that will help them achieve their specified career goals.

Informational interviews: Encourage your student to schedule informational interviews with professionals in their fields of interest. They can ask about the professional’s academic journey to learn how it influenced them professionally. Your student can also connect with other Buffs in the majors they’re considering as well to understand what their experience has been like.

Learning and researching

Once your student homes in on a few study areas, they should research those majors to determine whether they are a good fit using these available tools:

Degree audits: This tool allows your student to find out the required courses and credit hours needed to graduate. Department websites and the university catalog can provide additional information.

Academic advisors: If your student is not in a rush to declare, they could take a class or two in a major they are interested in and consult with an advisor from that area of study for course recommendations. Your student can also ask questions about the major to determine if it matches their interests and goals.

Ralphie’s Advising Help Lab: While this doesn’t replace appointments, Ralphie’s Advising Help Lab is a supplemental resource that allows your student to access general advising or enrollment help quickly. They can get assistance with dropping courses, switching majors and answering other advising questions.

Handshake: Pursuing an on-campus job is a great way for students to discover new passions while gaining professional experience. Your student can use Handshake to search for available student positions.

BuffConnect: Your student can discover and join student organizations to explore new interests.

Volunteer opportunities: Your student can volunteer locally to find new areas of interest and passion.

Staying positive

Choosing a major is a journey, not a race. If your student is ready to decide, that’s great. If not, that’s perfectly fine. Encourage them to keep a positive outlook, try a few of these tips, have fun exploring and meet with a member of the Career Services team to identify next steps together. For more information, check out Find a Major from Career Services.

Is your student thinking of changing their major, or trying to narrow down their options and decide on one? Here are tips and free resources to help guide your student in their search for a major or academic program.

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