Buff Family News

How to talk to students about substance use

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 17:21:59 +0000

How to talk to students about substance use Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 08/21/2025 - 11:21

College students may be exposed to new situations that they’re unsure how to navigate, including party culture. Whether or not your student chooses to use alcohol or other drugs, talking with them about how substance use affects their goals and how they can keep themselves and their friends safer can help support their well-being and success.

Here are some tips to help you start the conversation.

1. Start early and continue to stay involved

Talking openly with your student about alcohol and other drugs can help them feel more prepared to handle a range of situations. Starting these conversations early and continuing them over time gives your student the tools and confidence to make safer, more informed choices.

College students in particular are at higher risk for harms associated with alcohol and other drugs. Your continued involvement can be a protective measure for your student against these harms. As part of the conversation, be sure to ask your student about the activities they’re getting involved in, the relationships they’re forming with roommates and friends and what their overall experience has been like.

It could be helpful to use the continuum of substance use as a framework. The continuum helps visualize substance use as a spectrum rather than a binary (use vs. don't use). It acknowledges that people may move between stages over time and that each stage presents different risks and opportunities for reflection.

Substance-free: No current use; may have never used or rarely used.

Experimental: Trying substances without knowing how they affect you.

Regular use: Using substances with some understanding of their effects.

High-risk use: Experiencing negative consequences due to use.

Living in recovery: Actively moderating, reducing harm or practicing sobriety.

2. Encourage honest dialogue

If you’re starting this conversation for the first time, keep in mind that your student may be hesitant to open up. They might worry about getting in trouble or feel like they’ve already heard everything about alcohol and drugs. Approach the topic with patience and continue the discussion over time—your ongoing conversations can become more meaningful and effective as trust grows.

Listening actively and without judgment is essential whenever you talk with your student, especially about substance use. Encourage them to share their thoughts honestly, listen attentively, and affirm their strengths and values. Avoid arguing or debating points—instead, focus on understanding their perspective. This supportive approach can help ease any initial discomfort your student may feel and foster a more genuine dialogue.

3. Familiarize yourself with policies, laws and resources

There are a lot of policies and laws regarding alcohol and other drugs that can be helpful for students and families to understand.

Drinking age: The state of Colorado and CU prohibit drinking alcohol for students under 21. If your student is of age living in a residence hall, they may only possess and consume alcohol within their assigned space with the door closed. It is also against the law for someone over 21 to provide alcohol to people who are under 21.

Amnesty Policy: To encourage students to help one another in the event of an alcohol- or drug-related emergency, CU has an Amnesty Policy. This means neither the person who calls for help nor the person who needs help will be subject to formal disciplinary sanctions from the university.

911 Good Samaritan Law: Under Colorado’s 911 Good Samaritan Law, a person is immune from criminal prosecution for an offense when they report, in good faith, an emergency drug or alcohol overdose to a law enforcement officer, the 911 system or a medical provider. This same immunity applies to persons who remain at the scene of the event until a law enforcement officer, or an emergency medical responder arrives. The immunity described above also extends to the person who suffered the emergency drug or alcohol overdose event.

Smoking policy: CU is also a smoke- and tobacco-free campus. This policy applies to all vape products, marijuana and cigarettes.

Workshops: CU ��ý�� provides a variety of resources to help students. Health Promotion offers free substance use workshops that allow students to discuss substance use with a peer or professional staff member. There are also free, anonymous online feedback tools related to alcohol, cannabis and/or nicotine.

Collegiate Recovery Community: The Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC) provides a space for students who are in recovery or seeking recovery from substances to find community, attend meetings and attend substance-free events.

4. Discuss how drinking affects the body

There is a lot of misinformation about how alcohol can impact the body. You can support your student by providing accurate information about the following effects from alcohol:

Alcohol is absorbed from the stomach into the bloodstream.

At lower blood alcohol concentrations, alcohol can lead students to have a sense of relaxation and well-being in addition to impairments to their thoughts, judgment and coordination.

At higher concentrations, it can lead to feelings of depression, mood swings, unconsciousness and loss of control over basic bodily functions that can be fatal.

Talk with your student to see how familiar they are with this process and help provide additional information if needed.

5. Discuss what to do in an emergency

Whether your student chooses to drink or not, there is a possibility that they will be in a situation where they need to support another student in an emergency. At CU ��ý��, we want every student to have the ability to help one another. Here are some warning signs and skills for responding in an emergency situation you can discuss with your student.

Signs that indicate an overdose emergency:

Passed out or unresponsive

Slow or no breathing

Vomiting while passed out

Involuntary peeing or pooping

Pale/bluish or cool/clammy skin

Pinpoint (small) pupils

Making gurgling, wheezing or snoring sounds

How to respond:

Turn the person on their side and put them in the recovery position.

Immediately call 911 and wait for help to arrive.

Make sure the person is in a safe area to avoid injury or further harm.

Administer naloxone if available (naloxone will not harm someone, even if they are not overdosing).

Never leave a severely intoxicated person alone or with someone who is not a trusted friend.

6. Share your values and experiences

Continue to talk with your student about your family’s values related to alcohol and other drugs. This can include discussions about how substance use may affect their academic success and overall college experience.

When talking about substances and their impacts, your student may ask questions about what it was like when you were in college. Be honest with them about your experience but try to avoid stories that normalize or idolize substance use.

7. Correct misconceptions

Long before they step foot on campus, students may have assumptions or expectations around what the ‘college experience’ looks like. Most of these messages, whether from friends, movies or social media, normalize drinking and partying in college.

However, according to a 2023 National College Health Assessment survey of CU ��ý�� students, more than 66% of students reported either not using alcohol or not binge drinking within the past two weeks. Helping your student realize that most students aren’t drinking or using marijuana on a regular basis may help them feel more comfortable about making the decision not to drink. It can also help them realize that there isn’t a standard ‘college experience’ they need to live up to.

8. Understand why students use substances

There are many reasons that factor into why students do or do not use alcohol or other drugs. Talking through potential motivations can help guide your conversations, and it allows you to reinforce your student’s decisions to not use substances or use them in a safer way. It’s also important to understand the misconceptions your student may have about substance use. This can also be a good time to brainstorm other ways your student can have the experiences they want.

Motivations for using

Enhance social interactions

Facilitate interactions with a potential romantic or sexual partner

Reduce stress

Fit in

Improve mood

Address boredom

Peer pressure

Experimentation or curiosity

Alter perception

Motivations for not using

Desire to avoid harm to body/brain

Lack of interest

Avoid unwanted experiences

Plan to drive

Have other things to do

Sleep problems

Productivity or motivation issues

Memory problem

Don’t want to spend money

Don’t want to lose control

Legal or conduct penalties, avoid fines

Academic impacts

Avoid negatively effecting others or causing harm

Physical injury

It’s important to remember that students may have different reasons for using substances, and it may depend on the substance itself. Keep in mind that substances that students use today may be different from the ones you remember from your experiences. For instance, cannabis products today are much stronger and more varied than they were in the past. In addition to the traditional marijuana flower, there are now many other forms like concentrates, edibles and oils that are widely available and often much more potent. This increase in strength and variety can lead to more intense and sometimes unexpected effects, especially for young people who may not be familiar with these newer products.

If your student is interested in conversations about their substance use with a fellow Buff who’s a trained facilitator, encourage them to check out the Buffs Discuss Substance Use workshop.

We hope you’ll find these tips helpful as they are supported by expert research. You can find more information by checking out a free copy of Dr. Rob Turrisi’s Parent Handbook for Talking with College Students About Alcohol. This resource has been proven to help reduce alcohol-related harms in college students through parental and family conversations.

Whether or not your student chooses to use alcohol or other drugs, talking with them about how substance use impacts their goals and how they can keep themselves and their friends safer can help support their well-being and success. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation.

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3 reasons why your student should work on campus

Anonymous — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:21:10 +0000

3 reasons why your student should work on campus Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/29/2025 - 14:21

Working on campus offers many benefits for students. Some jobs allow students to build technical skills and are a great way to explore potential careers. Others may offer some downtime and let students study around their job duties.

If your student is looking for a part-time job, here are a few reasons why they should consider working on campus this year.

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

One of the best perks of an on-campus job is flexibility. Most student jobs offer flexible scheduling around classes and other commitments, as well as during busy times of the semester (like finals). Many students work between 10 and 15 hours weekly, with 25 hours per week maximum. ��ý�� stay the priority for students who work on campus.

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

The other Buffs that your student might work with can quickly become their 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 would allow your student to spend time with fellow Buffs and get to know them.

On-campus jobs also offer students the chance to work more closely with faculty and staff. As supervisors, faculty and staff can become mentors and potentially lead to future internships or research opportunities. Additionally, they can provide letters of recommendation or serve as professional references later.

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Whatever department your student works in, their student job can help them build their 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 your student technical skills. These roles include work in graphic design, event planning, social media, data analytics and research.

Resources

Is your student ready to apply? They can use Handshake to search for on-campus student employment, including hourly and work-study positions. Each CU ��ý�� student already has a Handshake account, regardless of their major or year.

On-Campus Student Job Fair
Aug. 26 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | UMC Ballroom

Encourage your student to stop by this event on Aug. 26. They can meet with campus employers who are looking to hire students and explore job opportunities.

Career Services
Career Services is dedicated to helping students gain clarity about their future through accessible and inclusive guidance. No matter where your student is at in their journey, Career Services has the support and resources to help.

Work in Student Life
More than 2,000 students work in the Division of Student Life, with job roles ranging from peer mentoring to event planning to social media content creation and university operations. Student employees directly contribute to the success of our campus community.

If your student is looking for a part-time job, here are a few reasons why they should consider working on campus this year.

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Tips for living with roommates

Anonymous — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Tips for living with roommates Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/29/2025 - 00:00

Living with roommates, whether your student is in the residence halls or off campus, can be a great experience. It may also bring new challenges and responsibilities. This might be the first time your student will share a room or live with someone they’ve never met.

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 your student grow and even strengthen their relationship with their roommate. Here are some tips to share with your student to help them create a positive living environment and navigate conflict.

1. Communicate

Encourage your student to get to know their roommate the first few weeks of the semester. They can seek out things they have in common and allow space for differences. Even if your student already knows their roommate well, they should still take time to talk about the upcoming semester and routines. Communication is key to understanding each other’s habits, schedules and preferences.

2. Set ground rules together

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

Creating a roommate agreement is an easy way for your student to discuss and agree on expectations with their roommate. If your Buff lives on campus, their resident advisor (RA) will work with them during their first week on campus to set one up. If your student lives off campus, they can use this free roommate agreement template to get started.

3. Compromise

During your student’s discussion with their roommate, there might be preferences that could cause conflict or topics that they don't initially agree on. Encourage your student to be open to compromise. For example, if they like to study on Friday afternoons and their roommate likes to invite friends over at the end of the week, could your student study at the library instead of asking for quiet hours during that time? Finding areas of compromise and respecting each other’s preferences can help your student and their roommate both feel more comfortable in their living environment.

4. Respect each other’s space and belongings

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

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

5. Address issues quickly and in person

It’s best to address roommate issues quickly before they fester. Encourage your student to discuss any important topics or reminders with their roommate in person, if possible. Bringing up issues through texting, social media or sticky notes might lead to miscommunication or increased frustrations. A simple reminder to “take out the trash” could become something more than we intended.

Here are a few other tips to share with your student when it comes to addressing issues:

Your student should give themselves time to think through how they can express their needs before approaching their roommate.
Using “I” statements to describe how the situation makes them feel is a helpful way to start. For example, “I feel frustrated when guests eat my snacks because it’s hard for me to make it to the grocery store.”
Respect goes both ways: they should listen for understanding and ask follow-up questions during the conversation.

If your student is nervous about talking with their roommate, suggest that they connect with their RA or Conflict Resolution to help mediate the conversation. Remind them that conflict can be a good thing. Even though it may seem daunting, talking it through can lead to a healthier relationship with their roommate.

6. Find support with campus resources

Students have access to a variety of resources to help resolve roommate conflict.

Buffs living on campus can reach out to their resident advisors (RA) for support. RAs are a great resource to help mediate conversations and find common ground. Encourage your student to talk with their roommate beforehand and schedule a time with their RA to discuss potential or unresolved issues.

All students can visit Conflict Resolution, whether they live on or off campus. This office can help your student navigate conflicts between roommates, significant others, professors, classmates or others. They also offer free workshops, mediation and coaching sessions to help students improve conflict management and resolution skills.

If your student is ever concerned about their roommate, they can reach out to Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support or Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution for guidance.

Living with roommates, whether your student is in the residence halls or off campus, can be a great experience. It may also bring new challenges and responsibilities. Here are some tips to share with your student to help them create a positive living environment and navigate conflict.

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Moving tips to share with your student

Anonymous — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Moving tips to share with your student Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 06/24/2025 - 00:00

Is your student moving into a new home or apartment off campus soon? Here are tips for a successful move from Off-Campus Life.

1. Get legal advice

Leases can be complex, and students need to read their lease agreement to understand their responsibilities and rights as tenants. Encourage your student to have their lease reviewed by an expert. They can sign up for a free lease review with Off-Campus Life’s staff attorney to clarify important terms.

2. Fill out an apartment condition sheet

When your student moves into a new apartment, remind them to complete an apartment condition sheet. Their landlord should provide them with this form, but if not, your student can use this check-in/check-out sheet.

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

3. Set up utilities

Encourage your student to check with their landlord and review their lease to see what utilities they are responsible for. This includes things like electricity, water, trash, cable and internet. Some of these utilities may need to be in your student’s name while they are living at the property. If your Buff plans on living with roommates, they should decide who will pay for which utilities and how the costs will be divided.

4. Consider purchasing renters insurance

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

If your student gets renters insurance, they should make a quick video of their apartment after moving in, opening all closets, drawers and cabinets to document their condition. This will help them file a claim if needed.

5. Check in with their landlord

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

After your Buff moves into their new place, here are some other steps to take:

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

Meet the neighbors. Encourage your student to print and fill out these contact cards to share with their neighbors or stop by the Off-Campus Life office in UMC 313 to pick up hard copies.

Know city ordinances. Remind your student to be aware of city ordinances when they move to a residence in ��ý�� to avoid getting tickets and large fines.

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

Is your student moving into a new home or apartment off campus soon? Here are tips for a successful move from Off-Campus Life.

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Know before you go: Commencement 2025

Lynia Herrington — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:55:36 +0000

Know before you go: Commencement 2025 Lynia Herrington Wed, 04/23/2025 - 13:55

Soon, the class of 2025 will celebrate the end of their academic journey at CU ��ý��. We’re excited to welcome family members and friends to participate in this significant moment for our Buffs. Here are some things to know and final reminders for attending the Commencement Ceremony on May 8.

Arrive early

No tickets are required for the commencement ceremony, so early arrival guarantees you the best seating. The stadium gates open at 7 a.m., and we recommend that you are in your seat by 8:15 a.m. to watch the student processional enter the stadium. Learn more about seating in Folsom Field.

Review parking and transportation details

Arriving early also allows you plenty of time to find parking and get to the stadium. Visitors can expect heavy traffic while traveling to ��ý��, in the city and around campus.

All campus parking lots will be open for public parking. Visitors can park on campus for no charge on the days of commencement and recognition ceremonies, including the pay-to-park lots. Free Buff Bus service will be available on the day of commencement to shuttle families and guests to and from campus parking lots and Folsom Field.

Learn more about parking and transportation for commencement, including ADA accessibility parking, accessible drop-off areas and more. Easily find your way around during Commencement with interactive Campus Map.

Know what to bring (and not bring)

A clear bag: Folsom Field has a clear bag policy that will be enforced for Commencement. Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” will be allowed.
Weather-appropriate attire: Colorado weather in May can be unpredictable. No matter the weather, Commencement will happen at Folsom Field. All guests are encouraged to pay attention to the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
An empty water bottle: You may bring an empty, non-disposable plastic water bottle to fill in the stadium if it is 51 ounces or smaller.

Umbrellas, balloons, professional-grade video and camera equipment, artificial noisemakers and other items are not permitted. Review Folsom Field’s prohibited items list for the commencement ceremony.

Make a plan with your student in advance

A large crowd will exit the stadium after the ceremony and cell phone coverage can be unpredictable. Decide in advance where you will meet your graduate to avoid confusion. As you make post-ceremony plans, leave time to find your graduate, take photos and navigate to your student’s recognition ceremony if it is being held the same day.

Get last-minute updates

Check these resources for information and last-minute updates, such as weather advisories:

CU ��ý��’s social media channels (X, Instagram, Facebook)
CU ��ý�� Alerts: Families and guests can opt into CU ��ý�� Alerts messaging by texting “CUGRAD” to 67283. Guest subscribers will automatically be unsubscribed after commencement week.
Commencement page
Recognition ceremonies page

Share your experience

We want to celebrate your student with you! Add #ForeverBuffs wherever you post on social media for the chance to be featured on the video boards at Folsom Field and during the commencement ceremony livestream.

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7 tips to help your student prevent burnout

Lynia Herrington — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 15:49:58 +0000

7 tips to help your student prevent burnout Lynia Herrington Mon, 04/14/2025 - 09:49

The end of the semester can be stressful and hectic, which may increase your student’s chances of feeling burned out.

If your student is struggling to make it through the end of the semester or manage stress, here are a few ways you can help them prevent burnout, identify when it happens and connect with support

What is burnout?

Burnout describes a condition that can manifest when we feel overly stressed, overwhelmed, overloaded or anxious about school, work or life.

Symptoms of academic burnout include:

Feeling mentally, physically or emotionally depleted or exhausted
Avoiding tasks or responsibilities
Developing cynicism or negative feelings towards your classes, instructors or assignments
Losing motivation to do tasks or assignments
Difficulty concentrating
Missing deadlines
Impacts to your student’s academic performance, grades or engagement
Disconnecting from others, feeling isolated or lonely
Difficulty sleeping, changes in eating patterns or an increase in substance use
Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness or irritability
Feeling chronically stressed, anxious or overwhelmed
Feeling dissatisfaction or a lack of meaning and purpose

Keep in mind that burnout can show up differently for different people, and your student may not experience every symptom listed.

However, it’s important to watch for any of these symptoms and take note of which ones may be affecting them. This can make it easier to know when your student is not doing well or when they may need to seek support.

Resource: If your student is feeling anxious, overwhelmed or is struggling to cope, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) can provide support through drop-in hours, workshops and more. Families and loved ones can also call CAPS at 303-492-2277 for support and insight if you’re not sure how to best support your student.

How can students prevent burnout?

Burnout can sneak up on students, especially if they don’t plan ahead. Take some time to discuss ways your student can be proactive and set themselves up for success.

1. Give yourself (and others) grace

Many of us may assume that burnout is a personal issue that could or should be resolved through resilience or willpower. It’s important to recognize that our environments are much bigger predictors in our ability to cope with life. Many students—especially ones dealing with academic, friendship, intimate relationship and home stressors—can experience burnout.

Reminding your student that their classmates and friends may be feeling the same way can help them create opportunities for meaningful conversations and communal support.

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2. Evaluate expectations

All students want to do well in college. However, it’s important to remember that they can only do so much given the time, resources, energy and support they have.

Expectations related to academics may come from outside influences like professors, TAs, family members or others. Encourage your student to take some time to identify expectations they have and ask themselves:

Are these expectations realistic and/or achievable?
Where might these expectations be coming from?
How are these expectations impacting my life outside of class (e.g., mental health, relationships, free time, etc.)?
Do the expectations of others align with the expectations I have for myself?
What expectations am I willing to let go of?
Is there a way for me to find support in managing my expectations?
What might ‘good enough’ look like for me?

Talking through these types of questions with your student can help them identify areas where they may need to adjust their expectations or practice more flexibility.

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3. Focus on what is within your control

We may not have control over different aspects of our lives or academics.

This lack of control can contribute to feelings of burnout. Instead of focusing on what may be outside of your student's control (like deadlines or workload), encourage them to refocus their time and energy toward the things they have a say in.

Here are some examples of things that your student may have some control over:

What extra responsibilities they take on
How they delegate responsibilities (e.g., not doing group projects by themselves)
How they interact with instructors, professors or TAs
How they structure their schedule to match their study needs
How they spend your free time outside of class
When and how they reach out for support
When you put away your work and choose to rest
Who they spend time in class and outside of school
How they advocate for themselves in different environments

Sometimes, it may also be helpful for students to relinquish control over certain things. For instance, once your student has completed a project or submitted an assignment, it is no longer in their hands. This can be difficult for many students to accept, but getting encouragement from family members and loved ones can help ease the discomfort.

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4. Ground their values

When we feel burned out, we may lose sight of our goals or question what we’re really working toward. Talking to your student about their values, why they're in school and how their academics align with their goals can be a helpful way to stay on track.

Here are some questions you can ask your student to get started:

What are your values? (e.g., work ethic, learning, helping others, etc.)
How do these values align with your academic program?
Where can you find support if you need it?
How are the efforts you’re making now helping you accomplish my future goals?
What things are still within your control right now?

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5. Sort through priorities

Instead of giving equal importance to every task or assignment students have, encourage them to think through their priorities and deadlines. For instance, your student may need to evaluate their assignments based on how difficult it is to complete, how it will affect their grades or how energized they feel about a specific topic.

Try to help your student be realistic about what they can and cannot accomplish. Sometimes, they may have to practice acceptance around the fact that there is only so much time in the day. This means that they may not be able to accomplish everything they’ve set out to do, and that’s okay. Prioritizing their tasks can help them decide what is worth doing and what is worth letting go.

If your student needs support with setting goals, managing their time or finding additional support, we recommend they meet with a peer wellness coach. These Buffs are trained to help their peers and likely have similar experiences that can help other students navigate challenges.

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6. Spend time recharging

While it may seem counterintuitive, it can be helpful to take breaks from responsibilities or coursework. In fact, stepping away can help students retain more information, feel more motivated and give them the energy to finish the tasks they've been dreading.

Here are some ways that you can encourage your student to make time for their own well-being.

Get a restful night of sleep by reducing their caffeine, avoiding all-nighters or creating a bedtime routine that will help them relax.
Make time for their hobbies outside of school, even if it’s only for 30 minutes.
Stay connected with their friends and take breaks together.
Take some time to visualize what success looks like for their short-term and long-term goals.

Peer wellness coaches are here to support students with a variety of self-care topics, including sleep, relationships, stress management and more.

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7. Reset your system

If your student starts to experience burnout, it’s important to address it sooner rather than later.

That’s because feelings of stress, anxiety and burnout can impact academic performance, mental health, nervous system responses and overall well-being. Here are some tips to you can share with your student to help them manage burnout and reset their system both in the moment and over time: Must-try ways to manage stress and anxiety.

If your student is struggling to make it through the end of the semester or manage stress, here are a few ways you can help them prevent burnout, identify when it happens and connect with support.

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Be prepared for the 2025 commencement ceremony

Lynia Herrington — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 14:06:14 +0000

Be prepared for the 2025 commencement ceremony Lynia Herrington Wed, 04/09/2025 - 08:06

Commencement 2025 is just around the corner, and we want you to have a smooth and enjoyable time at CU ��ý��. Here is valuable information about the commencement ceremony to help you plan your celebration.

Arrival & Parking

Expect heavy traffic in ��ý�� and on campus for commencement. We recommend arriving early to allow time to navigate traffic, park and arrive at the stadium. All campus parking lots will be free and open for public parking on a space-available basis on the days of the commencement ceremony and recognition ceremonies.

Review campus parking options.

Accommodations

We are committed to ensuring that our commencement and recognition ceremonies are accessible and inclusive for all. ADA-accessible parking and drop-off locations are available for individuals with disabilities and those with limited mobility. Other accommodations include real-time captioning, assistive listening devices, all-gender restrooms, wheelchair assistance and seating, lactation spaces and more.

Learn more about ADA and accommodations for the commencement ceremony and recognition ceremonies.

Commencement Ceremony Details

What to bring
Folsom Field has a clear bag policy that will be enforced for the commencement ceremony and attendees can expect to go through a security screening before entering the stadium. Only clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” or a one-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic freezer bag are allowed. No other bags, including backpacks, diaper bags and other similar bags, are permitted.

Review the list of items prohibited at Folsom Field. Items like balloons, professional-grade video and camera equipment, artificial noisemakers and more are not permitted.

When and how to find seating for the ceremony
The stadium gates will open at 7 a.m., and we recommend that you are in your seat by 8:15 a.m. to watch the student processional. No tickets are required, so early arrival guarantees the best seating.

Find a seat near your graduate using our commencement seating map.

Frequently Asked Questions
Visit the commencement FAQ page for additional information.

Plan your complete celebration schedule

The commencement ceremony is our premier event to celebrate all graduating Buffs—but it’s not the only ceremony where you can celebrate your student. Your student may also be invited to participate in recognition ceremonies or cultural and affinity commencement celebrations.

View the full schedule of ceremonies and celebrations during Commencement.

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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 ��ý��.

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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý�� 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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5 fun ways to celebrate your graduate

Emily Sampl — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:00:44 +0000

5 fun ways to celebrate your graduate Emily Sampl Fri, 03/21/2025 - 09:00

Now is the time to think about how you can celebrate your graduating student this spring. Your student has worked hard to complete their degree, and we have resources to help you recognize their accomplishments.

Signs, banners and posters

You can download ready-to-print signs, banners and posters to send to your printer. These are perfect for displaying on your lawn, at a graduation party or for other recognition of their graduation.

Attend commencement ceremonies

Honor your graduate by attending the university commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, at Folsom Field. Your graduate may also be invited to participate in recognition ceremonies hosted by colleges, schools, departments and programs to mark their involvement and achievements at CU ��ý��.

Tag your social media posts

You can download graphics to post on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and LinkedIn. Add #ForeverBuffs wherever you post so we can celebrate with you!

Give alumni gear

Your student will soon be a CU ��ý�� alum. Recognize their accomplishments with a graduation gift from the CU Book Store, such as a frame for their new diploma or CU-branded alumni gear. Jostens also offers unique gifts, including college jewelry and a display UplomaTM.

Connect to the Forever Buffs community

Remind your student to connect with the Forever Buffs community, which includes almost 300,000 alumni worldwide. By updating their contact information, your student can stay connected to the Alumni Association and resources to help them after graduation.

Graduation is around the corner, and this is a great time to start planning ways to celebrate your Forever Buff. From downloadable signs to graduation gifts, check out these ideas to help make commencement day special.

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Tips for talking to your student about March Madness sports betting

Anonymous — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:30:34 +0000

Tips for talking to your student about March Madness sports betting Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 03/05/2025 - 10:30

Did you know that according to the National Council on Problem Gambling, nearly 67% of college students bet on sports?* This figure doesn’t even include those who also bet on the lottery, card games, mobile games or casinos.

If your student plans to place bets during March Madness, here are some tips, strategies and resources you can share to help them avoid risky behaviors and get help if needed.

1. Reflect on their habits

Gambling is not inherently wrong or bad. However, it is important to remember that gambling sites, games and apps are all designed to keep people betting. They do this by stimulating our brains’ reward center, much like alcohol and other drugs do, which can lead to addictive behaviors. Learn more about how a person’s brain reacts to gambling wins and losses by reading the science behind gambling.

It’s also a good idea to check in with your student to talk about their betting or gambling habits. Encourage them to think back over the past 12 months and ask questions like:

How does betting and/or gambling impact you?
Have you gambled more often or with more money?
Have you withdrawn from relationships?
Have you borrowed money to cover gambling debts?
Do you hide your bets or gambling habits from others?
Do you feel the urge to keep betting even when you’re losing?
Has gambling caused you any health-related issues, including stress or anxiety?
Have you ever felt guilty or remorseful about the way you gamble or what happens when you gamble?

If your student answered yes to these questions, it may be time to reassess their gambling habits. They can also take this quick free quiz to get help evaluating their current habits.

2. Practice safer play

Setting limits around how much money and time we spend on gambling can help us avoid unwanted financial consequences. Here are some ways your student can mitigate their financial risks and significant losses:

Set time and money limits. Encourage your student to take advantage of the features available on gambling sites to help them monitor their play and know when they’ve gone over their time or money limit. Remind them to resist the urge to keep betting or playing once they’ve reached this limit.

Budget for gambling. Encourage your student to think about what they can reasonably afford to spend on gambling. This can help them set a budget and stick to it. If your student struggles to keep track of their spending, you may want to recommend that they remove their credit or debit card information from their phone or laptop so it can’t autofill on sites. Additionally, if they're going out somewhere to bet, they may want to leave their cards at home. Remind your student to never borrow money or use money that is intended for basic needs (e.g., rent and food) to place bets.

Know how it works. Encourage your student to research how a specific game or betting system works before they place any bets. For instance, some bets may depend on the outcome of the game, while others may rely on a point spread or games that will be decided in the future. Make sure your student knows what types of bets they’re making and how the system works to help reduce their risk of losing more than they expected.

Bet only what you can afford to lose. All gambling comes with risk. Sometimes you’re up and sometimes you’re not. That’s why it’s important to help your student consider how much money they’re willing to lose before they start placing bets. Remind your student that if they lose their money, they should never try to win it back. This often results in bigger losses than they would have incurred if they had let the money go.

3. Find a balance

If students gamble for long periods of time, it can make it difficult to keep track of their time, money, schedules and life outside of betting. If your student chooses to gamble, encourage your student to step away regularly so they can clear their head and foster a more intentional relationship with betting or gambling. Here are a few tips to help your student strike a balance between gambling and other activities:

Balance recreational gambling with other hobbies or interests.
Delete gambling apps from their phone, laptop and other devices.
Consider removing their credit or debit card information from the ‘autofill’ function on their phone, computer or other devices.
Set time limits or block sites that they'd like to spend less time on using software like Bet Blocker or GamBan.
Avoid betting or playing when their emotions are heightened (e.g., stressed, upset, angry, frustrated, etc.).
Avoid gambling while under the influence of alcohol or other substances. This may cause them to take more risks than they normally would when betting.

Students can also check out our free gambling guide to learn quick tips for how to gamble in a more intentional way, find balance, know the warning signs of problem gambling and get help or seek recovery.

4. Share your experiences

It’s common for people to be more open about their experiences when they result in success or winnings. However, it’s also important to address losses you may have experienced.

Try to initiate open, honest and balanced conversations around sports betting and gambling with your students. Being vulnerable and sharing your real-life experiences with the highs and lows of sports betting can help your student identify habits or tactics that may need to change. It can also provide your student with insight into how others view gambling, what limits they have in place and how it impacts people’s lives differently. You can also encourage your student to have these types of conversations with their friends or roommates.

Here are a few questions you may ask when talking with your student:

How does betting impact the enjoyment of watching sports for you?
How risky do you believe sports betting is compared to other types of gambling?
What types of sports do you bet on?
How hard/easy is it to make money betting?
Have you experienced any losses this year? What was it like?
How do you see your relationship with betting changing over the next few years?

5. Seek support

When betting becomes problematic, it not only increases your student's financial risks, but it can also increase their risk of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and relationship issues.

Some people may also experience compulsive gambling. Compulsive gambling happens when someone has an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on their life or finances. When someone is engaged in compulsive gambling, they tend to chase bets that lose more often, use up their savings, get into debt or resort to theft or fraud to fund their gambling habits.

If you’re concerned about how gambling is affecting your student, there are resources and programs available to help:

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)
The CUCRC on campus provides community and support for students in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors, including gambling.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS can help students explore their relationship with gambling and help you connect with support resources. Students can schedule a screening or stop by during a Let’s Talk session to meet with a provider.

National Problem Gambling Helpline
The National Problem Gambling Helpline is operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). They provide 24/7 phone, text and chat services to help connect individuals with local resources and support related to gambling concerns.

Gamtalk
Gamtalk is a free, anonymous, peer-based support network that helps individuals with problem gambling. They offer moderated group support chats online 24/7.

*Gambling is prohibited in CU ��ý�� residence halls. NCAA rules prohibit athletics staff and student-athletes from participating in any sports wagering activities on an NCAA sponsored sport, at any level.

If your student plans to place bets during March Madness, here are some tips, strategies and resources you can share to help them avoid risky behaviors and get help if needed.

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