Buff Family News

Be prepared for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Lynia Herrington — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:06:14 +0000

Be prepared for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony Lynia Herrington Fri, 04/03/2026 - 08:06

Spring Commencement is just around the corner, and we’re so glad you’ll be joining us at ��ӽ紫ý to celebrate your Buff! The following information will help you plan ahead and enjoy a meaningful day on campus.

Planning your arrival

Expect traffic and arrive early

Commencement weekend brings a lot of excitement—and a lot of visitors—to Boulder and campus. Please plan for heavy traffic and allow extra time to park and get to the stadium.

All ��ӽ紫ý campus parking lots will be free and open to the public on a space-available basis during the commencement and recognition ceremonies.

Review campus parking options before you arrive

Early arrival will help reduce stress and ensure a smoother experience

Accessibility and accommodations

��ӽ紫ý is committed to making commencement and recognition ceremonies welcoming and accessible for all guests.

Available accommodations include:

ADA‑accessible parking and drop‑off locations

Wheelchair seating and assistance

Real-time captioning and assistive listening devices

All-gender restrooms

Lactation spaces and additional support services

We encourage families to review the ADA and accommodations information in advance so everyone in your party can fully enjoy the celebration.

Commencement Ceremony details

What to bring (and what to leave at home)

Folsom Field has a clear bag policy that will be enforced during the commencement ceremony. All guests should expect to go through a security screening before entering the stadium.

Allowed bags:

Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”

One-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic freezer bags

Please note that backpacks, diaper bags and other similar bags are not permitted.

Several items are also prohibited inside Folsom Field, including balloons, artificial noisemakers, professional‑grade cameras and video equipment. Reviewing the prohibited items list ahead of time can help avoid delays at the gate.

Seating and ceremony timing

Stadium gates open: 7 a.m.

Recommended seating time: By 8:15 a.m. to enjoy watching the student processional

No tickets are required for the commencement ceremony. Seating is first‑come, first‑served, so arriving early is the best way to secure seats together and near your graduate.

Build your full celebration schedule

The main commencement ceremony is ��ӽ紫ý’s premier event honoring all graduating Buffs, but it’s not the only opportunity to celebrate.

The celebrations continue at the recognition ceremonies hosted by your student's specific college, school, department or program. Recognition ceremonies complement the commencement ceremony by recognizing the individual student in a smaller, more intimate setting.

We encourage families to view the full commencement celebrations schedule to make the most of this special milestone.

Have questions?

Many common questions are answered on the commencement FAQ page—this is a great resource as you finalize travel plans and prepare for the day.

We’re honored to celebrate this moment with your family and look forward to welcoming you to campus for Spring Commencement!

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Move out tips and summer storage

Lynia Herrington — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:26:40 +0000

Move out tips and summer storage Lynia Herrington Mon, 03/30/2026 - 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, reminders and summer storage options to share with them.

Donate items

Donating helps your community and cuts down on waste.

On-campus residents: Give and Go Donation Drive

If your student lives on campus, encourage them to take part in the Give and Go Donation Drive from April 27-May 1. They can donate:

Clothing and shoes

Usable home goods

Unopened, non‑perishable food

Books and school supplies

Toiletries, hygiene products and cleaning supplies

Items not accepted:

Bedding, pillows or towels

Broken items

Off-campus residents: Drop-off locations on The Hill

If your Buff lives off campus, they can use drop‑off sites on The Hill to get rid of hard‑to‑recycle items like furniture, mattresses and electronics. This program is a partnership between the Environmental Center, Off-Campus Life and the city of Boulder.

2026 drop-off dates will be May 4-5. Students can also use this form to request a pickup of unwanted items from your property between the dates of April 20 and April 24.

Drop-off locations:

11th St. & Pennsylvania Ave.

13th St. & Euclid Ave.

15th St. & Euclid Ave.

10th St. & College Ave.

Aurora Ave. & 12th St.

There are also donation centers around Boulder that accept usable items in good condition.

Is your student looking to donate their bike? Unwanted bikes can be donated at the TLC and UMC bike stations, where they will be refurbished and sold at the annual fall bike sale.

Store items

If your student plans to keep and use their items again next year, storage is a great option.

Summer storage

Students can check out our preferred storage partners in the area for convenient options. The UPS Store at ��ӽ紫ý offers packing, shipping and storage services to help make your student’s move easy, and there are several other local storage providers available for your Buff’s needs.

Bike storage on campus

The CU Bike Program offers secure, covered bike storage for the entire summer for $20. Bikes left on outdoor racks are often stolen, and abandoned bikes may be impounded—summer storage is a safer option.

When: April 27–29, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Where: CU Bicycle Warehouse (southwest corner of 3100 Marine St.) or the TLC bike station

Cost: $20 (credit/debit only)

How it works: No reservations—bikes are accepted first‑come, first‑served

If your student wishes to keep their bike for all of finals week, they can email bicycle@colorado.edu to discuss later drop-off options.

Dispose of items that can’t be donated

Some items need special handling and should not go in the trash.

Medications: Students can use the take‑back box in the lobby of the Parking Services and Police Department building.

Vapes and hazardous tobacco products: Students can dispose of them at designated locations in the UMC and Village Center.

Electronics: In Colorado, it’s illegal to throw electronics in the trash. Students can:

Donate usable electronics to thrift stores.

Recycle broken electronics at Eco‑Cycle’s Center for Hard‑to‑Recycle Materials, Staples or Best Buy.

Household hazardous waste: Students can learn how to dispose of hazardous waste items like fluorescent bulbs, cleaning products, motor oil, antifreeze, paint and yard care products.

Other hard‑to‑recycle items: Students can visit the Environmental Center website for guidance on disposing of batteries, cell phones and toner cartridges.

For more sustainability tips and resources on recycling and beyond, encourage your Buff to connect with the Environmental Center.

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Supporting your student through finals

Emily Sampl — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:38:38 +0000

Supporting your student through finals Emily Sampl Thu, 03/26/2026 - 12:38

Finals mark an important milestone each semester—a time when students are pulling together what they’ve learned and preparing to wrap up the academic year. With full schedules and priorities competing for attention, it’s helpful for students to have simple tools and steady support as they move through these final weeks. Your encouragement can help your student stay grounded, confident and connected to resources that support their well‑being.

Everyday tools and habits that support well‑being

During finals, small, practical strategies combined with healthy daily habits can help students stay grounded and focused. These approaches don’t require extra time or perfection—even brief moments of care can make a difference. Here are some tips to share with your student:

Pause and breathe: Slow, steady breathing can help calm the body during stressful moments. Techniques like box breathing (inhaling, holding and exhaling for a few counts) can help students reset and refocus.

Stay present: Grounding techniques that use the senses (noticing what they can see, hear or feel) can help bring attention back to the present moment when stress feels distracting.

Check basic needs: Stress often feels heavier when students are hungry, tired, lonely or dehydrated. Regular meals, rest, water and connection with others help support both energy and mood.

Move and take breaks: Light movement like walking, stretching or visiting The Rec can help students recharge.

Prioritize rest and connection: Sleep, social time and campus involvement all play an important role in maintaining emotional well‑being, especially during busy weeks.

How families can support their student

Even from a distance, families play an important role. Consider these ways to offer support:

Listen—sometimes students just need space to talk

Ask open‑ended questions like “What’s feeling most important right now?”

Encourage rest and breaks, especially when conversations focus heavily on productivity

Remind them of available resources if they mention feeling overwhelmed

Offer reassurance that effort matters more than perfection.

Most of all, staying connected and letting your student know you’re in their corner can provide steady encouragement through finals and beyond.

Campus support and mental health resources

Students don’t have to navigate stress alone. ��ӽ紫ý offers a range of free and accessible resources:

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides workshops, drop‑in hours, screenings and referrals to support students’ mental health. Free workshops include Anxiety Toolbox, Feel Better Fast and Feel Good Friday meditation sessions at the CU Art Museum.

BetterMynd
CAPS has partnered with BetterMynd to offer free, flexible and confidential online counseling for ��ӽ紫ý students.

Peer Wellness Coaching
Students can meet with trained peer coaches to talk through stress, routines, time management and well‑being goals in a supportive, non‑clinical setting.

Acupuncture (Acudetox)
Free acupuncture sessions are available through CAPS and the Collegiate Recovery Community and may help with stress relief and overall well‑being. Families can also purchase gift certificates for acupuncture sessions through Medical Services.

Encouraging your student to explore these options, and reminding them that seeking support is a sign of strength, can help normalize using campus resources.

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From Vice Chancellor Mull: Celebrating Buffs All In together

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:13:54 +0000

From Vice Chancellor Mull: Celebrating Buffs All In together Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 03/19/2026 - 09:13

Hi Buff families,

As students return to campus after spring break, this point in the semester often marks a natural transition. With longer days and seasonal changes around campus, many students are moving into the final stretch of the academic term and continuing to define their ��ӽ紫ý experience.

Buffs All In

March is a special time at ��ӽ紫ý as we recognize Buffs All In, our annual season of giving. Each year, we are reminded of what is possible when Buffs show up for one another and invest in the traditions, programs and opportunities that support student life.

Throughout the month, many students have engaged with Buffs All In Student Philanthropy in a variety of ways, including connecting with the Herd Leadership Council. The Herd helps students understand how giving supports campus traditions and student programs, while also building leadership skills and a deeper understanding of how ��ӽ紫ý is supported by those who care about our university.

Join me and get involved

As part of Buffs All In, I’m inviting families to join me in a giving challenge in support of Student Life. When 200 donors contribute, an additional $1,000 will be unlocked to support student programs, experiences and campus traditions. Every gift—no matter the size—plays a role in strengthening student life at ��ӽ紫ý.

Students are also invited to take part in the Buffs All In Celebration on Tuesday, March 31, with activities happening at locations across campus. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, celebrate and be part of this shared effort.

How Buffs make a difference

As Buffs All In concludes at the end of March, it is also a reminder that support for students takes many forms. Giving is not only about financial contributions—it includes sharing time, talents and encouragement in ways that make a positive difference. These efforts, large and small, help strengthen the ��ӽ紫ý experience for current and future Buffs.

I am continually inspired by the leadership and engagement I see from our students, and I am grateful for the role families play in supporting them along the way. Thank you for being part of what makes ��ӽ紫ý such a special place. As the semester continues, your encouragement and involvement remain an important part of your student’s journey.

Warmly,
Dr. D’Andra Mull
Vice Chancellor for Student Life

March is a special time at ��ӽ紫ý as we come together to celebrate generosity and connection through Buffs All In. Vice Chancellor for Student Life Dr. D'Andra Mull shares more about how Buffs can get involved.

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Tips for talking with your student about their future

Anonymous — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:27:48 +0000

Tips for talking with your student about their future Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 03/06/2026 - 09:27

Career Services

Talking about careers with your student can be a meaningful opportunity to connect. Today’s career paths are more varied than ever, and students don’t need to have everything figured out right now. With encouragement, open conversations and the right resources, students can take small, confident steps toward their future.

Here are a few ways to approach career conversations with your student, plus tools and resources that can help along the way.

Start with listening, not solving

Today’s job market looks different than it did even a few years ago. Many “entry‑level” jobs now ask for previous experience, which can feel discouraging to students who are just getting started.

When talking with your student:

Ask open-ended questions like, “What kinds of roles are you curious about right now?”

Listen without rushing to fix or advise.

Validate that it’s okay to feel unsure or overwhelmed.

Sometimes students just need space to talk things through before they’re ready for next steps.

Help them see the skills they’re already building

Many students don’t realize how much experience they already have. Professional skills aren’t just gained through internships. They’re built every day through:

Classes and group projects

Student organizations and leadership roles

Part-time jobs and on-campus employment

Volunteering and community involvement

You can help by asking questions like:

“What kinds of projects have you enjoyed?”

“What problems do people come to you for help with?”

If your student has trouble naming their skills, Career Services offers tools and information to help students identify and talk about what they’ve gained, and how it connects to future roles.

Share that career paths aren’t always straight lines

If your own career path (or that of someone you know) took a few turns, share that story. Many students feel pressure to have everything figured out right now, and it might help put things in perspective.

Remind them:

It’s normal for career paths to change.

Taking a next step matters more than choosing a “perfect” job.

Learning what doesn’t fit can be just as valuable as learning what does.

If your Buff is looking for more guidance, career advisors can also help students explore majors, interests and options without pressure to commit to one path.

Encourage values-based conversations

Careers aren’t just about job titles—they’re also about what matters to a student.

You might ask:

“What kinds of challenges do you want to help solve?”

“What kind of work environment feels right to you?”

Career Services offers tools like Career Values Card Sort and SparkPath Challenge Cards to help students think about how their values connect to the types of work they may enjoy. These can be great conversation starters and a way to start exploring.

Normalize networking as relationship-building

For many students, “networking” sounds intimidating. It can help to reframe it as simply learning from others.

Let your student know:

Networking starts the moment they enroll at CU—faculty, staff supervisors and peers can all be in their network.

Conversations—not job asks—are the goal.

It’s okay to be curious and ask questions.

Students can tap into the CU network through:

Forever Buffs Network, where they can connect directly with alumni

LinkedIn’s alumni tool, to see where CU graduates work and what roles they hold

Career events and employer visits on campus

Explore part-time jobs and experiences

Hands-on experience helps students build confidence and skills early.

Encourage your student to:

Log into Handshake and explore jobs, internships and events

Use keywords tied to interests—not just majors

Look at curated job searches and on-campus opportunities

On-campus student employment is a great way to earn money, build a resume and practice professional skills in a supportive environment.

Encourage them to show up, even if they’re unsure

Career fairs and events are designed for exploration, not perfection. All students of all majors are welcome at events like the Just in Time Career and Internship Fair on April 2. Showing up, asking questions and practicing conversations are wins on their own.

Remind them they don’t have to do this alone

If these conversations feel like a big leap, that’s okay. Career Services is here to help students:

Explore majors and career interests

Take career assessments

Build resumes and practice interviews

Make a plan—step by step

Students can meet with a career advisor one-on-one or stop by during drop‑in hours, no matter their major or career goals.

Here are a few ways to approach career conversations with your student, plus tools and resources that can help along the way.

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Start planning for spring 2026 commencement

Anonymous — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:42:54 +0000

Start planning for spring 2026 commencement Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 02/24/2026 - 13:42

Spring commencement will be here before you know it, and now is a great time to start planning your trip to Boulder. Graduation is a special milestone for college students, and planning ahead can help you and your Buff enjoy the celebration. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for commencement.

Encourage your student to apply for graduation

Each student must officially apply to graduate. Encourage your student to review important deadlines and make a plan to apply for spring graduation. You’ll also learn more about preparing for graduation day, including purchasing a cap and gown and ordering graduation announcements.

Prepare for your visit to Boulder

Commencement weekend is a busy time in Boulder, so planning ahead can make your visit more enjoyable. Hotels and vacation rentals tend to fill up quickly, particularly in Boulder, so you may want to book lodging early or explore nearby areas.

Restaurants are also in high demand during graduation. Consider making reservations ahead of time. Downtown Boulder’s dining guide and events calendar are great places to find dining and entertainment options during your stay.

Commencement Ceremony details

The university commencement ceremony will be held 8:30 a.m. Saturday, May 2, at Folsom Field. The event does not require tickets or registration. This traditional ceremony celebrates the academic accomplishments of all our graduates.

The commencement ceremony lasts approximately 90 minutes and features a processional of the graduates, conferral of degrees, remarks from ��ӽ紫ý leadership and other celebratory elements. Learn more about the commencement ceremony.

Recognition ceremonies

Commencement includes two types of events:

A campuswide commencement ceremony

Individual recognition ceremonies hosted by colleges, schools, departments and programs

Students and families are encouraged to attend both.

Your student may be invited to participate in one or more recognition ceremonies. At these events, students are recognized individually as they cross the stage and receive a diploma cover. Diplomas are mailed to students after commencement. Learn more about spring recognition ceremonies.

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5 ways your student can get involved this spring

Emily Sampl — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 22:37:30 +0000

5 ways your student can get involved this spring Emily Sampl Wed, 01/28/2026 - 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 ��ӽ紫ý.

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 Boulder community. Encourage your student to connect with Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) 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 Boulder.

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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Supporting your student when they’re sick

Emily Sampl — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 17:44:24 +0000

Supporting your student when they’re sick Emily Sampl Fri, 01/23/2026 - 10:44

As the semester gets busy, it’s natural to worry if your student comes down with a cold, flu or another common illness. Even from afar, your calm encouragement can help them feel more supported and prepared. Here are some simple ways you can help guide them through getting sick while at school.

Encourage your student to stay home

If your student isn’t feeling well, remind them that it’s okay—and important—to stay home and rest. Staying away from others (including roommates when possible) helps prevent illnesses from spreading. Wearing a mask can also reduce the risk of passing respiratory viruses to the people they live with.

If they need to miss class or work, encourage them to:

Email instructors or supervisors to let them know they’re sick

Mention any assignments due and offer to make up the work

Discuss a plan with instructors if they expect to be out for more than a day or two

Contact Disability Services if they have a temporary condition like an extended illness, injury or surgery

Most students can return to normal activities after at least 24 hours of improving symptoms and no fever.

Help them monitor symptoms

Many illnesses share similar symptoms—fever, fatigue, headaches and sore throat can show up with colds, flu, strep throat, mono and COVID. Testing can help your student understand what they might be dealing with.

Your student can:

Schedule testing at Wardenburg Health Center or a local clinic

Pick up COVID or flu at‑home test kits at the Apothecary Pharmacy on campus or other local pharmacies

Wear a mask if they’re unsure what they have, especially around others

While sick, most students can care for themselves at home with basic remedies such as:

Drinking plenty of water, tea or electrolyte drinks

Getting extra rest

Using cough drops, saltwater gargles or honey for sore throats

Taking over‑the‑counter medications for fever, nausea or other symptoms

On‑campus resources for student:

Free illness‑care supplies at Wardenburg’s Wellness Suite (third floor) and Village Center Wellness

Free cold‑care kits delivered to residence halls through the Buff Box program

Test kits, OTC medications and prescriptions at the Apothecary Pharmacy

Help them know when to seek care

If your student is unsure what to do, encourage them to call their primary care provider or Medical Services at 303‑492‑5101. They can also schedule a same‑day nurse call through their MyCUHealth portal. A nurse can help them understand their symptoms and decide whether to stay home or visit a clinic.

For after-hours care, ��ӽ紫ý Medical Services has partnered with the TimelyCare mobile app to offer all students free access to telehealth medical support. Encourage your student to create an account at timelycare.com/cuboulder to get started.

They should seek emergency care right away if they have:

Trouble breathing

Chest pain or pressure

Sudden confusion

Difficulty staying awake

Blue or gray lips, face or skin

If they’re experiencing severe symptoms and aren’t sure where to go, they should contact a medical provider for guidance or call 911 in an emergency.

With your reassurance, and the resources available on campus, your student can feel more confident navigating illness and getting back to their routines when they’re ready.

As the semester picks up pace, it’s completely understandable to feel concerned if your college student faces common illnesses like the flu or a cold. Even from afar, your encouragement and support can make a meaningful difference. With a few caring tips, you can help your student feel prepared and confident if they get sick while away at school.

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Helping your student navigate today’s job search

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:06:11 +0000

Helping your student navigate today’s job search Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 01/20/2026 - 17:06

By Career Services

The job market looks very different today than it did years ago. Today’s process is more about strategy, networking and building skills than sending out hundreds of applications.

As a family member, you can play an important role in helping your student feel confident and supported in their job search. Here are some practical tips to help your student navigate the process.

Approach conversations with care

Job searching can be stressful, and certain questions can add pressure. Instead of asking questions like “How many internships or jobs have you applied for?” or “What are your plans for next summer?” try saying, “Would you like my advice or ideas?” or “Is there a way I can help you right now?” This approach keeps the dialogue positive and shows you’re there to help, not to add stress.

Top employers hiring ��ӽ紫ý graduates

��ӽ紫ý

Lockheed Martin

Amazon

Deloitte

State of Colorado

BAE Systems

Charles Schwab

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Fidelity Investments

Northrop Grumman

United States Air Force

UCHealth

Apple

NREL

Networking is key

Today’s job search isn’t just about applying online. Students should spend time building connections with people in their fields of interest. Networking often leads to opportunities that applications alone can’t.

Encourage your student to join the Forever Buffs Network, where they can connect with alumni for mentorship, advice and career insights from people who have traveled a similar path. Your student can also set up informational interviews—short conversations where they learn about a job or industry from someone who works in it. One way you can help your student grow their network is to offer “warm introductions” to professionals you know.

Tailor application materials

Generic resumes and cover letters don’t stand out. Students should create a base resume and cover letter, then customize them for each application.

Generative AI tools can help with writing and tailoring application materials, but remind your student to keep their own voice and always review content before submitting. For tips on using AI in job searches, check out the GenAI Career Prompting Guide from Career Services.

Professional experience comes in many forms

Gaining resume experience isn’t limited to traditional jobs or internships. Volunteering, participating in research projects and contributing to class assignments all help students develop valuable skills and enhance their resumes.

The Public Interest Internship Experience (PIIE) is a great way for students to earn a paycheck while working with local nonprofits and government organizations. The program also provides mentorship and professional growth opportunities. Applications for summer 2026 open on Jan. 19.

Working on campus is another excellent way to build professional experience. Students can search for on-campus positions using Handshake and apply the “On-Campus Student Jobs” filter.

These experiences not only help students grow professionally, but also make their resumes stand out to future employers.

Take advantage of campus events

On-campus career fairs, workshops and networking events can also help students build skills, make progress in their search and meet employers.

This spring, encourage your student to attend the Just in Time Career & Internship Fair on April 2. It’s a great opportunity for students to connect with employers who are actively hiring, discover last-minute job and internship openings and practice their networking skills in a supportive environment. Participating in events like this can help your student gain confidence and make meaningful professional connections.

At ��ӽ紫ý, your student has many ways to build skills and gain experience—and your encouragement and support can make a big difference!

As a family member, you can play an important role in helping your student feel confident and supported in their job search. Here are some practical tips to help your student navigate the process.

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6 tips for talking to students about suicide

Anonymous — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:54:59 +0000

6 tips for talking to students about suicide Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 12/01/2025 - 09:54

While college is often a time of growth and opportunity, it can also be a period of intense stress that heightens suicide risk for some students. 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

There are sometimes subtle or more obvious signs that 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:

Significant behavioral or emotional change

Withdrawing from friends, family or peer groups

Difficulty with self-care (like changes in appearance or hygiene)

Changes in academic performance (like cutting class, missing assignments, etc.)

Acting recklessly or engaging in risky behaviors

Engaging in self-destructive behaviors

Increased substance use

Being unable to sleep or sleeping all the time

Irritability, agitation or lashing out

Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide

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

Expressing feeling desperate or trapped, like there is no way out

Comments about being a burden on others

Expressing feelings of hopelessness

Giving away possessions

The above signs could indicate that someone is struggling and if you notice these comments or behaviors, 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.”

Let them know that this comes from a place of care, not criticism. Acknowledging their distress can help open the door for conversation. Recognize that your student may be hesitant to share with you due to fear about upsetting you, adding to your stress, or out of concern that you will not understand. Let them know that it is OK to talk to you about these things, and helpful for you to know how they are really doing.

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 about suicidal thoughts, 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 is time to start exploring resources that can help, including those on campus. Family members can call 303-492-2277 to connect with a crisis counselor at Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS). While CAPS therapists cannot confirm or deny if they are currently seeing your student due to privacy laws, they can consult with you generally about steps for supporting your student’s safety and discuss campus resources.

4. 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.

5. 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 thoughts are often short-term and specific to certain situations. In many cases, suicidal 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.

6. Instill hope

Let your student know that there are resources available to help them and things can get better. Don’t be afraid to call for help immediately if you’re worried about their safety. Here are some on-campus resources that are available to help students who are struggling with mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide.

Welfare checks

Welfare checks should be considered when you are significantly worried about someone’s safety due to their recent behavior, or statements, and you or a friend or loved one are not able to contact them or ensure they are safe.

Welfare checks can be performed by any police department if you’re concerned about the health, safety or welfare of another person. Be prepared to give the exact address where the person is located (residence hall and room number if on campus) as well as the reason for your concerns.

On campus: CUPD 303-492-6666

Off campus: Boulder Police 303-441-3333 or the person’s local police department

Urgent resources

Crisis services

If your students need urgent or same-day support, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides crisis support 24/7. Call 303-492-2277 to connect with a crisis counselor. While CAPS therapists cannot confirm or deny if they are currently seeing your student due to privacy laws, they can consult with you generally about steps for supporting your student’s safety and discuss campus resources.

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support provides support for Buffs throughout their time at ��ӽ紫ý. They are here to help students identify issues and appropriate resources. Student Outreach staff can also reach out to your student to try to proactively engage them with services. If a student meets with them, they also work collaboratively to develop an action plan.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term trauma-specific counseling services for students, grad students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive events/incidents.

Additional resources

Let’s Talk

If your student could use additional support outside of the resources above, Let’s Talk is a great way for them to get connected with support services. They can meet one-on-one with a CAPS counselor for a confidential consultation that can help them gain insight and connect with additional resources on campus.

Workshops

If your student could use some skill building, workshops are a great way for them 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.

Welltrack Boost

WellTrack Boost is a free app that is available to all ��ӽ紫ý students. It is designed to help students understand their mental health and to provide them with the help that they need online. This app address issues like stress, resiliency, anxiety and/or depression. WellTrack Boost is a self-guided and interactive way to manage mental well-being.

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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