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 欧美口爆视频 Boulder.    

2. Attend student events  

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

• Inclusive Rec events
• Center for Inclusion and Social Change events
• Gaming events
• Career events and workshops 

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 欧美口爆视频 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 the Volunteer Resource Center to find opportunities to fit their schedule. They could also check out 欧美口爆视频 in the Community for one-time service events or search 欧美口爆视频Serves 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鈥檚 classes and other commitments. They can explore on-campus job opportunities on . 

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Social connection is an important part of college and adulthood. However, many students may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation during their time at 欧美口爆视频. 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鈥檙e 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鈥檚 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鈥檙e going through. Help them acknowledge that feeling lonely doesn鈥檛 mean they鈥檙e 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鈥檛 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, 鈥淭hat sounds really hard鈥� or 鈥淚 can tell how difficult this is for you鈥� 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鈥檚 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鈥檙e having a bad day or may need some additional support. For instance, your student may send you a text that says, 鈥淒o you have 10 minutes?鈥� or 鈥淭oday has been tough鈥� to let you know they need a sense of connection. 

4. Encourage small steps toward connection 

If your student feels lost or isn鈥檛 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鈥檚 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 欧美口爆视频, 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 欧美口爆视频 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鈥檚 probably a student organization that fits their interests. Organizations can be a great way to get involved, find support and make lifelong friends.
• 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.

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As a Transfer Buff, your student belongs to 欧美口爆视频 Boulder'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鈥攖hey 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 or start their own. 

• Explore volunteer opportunities on . 

• 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 @欧美口爆视频BoulderLife on , and , and download the 欧美口爆视频 Boulder 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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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鈥檚 why it鈥檚 important to take some time to get to know your student again, even if it feels like things haven鈥檛 changed. 

Ask open-ended questions about their classes, major, what they鈥檝e been up to, what their friends are like and how they鈥檙e 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鈥檛 caught off guard. Consider things like curfews, chores, commitments and other factors. 

It鈥檚 also a good idea to talk with your students about their own plans. They may have different ideas of how they鈥檇 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鈥檚 okay if your student wants some time to themselves鈥攖hey may need some time to decompress from a busy semester.  

3. Discuss any changes

Has a sibling moved into your student鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥攕ometimes what you mean to say isn鈥檛 always what the other person hears. It鈥檚 important to ask for clarification throughout the conversation to make sure everyone is on the same page. 

• If an agreement isn鈥檛 possible, allow for multiple truths. Try to see things from your student鈥檚 perspective and express your side using your perspective.

• If you鈥檙e 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鈥檙e free on campus or locally with most insurance plans). 

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

6. Prepare for winter

欧美口爆视频 winters can be unpredictable, so it鈥檚 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鈥檙e at home, there are resources available to help. 

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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 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 欧美口爆视频 Boulder, 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 

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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鈥檙e concerned about your student, gently share what you鈥檝e noticed and your desire to help. It can be helpful to provide concrete examples of behaviors that you鈥檝e noticed. For instance, you may say 鈥淚鈥檝e noticed you seem unhappy lately鈥� or 鈥淚鈥檝e noticed that you haven鈥檛 been spending as much time with your friends as you used to.鈥� Acknowledging their distress can help open the door for conversation. 

3. Ask the question

Don鈥檛 be afraid to ask your student directly about suicide or self-harm. Contrary to what we may think, talking about suicide directly isn鈥檛 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 鈥淚鈥檓 asking because I care. Are you thinking about suicide?鈥� If they aren鈥檛, they鈥檒l let you know. Asking students, even if they aren鈥檛 thinking about suicide lets them know that it鈥檚 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鈥檚 important to understand your student鈥檚 pain and what they鈥檙e 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 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. 

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鈥檚 Talk
If your student is not currently suicidal but may be struggling, Let鈥檚 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鈥檛 Ignore It
Learn about options for confidential reporting, referrals and support. If something feels off, it probably is. Don鈥檛 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鈥檛 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. 

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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鈥檚 interests, values and skills takes time. Remember, it鈥檚 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 欧美口爆视频 Boulder 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.

• is a simple self-reflection tool that helps clarify your student鈥檚 values and highlights what鈥檚 most important to them.

• SparkPath Challenge Cards can help your student identify the problem(s) they鈥檙e motivated to solve. 

Exploring majors and careers  

Your student鈥檚 choice of major doesn鈥檛 have to dictate their future career鈥攕ome 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 欧美口爆视频 Boulder 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鈥檚 academic journey to learn how it influenced them professionally. Your student can also connect with other Buffs in the majors they鈥檙e 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鈥檚 Advising Help Lab: While this doesn鈥檛 replace appointments, Ralphie鈥檚 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鈥檚 great. If not, that鈥檚 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. 

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Sexual assault disproportionately affects young adults and can have major impacts on their well-being and ability to achieve their educational goals. 欧美口爆视频 Boulder has prevention programs and support resources available to support our university community.  

It鈥檚 also important to know that families play a significant role in helping students learn about these issues, develop healthy relationship patterns and provide support.   

Here are a few things everyone should know about sexual assault and tips for starting a conversation with your student. 

Consent is key

欧美口爆视频 has an affirmative consent standard 

Consent isn鈥檛 simply something a student gives or gets during a sexual encounter. Instead, it鈥檚 important to help them understand that consent is a mutual understanding and agreement that people arrive at together before and while engaging in any sexual activity. Consent includes words or actions (non-verbal and body language) that communicate a clear willingness and permission for sexual contact. 

It鈥檚 also important to know that any student who is incapacitated by alcohol, drugs or for other reasons like sleep, injury or disability cannot give consent, regardless of what they are saying or doing. Incapacitation is a state where someone cannot make a reasonable, rational decision because they lack the capacity to understand the 鈥渨ho, what, where, when or why鈥� of a sexual interaction. 

  Learn more about consent 

Setting boundaries is a skill 

Remind your student that consent is an ongoing agreement, and people can change their minds or withdraw consent at any time during sexual activities. Helping students refine their skills and set boundaries can help ensure that they are able to communicate those boundaries with others and respect a partner鈥檚 boundaries. 

It鈥檚 important to talk to your student about how they can stay in tune with a partner鈥檚 experience. Encourage them to check in with the other person before initiating any sexual behavior or when changing activities. Similarly, it鈥檚 important to help your student learn to identify behaviors that match their own desires and boundaries versus behaviors that do not.  

Share accurate information

Sexual assault prevention is a community effort 

When talking to your student about sexual assault prevention, it鈥檚 important to avoid recommending actions that place blame on the person who could experience an assault. Instead, have your student focus on making environments more difficult for bad actors to act badly. They can do this by looking out for others, building friend groups that keep each other safe and accountable, intervening when something feels off and standing up to negative peer pressure. These strategies can help students build safer communities because it creates a culture where people are expected to treat each other well and respect the wishes of others. 

Sexual assault can include a wide range of experiences 

Sexual assault includes any unwanted sexual contact or behaviors that a person did not or was not able to consent to.  

Sexual assault can include, but is not limited to, the following:   

• Unwanted penetration or contact, including vaginal, anal or oral sex (this includes penetration by an object or another person鈥檚 body part) 
• Unwanted touching of private body parts (e.g., butt, breasts, genitals)  

Keep in mind that sexual assault can also include attempted assault using any of the methods listed above. Additional forms of sexual and relationship harm include sexual harassment, exploitation (e.g., sharing nudes, videotaping sexual acts without consent, etc.), as well as intimate partner abuse such as dating violence and stalking. 

  Learn more about sexual misconduct  

Tips for talking to your student

While sexual assault can be a difficult subject to broach, having conversations can help your student identify problematic situations, support their friends and navigate relationships in a healthy way. Here are some tips to help you talk with your student about sexual assault and other forms of relationship harm. 

Weave it into routine conversations 

Look for opportunities to discuss sex, dating and healthy communication as part of your regular interactions. Be sure to discuss how cultural expectations around gender, religion, pornography and more, might influence your student鈥檚 perceptions about what is typical behavior.  

When you check in with your student, ask about their new friends and relationships. If they open up, encourage them to explore their own beliefs and values about what they want from potential partners and their dating experiences. If they talk about a friend鈥檚 relationship or things that they are seeing in college, that can also open the door to a conversation. 

Explore red flags together

Encourage your student to think through red flags that may be warning signs of a potential sexual assault and abuse in a relationship. Red flags can include someone disregarding others鈥� boundaries, frequently not listening to others, being persistent about pursuing sex with someone who seems reluctant, hitting on the drunkest person at a party or trying to get someone alone or away from their friends at a party. Remind your student that most people understand boundaries, consent and respectful behavior, and some people may choose to disregard others鈥� needs. It鈥檚 important for students to recognize problematic behaviors in those around them, even when it鈥檚 someone they like or are friends with. 

  Learn more about drug-facilitated sexual assault  

Encourage your student to look out for others 

If something feels weird or wrong, it probably is. If your student sees a situation where someone seems uncomfortable or unsafe, encourage them to find a way to check on that person or get them out of the situation. Remind your student that it鈥檚 okay to make up an excuse to interject or disrupt an uncomfortable or problematic situation. Bystanders are particularly important in situations where someone is being pursued sexually because of their level of intoxication, or if a person has been intentionally drugged in an attempt to facilitate sexual assault.  

  Learn more about bystander strategies  

Share support resources 

Resources are available for students who have experienced sexual assault, want to support a friend or want to learn more about sexual assault prevention. Students often go to friends first if something bad happens, and they may reach out to family members for help. Having the skills to respond effectively without imposing blame or judgment is important to keep in mind. 

Here are some support resources that can help your student. 

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
There may be times when your student wants to speak confidentially or hypothetically about sexual misconduct, sexual assault, intimate partner abuse, stalking, discrimination or harassment. OVA is a free and confidential resource staffed by professional advocate counselors that support students through traumatic or life-changing events. They offer short-term trauma-focused counseling, advocacy and more. OVA is also a great resource to help students support a friend or partner who has been impacted by sexual assault.  

*Confidential resource

Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC)
OIEC implements and enforces university policies around sexual assault, intimate partner abuse and stalking, and other forms of sexual misconduct. If you or someone you know at 欧美口爆视频 has been impacted, reports can be filed online. Anonymous reporting is an option as well. 

OIEC also provides prevention education and workshops about sex and consent, bystander intervention and microaggressions. 

Don't Ignore It
Explore your options for seeking confidential support, reporting concerns and learning skills for helping others. If something seems off, it probably is鈥攄on't ignore it. 

Support for international students, staff and faculty

Individuals who have experienced certain crimes, such as sexual assault or domestic violence, may be eligible for U.S. immigration relief through the or , regardless of their immigration status. Please speak with an immigration attorney or a non-profit organization that assists immigrants to learn more about the eligibility requirements, application process, and timeline.  

Mandatory reporting policy 

All university employees who have the authority to hire, promote, discipline, evaluate, grade, formally advise or direct faculty, staff or students are considered "responsible employees" and are required to report alleged misconduct to the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC). This includes, but is not limited to resident advisors, teaching assistants, professors, graduate instructors, academic advisors, coaches or other university employees with supervisory authority. 

Any sexual misconduct, intimate partner abuse (including dating and domestic violence), stalking, protected-class discrimination or harassment, or related retaliation disclosed to a responsible employee must be reported to OIEC. The person impacted has the choice about if and how they want to proceed. Reporting is required to help ensure that people understand their rights and options and the resources available. 

*Note: Confidential campus resources are exempt from 欧美口爆视频 Boulder鈥檚 mandatory reporting policy, including the Office of Victim Assistance (OVA), Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS), Athletics Phycological Health and Performance (PHP), Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) and Ombuds. 

  Learn more about mandatory reporting 

  Read more family health and wellness articles 

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Hi Buff families,  

We are about halfway through the fall semester now and time seems to be flying by! Our Buffs have had many occasions to create meaningful moments so far this season, and this weekend brings another opportunity to make memories with friends and family. 

Family Weekend is finally here, and this program is one of my favorite fall traditions at 欧美口爆视频 Boulder. Visiting campus is a great way to experience aspects of your student鈥檚 life. Ask your Buff to give you their own tour of campus鈥攖hey can show you where their classes are, where they like to relax and hang out, and their top places to eat. Be sure to check out some of our extraordinary dining options and try your student鈥檚 favorite dishes! 

欧美口爆视频 Boulder is one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country, and it is especially gorgeous this time of the year. There are many spots, both indoors and outdoors, that offer the perfect setting for selfies and family photos. Here are some recommendations:

• The Farrand Field archway with the Flatirons in the background

• The new 鈥淪ko Buffs鈥� wall on the second floor of the Center for Community (C4C)

• The Ralphie statue in front of Folsom Field

• The top-floor terrace of the Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE) 

While you are here, I encourage you to participate in activities that are exclusive to our campus. The annual will be Friday, Oct. 25, featuring a variety of activities from Health and Wellness departments and campus partners. Fiske Planetarium has a schedule of immersive experiences during Family Weekend. Families can also visit the 欧美口爆视频 Art Museum and 欧美口爆视频 Museum of Natural History for free, enjoy some friendly competition at and cheer on the Buffs at the pep rally.   

I know families are not able to attend Family Weekend, and if that is the case, I hope you can visit your Buff sometime this semester. Whether you will be here or not this weekend, I encourage you to check in with your student. Ask them about their classes, their roommates and friends, what they are involved in this semester and what they like to do outside of class. 

For those of you who will be in Boulder this weekend, I look forward to being in community with you. I will be attending the Lunch on the Lawn event and Pearl Street Stampede on Friday, Oct. 25, and the football game on Saturday, Oct. 26. If you see me around, please stop and say hi!  

Warmly,    
Dr. D鈥橝ndra Mull   
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

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Fall has arrived in Boulder! You can encourage your student to celebrate the change of season, meet new people and explore the city with these indoor and outdoor activities including football, food, crafts, entertainment and more.  

欧美口爆视频 Buffs football

Nothing says fall like college football! There are football-related events open to students, families and the general public that will have everyone brimming with school spirit before cheering on the Buffs at any of the remaining .  

• Students can stop by the Student Game Day Huddle on Farrand Field before most home games. There will be free food, giveaways, music and they can even be recognized as the Student Fan of the Game. 

• Downtown Boulder hosts the the night before each home game and features the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Spirit Squad, coaches, players and more! Stampedes are open to students, families and the public. 

Get outside

Fall is the perfect time to explore the outdoors in and around Boulder as the weather cools off and the leaves begin to change. Encourage your student to take a break from studying to get outside and take in the crisp fall air and changing colors.

• Boulder has suitable for all ages and abilities. Students can enjoy a great workout and take in Boulder鈥檚 incredible mountain scenery at the same time. 

• If your student wants to experience the outdoors in a more structured setting, Outdoor Pursuits offers a variety of trips and classes for all experience levels, from hiking to rock climbing to fly fishing. 

• Students can view the fall colors from , or take a drive on the for a glimpse of changing leaves. 欧美口爆视频 offers several transportation options that students can take advantage of to explore off campus. 

Events on campus

Your student doesn鈥檛 have to leave campus to enjoy fall-themed events! Encourage them to check out these weekly and monthly events on campus. 

• Your student can mingle with fellow Buffs while making fall-themed crafts together at weekly DIY Nights! From school spirit pennants to candle holders to pumpkin-themed crafts, they鈥檒l leave with a cool craft they can keep for years and meet new friends at the same time. 

• Students can enjoy late night fun at Buffalo Nites events where they鈥檒l bowl at The Connection, create painted masterpieces and more.

• If your student loves classic movies on the big screen, they can stop by CHEM 140 for Program Council鈥檚 Friday Night Film Series, held weekly all fall.  

• Students can indulge in some tasty fall treats and learn more about other student organizations on campus at this . 

Events around Boulder

Students can get outside and explore the city of Boulder at these fun events downtown, just a short walk from campus.

• Students can shop for fresh produce and other goods at the , held on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. through the end of November.  

• featuring arts and entertainment, live music, fitness events and more. Encourage your student to check the calendar for daily, monthly and seasonal events. 

Halloween fun

If your student loves Halloween, there are Halloween-specific events on campus through October. They can check out these events as well as the Student Affairs events calendar for more. 

• : Thursday, Oct. 24 

• : Monday, Oct. 28 through Wednesday, Oct. 30  

• : Tuesday, Oct. 29

• : Thursday, Oct. 31

• : Friday, Nov. 1 

Encourage your student to check out more ways to get involved from the Division of Student Affairs. They can stay connected to campus events by downloading the 欧美口爆视频 Boulder Life app or following @欧美口爆视频BoulderLife on , and . 

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