It can be challenging to talk with people who do not share your point of view. However, talking through differences is an essential skill that can build trust and strengthen relationships. Acknowledging other’s perspectives can allow us to explore differing opinions, learn and grow.  

Here are some ways to turn a difficult conversation into a thoughtful discussion. 

Approach the conversation with an open mind 

Living, learning and working on a college campus offers many opportunities to explore new ideas. We can empower ourselves to think critically about different points of view when we listen with authentic curiosity and give space for others to express their thoughts and opinions.   

Start by recognizing that our cultural backgrounds and life experiences shape our worldviews. Work to understand how others’ beliefs and ideas have been formed and reflect on how you came to hold your attitudes and opinions.   

Prioritize listening 

In a dialogue, people often formulate their response while the other person is talking instead of fully paying attention to what’s being said. When trying to have a thoughtful conversation with someone, the goal should not be to debunk each other’s points or bombard someone with facts or opinions.  

Instead of listening to respond, try listening to understand. Setting the intention to listen will help you approach the conversation more openly rather than coming to it with set points and arguments.  

Give the person you are talking to your full attention when they are speaking. Ask clarifying questions and be genuine when inviting them to share more. This practice helps us become better communicators and makes others feel heard, which is vital for open conversations. 

Ask them to reciprocate these actions when it is your turn to speak. We can create a space to share our views without judgment or jumping to conclusions. When we offer space to others, it helps them understand us in return. 

Practice effective communication strategies 

Having good communication skills can help direct the conversation in a healthy way. Here are skills to use when talking with someone with a different perspective:  

• Be mindful. Our passion for a topic may bring up strong feelings— we are only in control of what we say and how we say it, so our tone and demeanor matter. Arguing may feel satisfying, but it’s often an ineffective communication tool.
• Ask open-ended questions. Get curious about where the other person is coming from and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of how the person has come to their perspective.  
• Use reflections to clarify. Reflecting back to the person our understanding of what we think they are sharing can allow them to explain their meaning and correct misinterpretations. We don’t have to agree with someone to show that we are working to understand them. 
• Acknowledge different perspectives. Whether we agree with someone’s position or not, we can acknowledge or affirm what is important to them and the values that form their perspective. Recognizing a shared value (such as caring for others, autonomy, honesty or integrity) that underlies a viewpoint can be a way of bridging differences. 

Before we share our perspective, we can summarize our understanding of where the other person is coming from. We can avoid dismissing them by using “and”—not “but”—when offering our ideas or opinions. For example, we might say, “I hear where you are coming from, and I see it differently. From my perspective...” This transition may help avoid putting the other person on the defensive.  

We can always leave space to revisit an issue and end with an appreciation for the person willing to talk things through. 

Find support 

ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder offers programs and spaces for people to share their perspectives and learn skills to have thoughtful conversations. 

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR) 
SCCR helps students develop skills for having challenging conversations through conflict coaching, mediation and consultation services. 

Center for Inclusion & Social Change (CISC) 
CISC offers various events, programs and groups where students, faculty and staff can join fellow Buffs to share their experiences and learn from others in a safe space. 

Center for Student Involvement (CSI) 
CSI offers resources for student activism and guidance for Buffs looking to get more involved in civic engagement.  

ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Student Government (ŷ���ڱ���ƵSG) 
ŷ���ڱ���ƵSG, the official governing and representative body of the student population, provides a space for Buffs to bring attention to and respectfully discuss issues they are passionate about. 

Office of Institutional Equity & Compliance (OIEC)  
OIEC offers skills-based workshops for students, faculty and staff to effectively work across differences and build healthy workplaces, classrooms and relationships. 

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Dating can be enjoyable and budget friendly. Here are some date ideas to try this semester. 

Compete for fun  

Test your skills and make new memories with some friendly competition. 

• Try bowling, billiards, ping pong or video games for a fun and cheap date night at The Connection.  

• Check out the Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge to play PC games or games on Nintendo Switch, PS5 or Xbox. Current ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder students receive a free 10-day pass when they visit the gaming lounge for the first time, or you can review hourly rates and passes to the gaming lounge. 

• Plan a board game night—you can check out games for free at The Connection or your residence hall front desk. 

Catch a free movie   

Program Council screens free movies for students every Friday at 8 p.m. in Chem 140. Upcoming film screenings include Madea: Diary of a Mad Black Woman on Feb. 21 and Do the Right Thing on Feb. 28. 

Try something new together  

Review upcoming student events and pick out something new to try at no cost. Here are a few things that are coming up this month: 

• Learn a new recipe at Ralphie's Cooking Basics 

• Test your knowledge at  

• Try different workouts at The Rec’s Free Friday Power Hour 

• Craft at DIY Nights 

Review all upcoming student events, and follow to learn more throughout the semester. 

Cheer on the Buffs  

Many ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Athletics events offer free entry for students. ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ are free for students to attend with their Buff OneCard. You can claim tickets to ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ .  

Dine out in Boulder  

Review Downtown Boulder’s to find low-cost places to get lunch or dinner near Pearl Street. 

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It's time to start thinking about your living arrangements for next year. Whether you're moving off campus for the first time or are familiar with the Boulder/Denver region, consider these tips from Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. 

Explore different options  

Research different neighborhoods and housing options to find what works for you. Popular Boulder neighborhood areas for students include The Hill, Martin Acres, East Aurora, Goss Grove and North Boulder.  Students may want to consider researching properties in neighboring communities such as Longmont, Superior, Louisville or Lafayette that have bus routes to campus. 

• Create a budget that includes rent, utilities, internet and other expenses to determine what you can afford.
• Look at public transportation options.   
• Check out the crime rates.
• Ask other students about their experiences living in their neighborhoods.  

Use to filter available properties by neighborhood and city, price and more. This resource also helps in finding roommates. 

Consider transportation needs 

As you explore different neighborhoods and cities/communities, you can also research your potential commute to campus by reviewing public transportation options.  

Many students ride the bus for free with their Buff OneCard. has routes that serve all of Boulder and nearby communities.  

Attend the Spring Off-Campus Housing Fair  

Stop by the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom on Feb. 20 and explore options at the . Property managers, city offices and vendors will attend, and you can ask questions and explore more resources related to living in Boulder. There are always lots of free giveaways and food! 

Learn about city ordinances  

As you prepare to live off campus, familiarize yourself with local laws to avoid tickets and other consequences.   

• Review the .
• Learn about the new chronic nuisance ordinance that went into effect Sept. 7, 2024, and other city ordinances.
• Keep noise levels within prescribed limits for residential areas.
• Never leave trash in your yard and use trash receptacles appropriately (especially if you live in a neighborhood that requires bear-resistant trash containers like the Hill).
• Register your parties with Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. If a neighbor makes a noise complaint about your address, Boulder Police will notify you and issue a warning—rather than an expensive ticket. This warning gives you 20 minutes to shut down the party before police are dispatched to your house or apartment and can help you avoid a noise or nuisance ticket.  

Get legal advice   

A lease is a legal contract that students should understand before signing. Before signing a lease, you can with attorney Bruce Sarbaugh through Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations for a free lease review before signing. Students can also get free legal advice on other rental concerns, from lease agreements to landlord disputes.  

Student Legal Services also provides free lease reviews and landlord/tenant consultations. Learn more about scheduling an appointment.  

Find support 

Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations offers opportunities and resources to students living off campus. With students who are seeking housing, they help educate them on their rights and responsibilities as tenants and assist students in resolving landlord/tenant problems and/or roommate conflicts. Stop by their office in UMC 313 or email och@colorado.edu to get insights from a neighborhood ambassador for advice on living in Boulder.     

Beyond Campus Buffs also provides support for first-year students living off campus and all commuter students. Stop by the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102 to find out more. 

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Biking to campus is a great way to stay active and be eco-friendly, even in winter. Whether you’re a student, faculty or staff member, you can join the Boulder community for on Feb. 14 and ride to campus. Stop by the Rec Center Plaza from 7-9 a.m. for hot beverages, snacks and swag.  

Whether you participate in Winter Bike to Work Day or not, here are tips for biking this winter. 

Register and protect your bike

If you bring a bike to campus, register it with the Environmental Center. This includes free maintenance help at two campus bike stations. It also helps police track down your bike if it’s stolen.   

On campus, bicycles must be parked in bicycle parking racks or secure bike shelters. 96% of bikes stolen on campus had a cable lock used or no lock. Instead, park your bike using a high-quality U-lock to keep it safe. Ensure the lock goes through your bike's frame, not the front wheel. Thieves can easily remove a front wheel and take the rest of your bike.   

If you only have a cable lock, you can swap it for a free U-lock at one of the bike stations during business hours. 

Plan for the elements

ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ weather changes quickly, so check the forecast and consider safety before heading out. 

Wear layers and choose reflective or brightly colored clothing to be seen when it’s dark. The city of Boulder also requires bikes to have lights on the front and back for night riding. Wear shoes with a good grip on your pedals and always wear a helmet. Learn more . 

Additionally, make a backup plan for bad weather:  

• Ride with a bike and your Buff OneCard. 
• Download the ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ NightRide app for free late-night transportation within Boulder city limits.
• Use a ride-share service or ask someone to pick you up.   

ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder also offers a guaranteed ride home to staff and faculty who commute by bike and have unexpected changes to their schedule. 

Stay up to date

, a newsletter for ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ bicyclists. You’ll receive updates on bike programs, events, road upgrades and construction, and tips.

Prepare for your ride

Plan your route by reviewing the . If you’re riding in snowy weather, be mindful of snow in bike lanes and roads. Often, multi-use paths are cleared first, so consider traveling on the paths and limiting road use on snowy days. Try not to brake on slick or bumpy surfaces—stay focused and relaxed to maintain control of your bike. 

If you notice issues with your bike, have a bike mechanic check it out. Students, staff and faculty with registered bikes can visit the bike mechanics at the TLC and Folsom bike stations.  

To learn even more about bike repair and maintenance, sign up for the or explore this slide show about .  

Know the rules

As a cyclist, you have responsibilities similar to those of motorists. Practice safety tips and follow the rules to avoid a citation.  

• Always stay on the right side of bike paths and bike lanes.
• Yield to pedestrians when riding your bike.
• Don’t wear headphones or ear buds when riding—this is illegal for cyclists.
• Pay attention to signage on bike paths and throughout campus for dismount zones, where bike riding is prohibited.
• Ride slowly around pedestrians and give them space. Pass on the left and ring your bell or say “on your left.”
• Signal your turns, just as you do when driving a car. A left arm straight out signals a left turn, and a right arm straight out signals a right turn.
• Ensure you have a mounted front light and rear red reflector—this is required when riding between dusk and dawn.
• Don’t drink and ride. ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ’s DUI statute includes bicycles under its definition of “vehicle.” You can get a DUI for biking under the influence. 

Find support

Learn more about biking and transportation options to get around campus sustainably. 

• Semester bike rentals: Students have the option to rent a bike for a semester at a low price through the Environmental Center.
• : Students can sign up with BCycle for a free ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder Student Pass, with access to unlimited e-bike rides for an entire year. 
• Classes and clinics: The Environmental Center offers a variety of bicycle classes and clinics to improve your skills and knowledge of bikes and bike riding. 
• Report a stolen bike: Report stolen bikes to Bike Index and either the ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Police Department or Boulder Police for the best chance of recovery. 
• Sustainable Buffs: Join the Sustainable Buffs Community! Get involved with sustainability and climate action at ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder and learn how you can add more sustainable actions to every day.  

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As a Transfer Buff, you belong to ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder's Transfer Student Community, which offers events, resources and support for a smooth transition. Here are tips to make the most of your first semester here. 

1. Attend transfer student events  

Each semester features events for transfer students to meet new people and get involved. Check out other student events, too! Sign up for the Transfer Buffs newsletter for updates. 

2. Meet with a transfer peer mentor  

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

3. Get involved on campus  

Join student organizations through or start your 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, follow @ŷ���ڱ���ƵBoulderLife on , and , and download the ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder Life app. 

4. Find support 

Numerous resources are available to help you with your overall well-being. Reach out to the Transfer Student Community for assistance. 

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Living with roommates, whether in the residence halls or off campus, can be a great experience. It may also bring new challenges and responsibilities. This semester might be the first time you’ve had to share space or live with someone you’ve never met.  

While many Buffs get along with their roommates, disagreements can happen. This is normal and working through conflict often leads to growth and stronger relationships. Here are some tips for creating a positive living environment and navigating conflict if it comes up. 

1. Get to know your roommate 

Seek out things you and your roommate have in common and allow space for differences. Even if you already know your roommate well, take time to talk about the upcoming semester and your routines.   

Learn each other’s schedules to be mindful and respectful of each person’s needs. For example, you may have an early class and prefer to go to bed early, while your roommate may work a late schedule and want to sleep in. Communication is key to understanding each other’s habits, schedules and preferences.   

2. Set ground rules together 

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

• Guests: Are you okay with overnight guests? Are there times of the day or evening you prefer not to have guests over?
• Chores: Who’s responsible for cleaning common areas or taking out the trash, and how often? Will you set up a schedule for completing chores?
• Shared belongings: What items in your space will be shared (electronics, appliances, supplies, food, etc.)? Are there certain items that you prefer not to be shared?
• Finances: How will bills be divided and paid if you live off campus and are responsible for rent and utilities?  

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

3. Be open to compromise  

During your discussion, there might be preferences between you and your roommate that could cause conflict or topics that you don't initially agree on. However, you may also find that you can compromise on issues that aren’t as important.    

For example, if you like to study on Friday afternoons and your roommate likes to invite friends over at the end of the week, you could study at the library instead of asking for quiet hours. Finding areas of compromise and respecting each other’s preferences can help you both feel more comfortable in your living environment.   

4. Respect each other’s space and belongings 

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

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

5. Address issues quickly and in person  

It’s best to address roommate issues quickly before they fester. Discuss any important topics or reminders with your 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.   

Instead, give yourself time to think through how you can express your needs before approaching your roommate. Using “I” statements to describe how the situation makes you 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.”   

Remember that respect goes both ways. Listen for understanding and ask follow-up questions during the conversation. Resist the urge to formulate a response to what the other person is saying while they’re speaking. Instead, focus on the emotions, issues and reasoning behind what your roommate says to help find a solution. 

If you are nervous about talking with your roommate, connect with your RA or Conflict Resolution to help mediate the conversation. Remember that conflict can be a good thing. Even though it may seem daunting, talking it through can lead to a healthier relationship with your new roommate.  

6. Find support 

Students have access to a variety of resources to help resolve roommate conflicts. Contact Student Support and Case Management or Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution for guidance if you're ever concerned about your roommate.   

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

Residence Life 
Residence Life helps students who live on campus build community, engage in leadership opportunities and make the most of their stay in the residence halls. They offer a variety of events, tutoring services, employment opportunities and more.  

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

Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations  
Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations is here to help students with all aspects of living off campus. This includes searching for an apartment or roommate, understanding Boulder housing options, providing free lease reviews with our staff attorney, navigating roommate disagreements, understanding Boulder ordinances and advocating for tenant rights. 

Peer Wellness Coaching 
Peer wellness coaches provide peer-to-peer support and are available to meet with students living on or off campus. They can help you navigate concerns related to roommates, relationships, stress, finances and more. Peer wellness coaches can also help you set goals, connect with other resources and create self-care plans.  

Center for Inclusion and Social Change  
The Center for Inclusion and Social Change works with LGBTQ+ students living on and off campus. They can provide information on gender-inclusive residence hall programs, gender-neutral facilities and more. Their office can also help students find inclusive housing and roommates who will be welcoming and supportive.  

Disability Services 
Disability Services works with University Housing to provide reasonable on-campus housing and dining accommodations for students with disabilities. Students interested in obtaining housing or dining accommodations must register with Disability Services and provide documentation before they can submit a new accommodations request.  

Student Legal Services  
Student Legal Services helps students resolve or minimize their legal situations so they can focus on school. Consultations about landlord/tenant matters are free. Representation for other legal issues is available for a fraction of the cost of a private attorney to all ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder students paying student activity fees. 

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Whether you live two or 20 miles from campus, here are some tips to help you navigate winter weather and the spring semester.      

Explore transportation options  

All enrolled ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ students can use their Buff OneCard to access Learn more about or near you. Download the Transit app for routes and real-time transit information to stay informed if there are delays or cancellations due to weather.   

With many sunny and warm days during ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ winters, commuting by bike can also be an option for getting around campus and Boulder. If you plan to use your bike on campus, register it at one of the bike stations. Registering your bike gives you free access to the campus bike stations, including bike maintenance assistance. Boulder's bike-sharing program, , offers electric assist bikes around town, including locations near many bus stops. As a student, you get a free BCycle membership through the Environmental Center—learn more about activating your membership.  

Know about weather closures or delays  

Our campus may experience delays or closures due to inclement weather. Students receive email notifications through the , and you can add your phone number in Buff Portal to by text message.  

Navigating transportation issues as a commuting student can occasionally interfere with class schedules. If you're delayed, contact your professors as soon as you know you’ll be late or miss class. Explain your situation and ask about ways to make up for missed work. 

Stay safe driving in snowy conditions   

Road safety is crucial as winter approaches, especially in snowy and icy conditions. If you’re driving to campus, here are some tips to stay safe:

• Stay informed: Check weather and traffic reports before leaving and consider alternative routes if necessary. If you’re traveling on major highways or interstates, for updates on road closures and other changes.
• Slow down: Roads can be slippery, so give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. Reducing speed increases your control on icy patches.
• Keep your distance: Allow more space between your vehicle and others as braking distances increase on slick roads.
• Pack an emergency kit: Include items like blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables and non-perishable snacks in case of unexpected delays. 

Check out campus dining options  

With 16 on-campus dining locations, you have many options for meals or snacks between classes. Download the Nutrislice app or use the website to view menus and filter for allergens, dietary restrictions and preferences.   

On-campus dining locations accept Campus Cash and credit or debit cards. Block Meal Plans are available with different numbers of meals per semester to all students living off campus and in Bear Creek or Graduate and Family Housing.    

For more tips, review our complete guide to eating on campus.  

Join the Beyond Campus Buffs community  

Depending on your schedule, you may have downtime between classes or other commitments on campus. Beyond Campus Buffs offers monthly events and resources for undergraduate students living off campus.  

The Commuter Lounge in the University Memorial Center (UMC) offers students who travel to campus access to free amenities, including: 

• Free coffee
• Printing
• Refrigerator access
• Microwave access
• Lockers
• Lounge space   

The lounge is also staffed by beyond campus advisors. Beyond campus advisors are students who have experience commuting to campus and are available to answer questions.   

First-year students can access the lounge automatically. If you’re a returning undergraduate commuter, to gain access to the lounge and learn about events for commuter students. The lounge is available to undergraduate students only.  

Want to learn more about student life and getting involved on campus? Download the ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder Life app and follow @ŷ���ڱ���ƵBoulderLife on , and  

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Staying fueled is an essential part of being a successful college student. Campus Dining Services makes it easy for students to find nutritious options with 16 convenient locations across campus and a wide range of breakfast, lunch and dinner options, as well as snacks on the go. 

Dining Centers  

There are three dining centers on campus that offer a wide range of cuisines in an all-you-care-to-eat setting. 

Center for Community (C4C): This award-winning dining center offers food from around the world, including eight micro-restaurants, a build-your-own salad and deli bar, dessert station and more. The Black Coats station features weekly specials like pho, ramen and meals highlighting local ingredients. Lines can get long, so get there early or try stopping by outside of peak hours.  

Sewall Dining Center: Located inside Sewall Hall on the north side of campus (near the Rec Center, Macky Auditorium and Norlin Library), Sewall serves multicultural meals, traditional comfort food and items hot off the grill.     

Village Center Dining: Village Center Dining in Williams Village offers globally and locally inspired meals at its five micro-restaurants. Highlights include all-day waffle and yogurt bars, freshly made smoothies at Toast, house-made curries at Curry Road and street tacos at the Grange. 

Grab-n-gos  

Grab-n-go locations are great for students who are in a hurry and need a quick snack or meal but may not have time to visit the dining center.

The Alley @ Farrand: The Alley @ Farrand’s menu, which includes many options, features made-to-order burgers, ready-made pizzas and daily lunch specials, with a wide variety of freshly made sides and snacks.   

ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ on the Run: Located in the C4C, ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ on the Run gets you on your way with made-to-order sandwiches, salads, sushi and both hot and cold food items.   

Libby on the Run: This location specializes in gluten, wheat, peanut and tree nut free options. They are open for breakfast and lunch and serve items such as breakfast bowls, soup, salad and hot entrees. 

Village Market Grab-n-go: Visit this location for sandwiches, salads, assorted chips and beverages.

Restaurants and Cafes  

Restaurants and cafes on campus serve specialty foods and drinks, snacks and on-the-go options.  

Alferd Packer Grill: Centrally located on the first floor of the UMC, this is a great place to stop for a freshly made breakfast, lunch or dinner, and they even accept meal plans. And it’s named after !  

SEEC Cafe: Located on east campus in the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community, the SEEC Cafe serves fresh-brewed and sustainably sourced coffee and teas, breakfast and lunch items such as freshly made salads, grain and noodle bowls, along with daily specials and house-made soups. There is also a retail section with snacks, beverages and health necessities.  

Starbucks: You don’t even have to leave campus to get your favorite Starbucks drink or treat! Conveniently located at the UMC, our full-service Starbucks offers hot and iced beverages, blended coffees, pastries, on-the-go meal options, snacks, whole beans and Starbucks merchandise. Starbucks rewards can be earned, but not redeemed, at this location. 

WeatherTech Cafe and Bakery: Located in the C4C near the Buff OneCard office, this restaurant serves made-to-order pizzas, paninis and sandwiches. Enjoy responsibly sourced specialty coffees and teas with our homemade pastries and cookies, including vegan and gluten-free options. Cozy up to the center fireplace on a cold day or enjoy the sun on the outdoor patio. 

Retail Markets  

Purchase snacks, convenience items, bottled beverages and more at the retail markets on campus. 

Farrand Market: Stop by for an assortment of snacks, convenience items and drinks at this shop inside Farrand Hall. Farrand Market is open late (until 11 p.m.) and serves hot food items like fries, chicken bites and wings to satisfy your late-night cravings.   

Kittredge Market: Located in the north wing of Kittredge Central, Kittredge Market offers a full-service espresso and tea bar, on-the-go breakfast and lunch options and a general market with snacks, drinks and essentials.   

Sewall Market: Sewall Market is a convenience store on the north end of campus, within Sewall Hall, offering bottled beverages, hot coffee, snacks, sandwiches, salads, ice cream and other student essentials.   

UMC Market: Stop by the UMC for pre-made sandwiches, fruit and other snacks on-the-go. 

Village Market: Located in the Village Center in Williams Village, this market offers a great selection of pre-made sandwiches, fruit, snacks, beverages, essentials and even ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ apparel! You can also enjoy your favorite Starbucks drink.  

Dietary accommodations  

Campus Dining Services strives to meet the dietary needs of our ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder community at all locations. We accommodate for A9 allergens and diets including vegan/vegetarian, Halal and Kosher, and continuously adjust menus to provide the best dining experience possible for those who use our facilities. 

Students can use to view daily menus, nutritional information, ingredients and allergy information for dining locations on campus. If you have food allergies or intolerances or are just looking to modify your diet, it can be helpful to meet with a dietitian. Lisa Whalen, RDN, is a registered dietitian for Campus Dining Services and provides free consultations to students to help navigate food options, learn about ingredients, food sourcing and more. Email dining@colorado.edu to set up an appointment with Lisa. 

Paying for meals  

Students can access dining locations on campus using several different meal plans and payment options. Review which forms of payment are accepted at each location. 

• Meal plans: All students living in residence halls must have a meal plan, which includes a set number of meal swipes each week and Munch Money. Students living off campus can also purchase a Block Meal Plan. 

• Munch Money: Munch Money funds decline with each purchase and can be used at retail markets and cafes, or for guest meals at dining centers. 

• Campus Cash: Campus Cash works a lot like Munch Money; it can be added to your Buff OneCard and used to purchase full meals ($11.19 total) anywhere a meal plan is accepted and other retail items on campus. 

• Credit card, debit card or cash: Most dining locations accept credit and debit cards. Dining centers do not accept cash, but many of the restaurants, cafes and retail markets do. 

• Get Mobile: Download the Get Mobile app for or to use your phone to pay at any campus dining location. You can sign in to the app using your ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ IdentiKey and see your balances for your meal plan, Munch Money and Campus Cash. Simply click “Scan Card” to show your barcode to the cashier.  

Swipe It Forward  

Students can help fight food insecurity on campus by donating meal swipes (no more than one swipe per day per student) during the Swipe It Forward event Jan. 28-30. Make sure to tell the cashier that you’d like to donate! 

If you don’t have a meal plan but want to make a difference, . Students experiencing food insecurity can check out the Buff Pantry. 

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Boulder is a beautiful place to live with fun entertainment, great food and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re living in Boulder for the first time this winter or have been in town for a while, here are some tips for making the most of your time here.  

Enjoy outdoor activities

Boulder often has many warm and sunny days to enjoy the great outdoors, even during winter. Here are a few activities to try this season:

• Explore the Boulder Creek Path: Take a walk or bike ride on the to check out new parts of the city. Students can sign up for a free student pass with unlimited e-bike rides.
• Try hiking or snowshoeing: If you don’t have all the essential equipment, Outdoor Pursuits has snowshoes, winter hiking boots, trekking poles, insulated pants and jackets and more available for rent after Jan. 31.
• Go skiing: If you have an Ikon Pass, check out the ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Ski Bus Program for transportation to the mountains. 

Visit thrift stores for winter gear

Do you need to purchase items for winter? Whether you need a snow shovel, waterproof boots or a new winter coat, thrift stores are a great place to find reasonably priced goods. 

Boulder is home to many . Not only will you save money and find one-of-a-kind items, but shopping at thrift stores is a sustainable choice that can help the environment.   

Avoid tickets by shoveling your sidewalk 

In Boulder, residents must clear sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowstorm. Review your lease or check with your landlord to see who is responsible for snow removal. If you have any questions, contact Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations or Student Legal Services for a free lease review. 

Another reminder for winter in Boulder is to make sure your heat is kept at the temperature your lease designates, or above 55 degrees if it doesn’t designate a temperature, to prevent pipes from freezing.   

Support local businesses and get involved 

Get to know your neighbors and community on another level by attending local events and supporting local businesses. Check Downtown Boulder’s list for affordable and local dining options.   

If you have some free time this semester, volunteering is a great way to get more involved in your community. Volunteering allows you to meet new people, support a cause that matters to you and gain experience you can include on your resume. Connect with the Volunteer Resource Center to learn about opportunities.   

Be considerate of others  

We all play a part in the well-being of our community. Whether we realize it or not, our actions can sometimes affect those around us. For example, playing loud music at the end of a long day may help you relax, but it might also annoy your neighbors. Whether you’re in your neighborhood or other areas of Boulder, be considerate and thoughtful of those around you.  

• Get to know your neighbors. Wherever you live, take time to introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. Fill out and share contact information cards with your neighbors so you can keep in touch if anything comes up.
• Pay attention to noise levels. You could be ticketed for unreasonable noise at any time of day.
• Follow fireworks restrictions. Fireworks pose a significant fire risk and can cause substantial noise disruption to residential areas. The and prohibit possessing or discharging all fireworks, firecrackers or skyrockets.
• Register your party. Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations and the Boulder Police Department have partnered to provide a registration program that will give you a 20-minute warning call, instead of an immediate police dispatch, if your residence receives a noise complaint.    

To learn more about ordinances, avoiding citations and other helpful tips about living in Boulder, connect with Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. If you receive a citation or find yourself in legal trouble, Student Legal Services (SLS) can help. Visit SLS in UMC 311 or call 303-492-6813 to schedule an appointment.   

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Known as the campus “living room,” thousands of people visit the University Memorial Center (UMC) every day to eat, enjoy free activities and entertainment, study or just hang out. Here are some things to know about the UMC.  

1. There are lots of dining options  

From the Alferd Packer Restaurant & Grill to Starbucks, Infinitus Pie, Panda Express and Subway, the UMC has dining options for every taste.  

2. You can find your perfect study spot  

Whether you need to print a paper or you like a table to spread out on, the UMC has excellent places to study. Be sure to check out the fifth-floor rooftop patio for a study space with a great view!  

One great option for studying is the Student Engagement & Collaboration Area (SECA). Here you can find meeting rooms and lounge areas to work on group projects or be around others who are also working. And if you’re a student who commutes or lives off campus, check out the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102.  

3. You have access to a premier gaming lounge on campus

ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder has its own full-scale gaming space! Located on the first floor of the UMC, the Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge is outfitted with 17 Alienware gaming desktop stations, three Alienware gaming laptops, a varsity esports training area, a broadcast studio, console games and a tabletop game space. The gaming lounge is open to all ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Boulder students, staff and faculty and community members.   

4. It has bowling, billiards and more  

The Connection on the first floor of the UMC is a place to kick back, relax, have fun and meet new people. The space offers fun recreation options and amenities such as bowling, billiards, ping pong, video games and board games in a welcoming and open environment.    

Check The Connection’s website for information on tournaments, trivia nights, special events and more throughout the semester.  

5. The UMC is home to student resources

You will find many student-centered offices and services at the UMC. Whether you’re looking to get involved or need support, here are some of the resources you can find at the UMC: 

• Basic Needs Center and Buff Pantry
• Center for Student Involvement  
• Collegiate Recovery Community     
• ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ NightRide
• ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ Student Government 
•  
• Environmental Center  
• Fraternity & Sorority Life  
• Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations  
• Student Legal Services  
• Volunteer Resource Center 

Check the UMC building directory for a list of services, shops and spaces.    

Follow @ŷ���ڱ���ƵBoulderLife on , and to learn more about life on campus and how to get involved! 

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