Student Life

Campus coffee and tea shops to fuel your semester

Emily Sampl — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:00:22 +0000

Campus coffee and tea shops to fuel your semester Emily Sampl Tue, 08/26/2025 - 08:00

��ñ��’s campus is home to a variety of cozy coffee and tea spots that offer more than just a caffeine boost. Whether you're powering through a paper or catching up with friends, these campus cafés serve up good vibes, tasty snacks and the perfect atmosphere to keep you energized and inspired.

WeatherTech Cafe and Bakery

The C4C has many spaces and lounges for studying. Stop by the WeatherTech Cafe and Bakery on the first floor before your study session for specialty coffee and made-from-scratch pastries.

The Laughing Goat

The Laughing Goat at Norlin Library is located in the Norlin Commons. Enjoy espresso drinks, coffee, tea, sandwiches and snacks with tables inside and outside the library’s southeast entrance.

Fen's Cafe

Head inside the ATLAS Center for fresh, delicious and healthy Taiwanese street food, pastries, boba teas and coffee drinks. ATLAS has study rooms on the second floor.

Violet Peak

With locations in the Engineering Center, Koelbel and Wolf Law buildings on central campus and the Aerospace Engineering building on east campus, Violet Peak offers everything from coffee and espresso to smoothies and sandwiches.

Stingers Cafe

If you are on east campus, visit the Biotech Building for coffee, breakfast, salads and sandwiches.

SEEC Café

Enjoy a full-service espresso bar at this restaurant located at Research Park in the SEEC building.

Foolish Craig’s Too

Located in the Porter Biosciences building, Foolish Craig’s Too serves Boulder Organic Coffee and a selection of food items, including their award-winning bread made fresh daily in their bakery on Pearl Street.

Starbucks

One of the most popular places to grab a caffeinated beverage is Starbucks on the first floor of the UMC. It offers hot and iced drinks, blended coffees, pastries, on-the-go meal options, snacks, whole bean coffee for home brewing and Starbucks merchandise. After getting your order, head to the fifth-floor lounge of the UMC for a study space with great views of the Flatirons.

Coffee on the go

If you’re on the move and want to grab something on your way to class, stop by one of the campus markets. Markets accept meal plans, Campus Cash, Munch Money, Flatiron Meal Plans and credit/debit cards.

Village Market: Located in Williams Village, Village Market proudly serves Starbucks beverages and other on-the-go necessities.

Kittredge Market: Located in the north wing of Kittredge Central, Kittredge Market offers a full-service espresso and tea bar with snacks. Check the Kittredge Market menu on Nutrislice.

Farrand Market: Located on central campus in Farrand, this market offers freshly brewed, sustainably sourced coffee and breakfast items.

Sewall Market: Located on north campus, Sewall offers coffee, teas, snacks, ice cream and student essentials.

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Essential tips for hiking in Colorado

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 16:52:05 +0000

Essential tips for hiking in Colorado Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/25/2025 - 10:52

Listen to this article

One of the best things about living in Boulder is how close you are to epic hiking trails and outdoor adventures. If you’re thinking about hitting the trails at a nearby spot, check out these tips to help you get the most out of your hiking experience.

Ease into it

Select a trail that matches your fitness level, so you can familiarize yourself with the area and terrain first. If you're new to hiking, try the Lion’s Lair Trail . If you have more hiking experience, check out AllTrails for additional hiking options. While Colorado is best known for its 14ers and breathtaking backcountry, it’s important to start easy and work your way up more difficult hikes.

It's also a good idea to check information and regulations before heading out. For information about the Boulder area, you can download the Trails App.

Bring plenty of water and snacks

Staying hydrated is key, especially when you’re active at higher altitudes. Altitude can sneak up on you and cause dehydration faster than you’d expect, so make drinking water a priority before and during your adventures. A good rule of thumb to follow is to drink at least one liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours while hiking. Keep in mind that you may need more on hot days. If you’re bringing a dog with you on the trail, be sure to pack extra water for them as well!

In addition to staying hydrated, pack some snacks for the trail. Consider snacks that have a mix of protein and carbohydrates to help keep your energy up for the duration of the hike. This includes things like peanut butter crackers, jerky, trail mix and fruit snacks.

Leave no trace

Stay on designated trails and pick up all trash and dog waste. Summer and fall in Colorado are high-risk times for wildfires. Pay close attention to fire restrictions and bans (including bans on smoking cigarettes and marijuana) which may be in place in the Boulder area and throughout the state. Be sure to follow all rules and regulations which are critical in protecting visitors, wildlife and our beautiful parks and trails.

Apply sunscreen

At higher altitudes, the sun’s rays are much stronger—meaning you can get sunburned faster than you might expect. Whenever you’re heading out for a hike, make sure to put on sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 1-2 hours. Grabbing a hat and sunglasses is also a smart move to shield yourself from UV exposure while you’re enjoying the outdoors .

Dress for success

Colorado’s weather is unpredictable, so planning ahead is a must. Always check the forecast before heading out, and try to start your hike earlier in the day to avoid afternoon storms. Dress in layers so you can adapt as temperatures shift, and opt for synthetic fabrics that wick moisture better than cotton. Don’t forget a lightweight rain jacket in your pack, just in case. Solid footwear is crucial, so choose shoes with good support and grip for those rocky trails. Finally, stash a basic first aid kit in your backpack for any minor mishaps or blisters along the way—being prepared ensures you’ll spend more time enjoying the views and less time worrying about the unexpected.

Use the buddy system

If you’re going out on a hike, take a friend (or a few)! Accidents are more common than you may think, so it’s good to have someone around to call for help or provide assistance, especially on less frequented trails. Bringing a first aid kit can also help in case of an accident.

If you do decide to go it alone, tell someone where you’re going and how long you expect to be out. Have a plan in place in case they don’t hear from you. That way if something does happen, that person will be able to send for help.

Campus Resources

Adventure Planning Center
The Adventure Planning Center (APC) has resources and staff available to help you plan your next big trip. Whether you're interested in hiking, rafting, climbing, backpacking or camping, the APC is a great place to get started. They can provide great recommendations and help you prepare for your trip. Stop by the first floor of the Rec Center near the Outdoor Pursuits office to get started.

Outdoor Equipment Rentals
Outdoor Pursuits provides equipment rentals for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, climbing, water sports and more. Students with a valid Buff OneCard can rent equipment. Rates and rental periods are available online.

Wilderness Medicine
Attend a Wilderness First Responder class to receive a certification that provides you with the tools to make critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote settings. This course is handy for those who may be hiking, climbing, camping or backpacking in remote or backcountry areas.

Apothecary Pharmacy
Get the supplies you need at the Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center. They have sunscreen, aloe vera, nasal spray, sinus relief, first aid supplies, over the counter and prescription medications, and a variety of personal care items available for sale.

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5 tips for Labor Day weekend

Anonymous — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 13:20:24 +0000

5 tips for Labor Day weekend Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 08/25/2025 - 07:20

As we head into Labor Day weekend, here are some tips and reminders.

Review adjusted hours and closures

Labor Day is a university holiday, and many buildings and offices on campus may be closed on Sept. 1. Review adjusted hours for Campus Dining & Hospitality, the University Memorial Center and the Rec Center this weekend.

Spend time outside

Labor Day weekend is a popular time to enjoy outdoor activities. If you want to rent equipment for camping, backpacking, climbing or other activities, check out Outdoor Pursuits. If you plan to hike or visit parks, review these essential tips for hiking and health hacks for higher elevations.

Get important trail information and regulations for the Boulder area by downloading the Trails App, visiting the city's Open Space and Mountain Parks page and the county's Open Space Parks & Trails Listing page.

Stay safe at parties

You may choose to spend the long weekend out late with friends or at parties, but remember that not everyone drinks alcohol or uses substances.

If you choose to use alcohol or other drugs, here are some things to consider:

Surround yourself with people you know and trust and look out for each other.

Eat before going out and continue eating food and drinking water throughout the night.

Set limits and stick to them. This can include the number of drinks you consume, the number of parties you attend, etc.

Plan how to get home safely (e.g., walking, public transit, Uber/Lyft, CU NightRide, etc.).

Drink at your own pace. Avoid trying to keep up with someone else. If you feel pressured to keep drinking, consider filling your cup with water to avoid unwanted refills.

Know how much one serving of alcohol is: 1.5 ounces of hard liquor (one shot), 5 ounces of wine and 12 ounces of beer (one standard bottle or can). Solo cups can be deceiving.

Avoid mixing prescription or illicit drugs with alcohol, which can increase your chances of an accidental overdose.

Watch for signs of alcohol poisoning or overdose. If someone has passed out or is unresponsive, has slowed or stopped breathing, vomits while passed out, involuntarily poops or pees, feels clammy or cool, has pinpoint (small) pupils or is making gurgling or wheezing sounds, call 911 for help right away. Students who call for help in alcohol- or drug-related emergencies may be protected under ��ñ��’s Amnesty Policy and the 911 Good Samaritan Law in Colorado.

If someone is experiencing potential alcohol poisoning or an overdose, put them in the recovery position by laying them on their side, using their arm to stabilize their body. If available administer naloxone, even if you are not sure if the person is overdosing.

Get more party smart tips.

Avoid getting a ticket

Off-campus living comes with some responsibilities—especially when it comes to things like noise, trash or hosting parties. Tickets for excessive noise or having trash outside can happen at any time, not just late at night.

If you host a party, keep in mind that Boulder has nuisance party rules. That means if your gathering gets too loud, if there’s underage drinking, fighting, littering or people causing a scene, your address can get ticketed—even if it’s your guests making trouble. Learn more about Boulder ordinances.

Want to avoid getting fined? If you’re planning to host, you can lower your chances of receiving a ticket by registering your party. You’ll receive a 20-minute warning if your residence receives a noise complaint. Students must take an in-person orientation before using the party registration program.

Don't set off fireworks

Fireworks are illegal in the city of Boulder. Fireworks not only pose a significant fire risk, but they also can cause noise disruption to your neighbors and our community.

Boulder laws prohibit all fireworks, including items like sparklers, snaps, snakes, bottle rockets, Roman candles and smoke bombs, in addition to fireworks that leave the ground or explode. Possible legal penalties include:

Fines up to $2,650.

Court fees.

Possible arson charges.

Possible jail time.

Liability for property or personal injury damages.

You will also be referred to Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution.

Even if you don't possess or discharge fireworks, you may be held responsible for fireworks used by roommates and guests. Unused fireworks can be brought to the city of Boulder Public Safety Building at 1805 33rd St. without penalty.

If you have any questions about city ordinances, reach out to Student Legal Services or Off-Campus Life.

As we head into Labor Day weekend, here are some tips and reminders.

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Libby Dining striking 4 common allergens

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:56:02 +0000

Libby Dining striking 4 common allergens Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/21/2025 - 09:56

Campus Dining & Hospitality

College life is about new experiences, personal growth and building community. For students with food allergies and dietary restrictions, discovering a truly safe and welcoming dining experience can be a source of comfort and joy.

Campus Dining & Hospitality is taking a bold step this semester by making Libby Dining (formerly known as Libby on the Run) Certified Free From™ peanuts, tree nuts, wheat and gluten. This initiative is designed to ensure students who have these allergies can enjoy delicious, worry-free meals.

Important things to know about Libby Dining

This semester, Libby Dining is not only completely free of peanuts, tree nuts, wheat and gluten, it also offers flexible meal options. Students can dine in for an all-you-care-to-eat experience or pick up a to-go box if they need allergen-free meals on the go.

To maintain the integrity of this allergen-free environment, no backpacks or water bottles are allowed in the dining center to help prevent accidental contamination and support a safe space for all diners. There are storage areas for students to put their personal belongings.

Why Libby Dining is becoming Certified Free From peanuts, tree nuts, wheat and gluten

Food allergies and dietary restrictions affect thousands of college students nationwide, influencing their health, safety and ability to participate fully in campus life. Campus Dining recognizes that everyone’s nutritional needs and preferences are unique. Their mission is clear: create accessible, enjoyable dining experiences for all students and community members by supporting their well-being through thoughtful food choices.

Libby Dining’s transition to a Certified Free From™ location is a direct response to this commitment. Certification as a Free From™ location is more than just a label—it means rigorous standards in food sourcing, preparation and service. By eliminating peanuts, tree nuts, wheat and gluten, Libby Dining becomes a place where students with food allergies or sensitivities can dine with confidence, free from the anxiety of cross-contact and hidden ingredients.

Allergy-friendly choices beyond Libby Dining

While Libby Dining is leading the way as a Certified Free From™ dining center, Campus Dining & Hospitality offers allergy-friendly options at all dining locations. Strict protocols are followed to reduce the risk of cross-contact, and Nutrislice makes it easy to view daily menus, nutritional information, ingredients and allergy information for campus dining locations.

Find support

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 & Hospitality 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.

Campus Dining & Hospitality’s goal is for all students to feel safe, supported and nourished. Libby Dining’s new Certified Free From™ status is a milestone in creating a campus where everyone—no matter their dietary restrictions—can focus on enjoying college life, growing and thriving.

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How to get ready for game day

Emily Sampl — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How to get ready for game day Emily Sampl Wed, 08/20/2025 - 00:00

It’s finally football season! The CU Buffs will take on Georgia Tech at their first home game on Aug. 29. Whether you’re on campus for the game, attending a watch party or cheering from home, here are some tips to get ready for game day.

Check out events before the game

Pearl Street Stampede

Thursday, Aug. 28 | 7 p.m. | Pearl Street

The Pearl Street Stampede is a fall tradition, featuring the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, Colorado Spirit Squad and members of the CU Buffs football team. The stampede will begin in front of the courthouse and move west, stopping on each block of the Pearl Street Mall to perform.

Student Game Day Huddle

Friday, Aug. 29 | 3-5 p.m. | Farrand Field

The Student Game Day Huddle is a tailgate tradition where students can come cheer on the Buffs before CU’s home games. There will be free food, giveaways, games, music and a chance to walk on to Folsom Field if you are chosen as the Student Fan of the Game.

Get organized

If you’re attending the game at Folsom Field, here are some things to know:

Wear either black or white: The first home game of the season is a stripe out—find your section’s color to wear.

Use a clear bag: Folsom Field has a clear bag policy in place. Review Folsom Field policies and reminders.

Practice the CU Fight Song: Watch this video to learn the CU Fight Song before game day.

Visit the CU Athletics website

Be respectful and considerate

Remember that you’re a Buff wherever you are. Whether you’re watching the game at Folsom Field, a local restaurant or a friend’s house off campus, be considerate and respectful to those around you. Buffs stand shoulder to shoulder and value honor, respect and integrity. Make sure you’re welcoming fans, new and old, treating everyone with dignity and celebrating responsibly.

If you’re off campus, be mindful of noise levels. Excessive noise at any time of the day can result in a nuisance ticket—a common citation that can be avoided. You can also be fined if there is trash in your yard or around your property.

If you’re planning on hosting a gathering, lower your chances of receiving an expensive ticket by registering your party with Off-Campus Life. Registering your party will give you a 20-minute notification to shut things down before police are dispatched if a complaint has been made against your address.

Learn more about behaviors that could cost you

Look out for yourselves and each other

We can all do our part to look out for fellow Buffs, both on and off campus.

If you’re concerned about your safety or someone else's, keep an eye on the situation and don’t hesitate to call for help. Always call 911 in a drug- or alcohol-related emergency.

Review the Amnesty Policy to learn more about what to do if you need to call for help in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency.

Review more information about how you can be an effective bystander and look out for other members of our community.

Learn more about how to look out for each other

The CU Buffs will take on Georgia Tech at their first home game on Aug. 29. Whether you’re on campus for the game, attending a watch party or cheering from home, here are some tips to get ready for game day.

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Ride smart: Tips for safe and sustainable campus cycling

Anonymous — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:05:02 +0000

Ride smart: Tips for safe and sustainable campus cycling Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 08/18/2025 - 10:05

Environmental Center

Listen to this article

Biking is one of the most popular ways to navigate campus and Boulder. Here are some tips to help you maintain and protect your bike for a convenient and sustainable way to get around.

Register your bike

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

Park on campus

Bicycles must be parked in bicycle parking racks or secure bike shelters. 96% of bikes stolen on campus had a cable lock 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 and not the front wheel. Thieves can easily remove a front wheel and take the rest of your bike.

If you don’t have a U-lock, you can trade in your cable lock at one of the bike stations during business hours for a free U-lock.

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. Colorado’s DUI statute includes bicycles under its definition of “vehicle.” You can get a DUI for biking under the influence.

Wear a helmet

Wear a helmet anytime you ride to protect your head from serious injury. If you’ve been in an accident, replace your helmet as soon as possible. While you may not be able to see any visible damage, impacts can cause internal damage to the foam cushioning in most helmets, leaving you more vulnerable in the future.

There is no such thing as a concussion-proof helmet. If you hit your head while biking, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to check for a concussion. Learn more about concussion care and symptoms from Medical Services.

Prepare for your bike ride

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

To learn even more about bike repair and maintenance, sign up for our online Bike Mechanics 101 class or explore this slide show about basic bike anatomy.

Have a backup plan

While we do our best to prepare for the unexpected, it’s good to have a backup plan if you get a flat tire or caught in bad weather. Here are a few options:

Ride RTD buses and light rails with a bike and your Buff OneCard.

Download the CU NightRide app for free late-night transportation within Boulder city limits.

Use a ride-share service or ask someone to pick you up.

Check out events and resources

Discover a variety of biking events and resources as you navigate campus life on two wheels:

CU Bike Fest
Sept. 4 | 2-5 p.m. | Farrand Field

Enjoy free food, games and giveaways while becoming part of the ��ñ�� bike community. There will also be a used bike sale!

Semester bike rentals
Students have the option to rent a bike for a semester at a low price through the Environmental Center.

Boulder BCycle
Students can sign up with BCycle for a free ��ñ�� 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.

Sustainable Buffs
Join the Sustainable Buffs Community! Get involved with sustainability and climate action at ��ñ�� and learn how you can add more sustainable actions to every day.

Biking is one of the most popular ways to navigate campus and Boulder. Here are some tips to help you maintain and protect your bike for a convenient and sustainable way to get around.

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Health hacks for high elevations

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:13:27 +0000

Health hacks for high elevations Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 08/15/2025 - 10:13

Listen to this article

Whether you’re soaking up sunshine on campus or heading out for an adventure, there are many ways to take in Colorado’s great outdoors. To help you enjoy every moment safely, here’s what you need to know about staying healthy and prepared while making the most of the season.

Altitude: It’s a thing

Colorado’s higher elevations can catch newcomers off guard. Boulder sits at about 5,300 feet, but hikes like the Flatirons can take you above 7,000 feet quickly. That change can cause altitude sickness and mess with your body if you’re not used to it.

While altitude sickness typically occurs between 7,500 and 8,000 feet in elevation, some may experience symptoms before reaching this range.

Altitude sickness symptoms to watch for:

Headaches

Nausea or feeling sick

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Feeling super tired

Loss of appetite

Shortness of breath

What to do if you feel off:

Chill out and rest, and if you can, head to a lower elevation

Hydrate like it’s your job

Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headaches

Avoid alcohol, vaping and intense workouts for a day or two

Seek medical attention right away if you notice:

Confusion or passing out

Trouble breathing, even when resting

Blue lips or skin

Chest tightness or coughing up frothy stuff

Rapid heartbeat or extreme fatigue

These could be signs of serious altitude-related conditions like high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and they need medical attention ASAP.

Sun protection is self-care

The sun’s rays are more intense at higher elevations, making it the perfect place to catch a sunburn year-round.

Your sun-safe starter pack:

SPF 30+ sunscreen: Apply 30 minutes before heading out and reapply every one to two hours. For the best coverage, opt for sunscreen lotions rather than sprays.

Shade breaks: Avoid direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stylish hats: Try bucket hats or a hat with a wide brim for sun protection.

Sunglasses: Polarized ones protect your eyes and reduce glare.

UPF clothing: Look for gear rated UPF 30+ for extra protection.

Sunscreen and other wellness supplies are also available for purchase at the Apothecary Pharmacy.

Stay hydrated

High elevation can leave you feeling more dehydrated than usual. If you’re active outside, aim for a liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours. It’s also important to bring extra for your friends and pets if you plan to be outdoors. Bonus tip: Cut back on caffeine—it’s a sneaky dehydrator.

Beat the heat

Colorado summers can be spicy. Whether you have plans outdoors or you're commuting to class across campus, pay attention to the heat index. If the heat index hits 90°F or above, try to take it easy. That number reflects how hot it feels outside and not just the temp.

Heat safety tips:

Find AC, shade or a fan to cool off.

Sip water or sports drinks (avoid alcohol and caffeine).

Take a cold shower or use wet towels/ice packs.

Ditch tight or extra layers of clothing.

Seek medical help if you notice:

Nausea, vomiting

Dizziness or fainting

Trouble breathing

Fever over 102°F after 30 minutes of cooling

Seizures or loss of consciousness

Whether you’re hiking, hammocking or heading to class, staying safe means you can enjoy everything Colorado has to offer. For more tips, follow @CUHealthyBuffs on Instagram.

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Your complete guide to eating on campus

Anonymous — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Your complete guide to eating on campus Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 08/15/2025 - 01:00

Campus Dining & Hospitality

Staying fueled is an essential part of being a successful college student. Campus Dining & Hospitality makes it easy for students to find nutritious options with 15 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 the dining center 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.

Allergen-free location

Libby Dining, formerly known as Libby on the Run, is becoming Certified Free From™ peanuts, tree nuts, wheat and gluten. This allergen-free location will now be an all-you-care to eat dining center with the ability to dine in and receive a to-go box (for a meal swipe) for those who need allergen free food when Libby isn't open. No backpacks or water bottles will be allowed in the dining center to ensure this location remains free of allergens.

Grab-n-gos

Grab-n-go locations are great for students who are in a hurry and need a quick meal or snack but may not have time for a sit-down meal in a 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.

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

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 Colorado’s most famous cannibal!

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 seven days a week 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 CU apparel! You can also enjoy your favorite Starbucks drink.

Dietary accommodations

Campus Dining & Hospitality strives to meet the dietary needs of our ��ñ�� community at all locations. In our A9 Identified labeling program, all menu items are labeled for the nine major allergens, gluten, pork and alcohol, as well as for special diets such as vegan and vegetarian.

Students can use Nutrislice 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 & Hospitality 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 ($11.63 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 iOS or Android to use your phone to pay at any campus dining location. You can sign in to the app using your CU 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 Sept. 23-25. 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, consider donating to the Basic Needs Center. Students experiencing food insecurity can check out the Buff Pantry.

Campus Dining & Hospitality makes it easy for students, faculty, staff and visitors to find nutritious options with convenient locations across campus.

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Conquer your commute: 4 tips for students

Emily Sampl — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 22:00:50 +0000

Conquer your commute: 4 tips for students Emily Sampl Thu, 08/14/2025 - 16:00

Off-Campus Life

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Whether you live two or 20 miles from campus, here are four tips to make commuting smoother this semester.

Explore transportation options

All enrolled CU students can use their Buff OneCard to access RTD bus and rail routes. Learn more about how to ride the bus or find a park-n-ride near you. Download the Transit app for routes and real-time transit information to stay informed if there are delays or cancellations.

With many sunny and warm days during Colorado 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, BCycle, 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!

Know about weather closures or delays

Our campus may experience delays or closures due to inclement weather. Students receive email notifications through the campus alert system, and you can add your phone number in Buff Portal to get CU Alerts 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.

Check out campus dining options

With 15 on-campus dining locations, you have many options for meals or snacks between classes. Download the Nutrislice app or use the Nutrislice 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, complete this form 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 ��ñ�� Life app and follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Whether you live two or 20 miles from campus, here are four tips to make commuting smoother this semester.

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Key tips for living with roommates

Anonymous — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:44:43 +0000

Key tips for living with roommates Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 08/13/2025 - 09:44

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Living with roommates can be a great experience that also might come with its challenges. For many of you, this might be the first time you’re sharing a living space or living with someone new.

Most students get along well with their roommates, and it’s normal to have disagreements sometimes. The good news is that working through these issues can help you grow and even strengthen your relationship. Here are some tips to help you create a positive living situation and handle any conflicts that might come up.

Get to know your roommate

Find common interests with your roommate and be open to accepting your differences. Even if you already know them, take some time to talk about the semester ahead and your daily routines.

Learn each other’s schedules so you can respect each other’s needs. For example, if you have an early class and need to go to bed early, but your roommate has a late work schedule and prefers to sleep in, understanding these habits will make living together easier. Good communication is key to figuring out each other’s routines and preferences.

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, chores and shared belongings.

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.

Be open to compromise

When discussing things with your roommate, you might have differences or opinions that could lead to disagreements. However, it’s often possible to find middle ground and compromise on things that aren’t a big deal.

For instance, if you prefer studying at home on Friday afternoons but your roommate likes to have friends over at the end of the week, you could choose to study at the library instead of asking for quiet time. Working out compromises like this can make living together more comfortable for both of you.

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.

Address issues quickly and in person

It’s a good idea to deal with roommate problems quickly before they become bigger issues. Try to talk to your roommate face-to-face about anything important. Using texts, social media or sticky notes to bring up problems can often lead to misunderstandings or make the situation worse. For example, a simple reminder like “Don’t forget to take out the trash” could come across differently than you intended.

Before you bring up an issue, take a moment to think about how to explain your feelings and needs. Using “I” statements is a helpful way to start. For example, you could say, “I feel frustrated when guests eat my snacks because I don’t always have time to go grocery shopping.”

Respect is a two-way street. Make sure to really listen to your roommate when they respond and ask questions to better understand their point of view. Avoid thinking about how you’ll respond while they’re talking—focus instead on understanding their thoughts and feelings so you can find a solution together.

If you’re nervous about starting the conversation, you can ask your RA or the Conflict Resolution team for help. They can guide the discussion and help you work things out. Remember, dealing with conflict can lead to better communication and a stronger relationship with your roommate.

Find support

You have access to a variety of resources to help resolve roommate conflicts if they come up.

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

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.

If you're ever concerned about your roommate, reach out to Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support or Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution for guidance.

Living with a roommate is a chance to build meaningful friendships and learn how to communicate effectively. By setting clear rules, resolving disagreements and using campus resources when needed, you can create a positive and supportive living space.

Here are some tips for creating a positive living environment and navigating conflict if it comes up.

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