Why it matters to feel like you belong
As a CU Boulder student, you have to manage multiple responsibilities. Getting involved in student organizations, leadership positions, volunteer opportunities or on-campus events may feel like a low priority. Yet, cultivating a sense of belonging and connection offers many benefits to your college experience and future.
Multiple studies show a connection between student involvement and positive academic outcomes, improved mental health, increased confidence and other benefits.
Improved academic performance
Find ways to connect with other students in your major or participate in academic activities.
- Join student organizations related to your area of study or academic interests. Check out to search over 400 student organizations.
- Explore the events, programs and leadership opportunities within your area of study or major.
- Check out tutoring resources to support your academic growth and connect to mentors and peers.
Find support when facing discrimination
Acts of discrimination, whether overt or microaggressions, cause harm and can negatively impact a student’s college experience. Research shows a link between students experiencing discrimination and increased rates of depressive symptoms and lower GPAs. The data also shows that academic performance and mental health can improve when students become involved on campus and have positive peer relationships. Becoming involved can create a sense of belonging and community that offers a support system to help students navigate experiences of discrimination.
CU Boulder is committed to equity, inclusion and social justice. Find community support and connection by exploring the many ways to get involved.
- Engage in diverse programs and events at the Dennis Small Cultural Center.
- Explore identity and inclusion through events and programs offered by the Center for Inclusion and Social Change.
- Find support and community through events, programs and resources offered by the Pride Office.
- Connect with the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC) to address issues of discrimination and harassment.
Positive impacts on wellness and mental health
Activities that encourage belonging help students to achieve goals and have more confidence. Involved students typically have more social support, which can positively impact mental wellness, counter depression and decrease the risk of suicide.
CU Boulder’s Health and Wellness Services offers a wide range of programs, events and resources to support students.
- Visit the Recreation Center to participate in fitness classes, intramural or club sports, Outdoor Pursuits and other classes or activities.
- Attend Health and Wellness programs to learn, have fun and connect to resources. Check out Mindful Mondays, Health Huts and Wellness Wednesdays.
- Register for a workshop to learn about topics like stress management, healthy habits and life skills.
Build a strong network
Students involved in campus organizations and activities can build a more robust network. Your network can help connect you to internships, awards, job opportunities and mentorship now and in the future. The Forever Buffs Network offers students and alumni a way to stay connected to the Buff community.
CU Boulder has several departments to help students engage in the community, focus on the future and make the world a better place.
- Connect with Career Services to learn how to position yourself well for a job or internship. Attend events and workshops or schedule an Express Appointment.
- Connect with the Volunteer Resource Center to explore volunteer opportunities on campus or in the community.
- Participate in events and programs offered by the Environmental Center and join the Sustainable Buffs Community.
- Work on campus as a student employee to gain skills, meet new people and earn money.
Enjoy your college experience
Being involved can make college more fun. Joining student organizations, attending campus events, volunteering and other activities can help you meet new people and make friends. Data shows that when you make five or more friends at CU, you are more likely to feel like you belong.
- Check out events from the Center for Student Involvement like Buffs After Dark, Buffalo Nites, DIY Nights, I Love Mondays and more to meet new people and have fun.
- Visit The Connection for bowling, billiards, ping pong, board games, video games, tournaments, trivia and more.
- Join a student organization or start your own to build relationships, advance a cause or learn something new.
- Learn more about how to get involved in Fraternity and Sorority Life.
Get involved!
Enhance your college experience, build relationships and improve your well-being by becoming involved at CU Boulder. The Center for Student Involvement and Division of Student Affairs promotes belonging, connection and a quality student experience.