How to socialize safely
Making friends in college can be harder than it looks, especially in the age of physical distancing and increased precautions. One way our students can make friends on campus this semester is to get involved and find people who have similar interests. After that, it’s all about following up, making plans to hang out again and getting to know each other.Ìý
Here are some ways your student can make (and keep) friends if they enjoy...
Ìý The great outdoors
Meet people:
The Outdoor Program at the Rec Center offers a number of trips, courses and opportunities to learn about the outdoors, go exploring and meet new people. There are also a number of that focus on outdoor activities and recreation. Encourage your student to sign up for a class, trip or club to get involved and meet fellow outdoor Buffs.Ìý
Make follow-up plans:Ìý
Check out to find a new favorite hiking spot and follow our 7 essential tips
Go for a around Boulder (free bike rentals are available to students)
Grab take-out and find a spot for a picnic at a local park
Explore and join for hiking, biking and outdoor adventures
Take advantage of the Outdoor Equipment Rental Center to rent equipment for climbing, hiking, camping, water sports and more.
Get a climbing pass and reserve your spot at the Rec Center climbing gym
Ìý Reading books
Meet people:
The Center for Student Involvement offers a free book club where students can read about leadership, diversity and inclusion or enjoy New York Times Best Sellers. Encourage your student to sign up for a book club that interests them to meet other book lovers.
Make follow-up plans:Ìý
Visit some of the CU Boulder Library exhibits
Explore Boulder by visiting the around town
Create a book exchange with friends on campus or with people back home
Start a book club (virtually or in a small group)
Attend an author reading or social event through the
Ìý Gaming
Meet people:Ìý
CU Boulder has a large gaming community! Your student can meet fellow gamers by joining or head to The Connection for bowling, billiards and other games.
Make follow-up plans:Ìý
Host a physically distanced game night with a few friends or play online
Join Buffs After Dark to play a variety of online games like murder mysteries and complete virtual escape rooms with friends
Attend Community Game Nights every Friday to participate in trivia, game shows, bingo and more
Plan a or adventure around Boulder
Ìý Do it yourself projects
Meet people:
If your student wants to meet other makers, encourage them to join the Center for Student Involvement for a DIY Night! They also offer Guided Paint Classes for all levels. These events are a great way to meet fellow crafters.
Make follow-up plans:Ìý
Encourage them to enlist their roommate to help decorate their space
Pick up a Make-n-Take kit and get crafty with projects like wooden coasters, mini gardens, mug decorating and more
Attend a local to work on projects or hang out with crafters
Work on a DIY project with friends, neighbors or roommates
Visit local craft stores or thrift stores to get inspired
For a full list of student events happening this semester visit.