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At this point, we are more than halfway through the fall semester. Between balancing midterms and coursework with other responsibilities, this month may have been more stressful than usual for some of us. With the upcoming holiday this weekend, I hope you are able to find time to take a break from your studies, relax and celebrate safely.

Celebrate the season

Halloween is a fun holiday that many of us are looking forward to this weekend. I personally can’t wait to enjoy some Reese’s peanut butter cups! To celebrate and connect with fellow Buffs, I encourage you to check out the many free Halloween events happening this week. Between Halloween Drag Queen Bingo, BOOldering Night at the Rec Center and more, take advantage of these opportunities to get into the holiday spirit. I will also be out and about on campus this Friday from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. as a "dean on the go." I hope to see you around!

If you’re not a fan of Halloween, there are still ways to take a break from your studies this weekend and enjoy the fall season. Grab an apple cider or pumpkin spice latte from a local coffee shop and take a walk on the . Or visit the for seasonal food and other items, and try a new fall-inspired recipe with a friend or roommate. Participate in upcoming Homecoming events, including the on Nov. 3 featuring the Peach Tree Rascals. Whatever your hobbies or interests are, make time this season to relax, recharge and enjoy this time of year. 

Look out for yourselves and each other 

Whatever you choose to do this weekend, please be safe and responsible. 

• If you are concerned about your safety or someone else's, keep an eye on the situation and don’t hesitate to call for help.
• Review more information about how you can be an effective bystander and look out for other members of the community.
• Review the Amnesty Policy also to learn more about what to do if you need to call for help in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency.
• Try to take safety precautions when you can, like using the buddy system and getting home safely by using CU NightRide.
• Continue to follow good hygiene practices and wear your face mask indoors in public spaces to help keep yourself and our community members safe.

If you plan to celebrate by dressing up in a costume, consider the impact your decision might have on others. Be mindful and respectful, and avoid carrying fake weapons that can appear real to those around you.

Focus on mental health

With midterms coming to an end and fall break still a few weeks away, many students may be feeling stressed. If you’re struggling and need support, please reach out and use the resources available to you.

• Counseling & Psychiatric Services offers in-person and telehealth appointments, and virtual workshops.
• is a free service where students can check in for an informal and confidential consultation with a counselor in person or online. If you have non-urgent concerns you would like to speak to a counselor about, this is a great option to get connected and learn about additional resources.
• Check out weekly events like Mindful Mondays and Wellness Wednesdays to learn self-care tips.
• Try peer wellness coaching. This is a free service available to CU Boulder students to help you set and achieve wellness goals.
• Review these tips for managing midterm stress. 
• Stay connected with your fellow Buffs at free student events.

And as always, I’m here for you - please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you aren’t sure what you need. I hope to see you while I’m out and about on campus, so please stop and say hi if you see me!

JB Banks
Dean of Students and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs