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While this past month has been stressful and disrupting for many of us, the end of the semester is in sight and you are almost done. I’ll be honest—this isn’t the way any of us anticipated the spring semester ending. These may be challenging times, but you aren’t alone and we are here to help you finish strong—wherever you may be.

Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Akirah Bradley

Financial assistance

I know many Buffs have been impacted by COVID-19, and our campus community has come together to support students with the Buffs Together campaign. Specifically, the Student Emergency Fund provides direct financial assistance to students who have lost wages so they can pay bills, secure remote-learning technology and access food and health care. Emergency funding is provided in the form of a one-time grant, which does not need to be repaid. The value of the grant will be based on the needs of each student, but typically does not exceed $500. If you need assistance right now, I encourage you to learn more about how to apply to the Student Emergency Fund.

Food assistance

Next week, a mobile food pantry will take place on Wednesday, April 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. The food pantry will be in the parking lot between the University Memorial Center (UMC) and the Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE).

The mobile food pantry is free and open to all CU Boulder students, faculty and staff. You can walk up or drive through to receive one box of non-perishable food and one box of fresh produce. A line following social distancing requirements will be in place for walk-up attendees. Staff will be present to direct vehicle traffic in the drive-through lane, where food will be loaded into your vehicle. For more details, please visit the Volunteer Resource Center website.

Find support for finals

With finals just around the corner, visit colorado.edu/finals for tips on managing stress, resources and more. I know it can be challenging to stay motivated right now, but the finish line is close and you’re almost there! Here are some tips to help you make it through finals: 

• Ask for help if you’re stuck trying to understand a subject or you’re struggling with a project. Reach out to your faculty, teaching assistants and classmates with questions. There are also many remote academic services available.
• Add short breaks to your study sessions. Try studying for 20–25 minutes and then take a five-minute break. Use your short break to stretch, check Instagram or get a snack, and then repeat the cycle. Avoid long study sessions and all-nighters if you can. 
• Reach out for support and ask a friend or housemate to help hold you accountable with your studying through the end of the semester.
• Balance your studies by making time for things that you enjoy, whether it’s extra research on a topic that interests you or participating in a favorite hobby. 

Additionally, continue to find productive ways to relieve stress and find balance. Engage in physical activity, stay connected with friends and family virtually and practice self-care. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like it’s too much right now, please reach out and use the virtual support and advocacy resources that are available to all students.  

Demonstrate our campus values

With all that’s going on, it’s more important than ever that we act with integrity, honor and compassion wherever we are. Many of us are beginning to feel restless and anxious for things to return to normal. But we all have a critical role to play in minimizing the spread of this virus and influencing how soon we can return to normal routines. 

The stay-at-home orders and safety guidance are not just about protecting yourself, but also protecting loved ones and others in our communities. I encourage you to consider how your decisions and actions may affect others, and to keep our campus values and Colorado Creed in mind. Remember that you are a Buff wherever you are—be mindful, respectful and kind.

While it may not feel like it right now, this situation is temporary. I encourage you to keep the big picture in mind and we will get through this together. Your community at CU Boulder supports you, and we are rooting for you to finish strong.

Akirah J. Bradley, EdD
Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs