Buff Family News

Preparing for your student to come home for the summer

Emily Sampl — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:21:46 +0000

Preparing for your student to come home for the summer Emily Sampl Mon, 04/13/2026 - 09:21

Counseling & Psychiatric Services

Having your student home for the summer can be a great opportunity to reconnect, spend time together and create new memories. Your Buff may return home with new perspectives and independence from their time at CU, and as you adjust to living together again, clear communication and flexibility can help set the stage for a positive summer experience. Review these tips to help prepare for the transition.

Talk about expectations ahead of time

Take time to talk with your student about their life at CU and what their day-to-day independence looks like now. Their expectations for being home may be different from yours, especially when it comes to things like:

Curfews

Chores or household responsibilities

Time spent with family versus friends

Try to talk through expectations before they arrive and look for a compromise when possible. It can also help to decide together which expectations are truly necessary and which ones can be flexible.

Open communication can help prevent misunderstandings. Remember, your student may not be used to sharing their plans. It’s okay to let them know what information is helpful for you and to share your own plans, too, especially if there are family events they’re expected to attend.

Be ready for challenging conversations

The summer may bring up conversations about grades, majors, relationships, substance use or differing viewpoints. These topics can feel challenging for both families and students.

Preparing ahead of time—and focusing on listening, curiosity and respect—can make these conversations more productive and supportive.

Build a routine together

Coming home can feel like a big shift if your student’s schedule and responsibilities are different than they were during the school year. Talking about routines ahead of time can support them and help everyone feel more balanced.

You might ask questions like:

What kind of daily routine helps you feel your best?

What do you want your sleep schedule to look like this summer?

How can we support your need for social time and alone time?

Are there things you’d like to do together while you’re home?

Support healthy ways to cope

Living together again, especially for an extended period, can sometimes bring stress along with connection. Finding healthy ways to cope can help everyone navigate changes.

Some ideas include:

Checking in regularly about how things are going

Leaning on friends or extended family for support

Being flexible and open to compromise

Getting enough sleep and staying physically active

Making time for hobbies and activities you enjoy

Remembering that no family is perfect—mistakes happen, and repair matters

Find support

If your student needs extra support during the summer, there are campus and virtual resources available.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
Students located in Colorado can receive support for mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression and more.

BetterMynd

�鶹��Ƶ has partnered with BetterMynd to offer free, flexible and confidential online counseling—available in all 50 states. BetterMynd is a virtual therapy platform designed specifically for college students.

Having your student home for the summer can be a great opportunity to reconnect, spend time together and create new memories. As you adjust to living together again, clear communication and flexibility can help set the stage for a positive summer experience. Review these tips to help prepare for the transition.

Zebra Striped

White

Know before you go: Commencement 2026

Lynia Herrington — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 19:55:36 +0000

Know before you go: Commencement 2026 Lynia Herrington Fri, 04/10/2026 - 13:55

The class of 2026 is about to mark a wonderful milestone at �鶹��Ƶ, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome you to join in this special celebration. To help you enjoy the day, we’ve put together some helpful tips and reminders for attending the Commencement Ceremony on May 2.

Arrive early

No tickets are required for the commencement ceremony, so early arrival guarantees you the best seating. The stadium gates open at 7 a.m., and we recommend that you are in your seat by 8:15 a.m. to watch the student processional enter the stadium. Learn more about seating in Folsom Field.

Review parking and transportation details

Arriving early also allows you plenty of time to find parking and get to the stadium. Visitors can expect heavy traffic while traveling to Boulder, in the city and around campus.

All campus parking lots will be open for public parking. Visitors can park on campus for no charge on the days of commencement and recognition ceremonies, including the pay-to-park lots. Free Buff Bus service will be available on the day of commencement to shuttle families and guests to and from campus parking lots and Folsom Field.

Learn more about parking and transportation for commencement, including ADA accessibility parking, accessible drop-off areas and more. Easily find your way around during Commencement with interactive Campus Map.

Know what to bring (and not bring)

A clear bag: Folsom Field has a clear bag policy that will be enforced for Commencement. Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” will be allowed.

Weather-appropriate attire: Colorado weather in May can be unpredictable. No matter the weather, commencement will happen at Folsom Field. All guests are encouraged to pay attention to the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

An empty water bottle: You may bring an empty, non-disposable plastic water bottle to fill in the stadium if it is 51 ounces or smaller.

Items that are not permitted include umbrellas, balloons, professional-grade video and camera equipment and artificial noisemakers. Review Folsom Field’s full prohibited items list for the commencement ceremony.

Make a plan with your student in advance

A large crowd will exit the stadium after the ceremony and cell phone coverage can be unpredictable. Decide in advance where you will meet your graduate to avoid confusion.

As you make post-ceremony plans, leave time to find your graduate, take photos and navigate to your student’s recognition ceremony if it is being held the same day.

Get last-minute updates

Check these resources for information and last-minute updates, such as weather advisories:

�鶹��Ƶ’s social media channels (X, Instagram, Facebook)

�鶹��Ƶ Alerts: Families and guests can opt into �鶹��Ƶ Alerts messaging by texting “CUGRAD” to 67283. Guest subscribers will automatically be unsubscribed after commencement week.

Commencement website

Recognition ceremonies information

Share your experience

We want to celebrate your student with you! Add #ForeverBuffs wherever you post on social media for the chance to be featured on the video boards at Folsom Field and during the commencement ceremony livestream.

Soon, the class of 2026 will celebrate the end of their academic journey at �鶹��Ƶ. We’re excited to welcome family members and friends to participate in this significant moment for our Buffs. Here are some things to know and final reminders for attending the Commencement Ceremony on May 2.

Off

Traditional

White

Be prepared for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Lynia Herrington — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:06:14 +0000

Be prepared for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony Lynia Herrington Fri, 04/03/2026 - 08:06

Spring Commencement is just around the corner, and we’re so glad you’ll be joining us at �鶹��Ƶ to celebrate your Buff! The following information will help you plan ahead and enjoy a meaningful day on campus.

Planning your arrival

Expect traffic and arrive early

Commencement weekend brings a lot of excitement—and a lot of visitors—to Boulder and campus. Please plan for heavy traffic and allow extra time to park and get to the stadium.

All �鶹��Ƶ campus parking lots will be free and open to the public on a space-available basis during the commencement and recognition ceremonies.

Review campus parking options before you arrive

Early arrival will help reduce stress and ensure a smoother experience

Accessibility and accommodations

�鶹��Ƶ is committed to making commencement and recognition ceremonies welcoming and accessible for all guests.

Available accommodations include:

ADA‑accessible parking and drop‑off locations

Wheelchair seating and assistance

Real-time captioning and assistive listening devices

All-gender restrooms

Lactation spaces and additional support services

We encourage families to review the ADA and accommodations information in advance so everyone in your party can fully enjoy the celebration.

Commencement Ceremony details

What to bring (and what to leave at home)

Folsom Field has a clear bag policy that will be enforced during the commencement ceremony. All guests should expect to go through a security screening before entering the stadium.

Allowed bags:

Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”

One-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic freezer bags

Please note that backpacks, diaper bags and other similar bags are not permitted.

Several items are also prohibited inside Folsom Field, including balloons, artificial noisemakers, professional‑grade cameras and video equipment. Reviewing the prohibited items list ahead of time can help avoid delays at the gate.

Seating and ceremony timing

Stadium gates open: 7 a.m.

Recommended seating time: By 8:15 a.m. to enjoy watching the student processional

No tickets are required for the commencement ceremony. Seating is first‑come, first‑served, so arriving early is the best way to secure seats together and near your graduate.

Build your full celebration schedule

The main commencement ceremony is �鶹��Ƶ’s premier event honoring all graduating Buffs, but it’s not the only opportunity to celebrate.

The celebrations continue at the recognition ceremonies hosted by your student's specific college, school, department or program. Recognition ceremonies complement the commencement ceremony by recognizing the individual student in a smaller, more intimate setting.

We encourage families to view the full commencement celebrations schedule to make the most of this special milestone.

Have questions?

Many common questions are answered on the commencement FAQ page—this is a great resource as you finalize travel plans and prepare for the day.

We’re honored to celebrate this moment with your family and look forward to welcoming you to campus for Spring Commencement!

Zebra Striped

White

Move out tips and summer storage

Lynia Herrington — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:26:40 +0000

Move out tips and summer storage Lynia Herrington Mon, 03/30/2026 - 08:26

If your student plans to move out of their residence soon, this is a great time to prepare. Whether they live on or off campus, here are some tips, reminders and summer storage options to share with them.

Donate items

Donating helps your community and cuts down on waste.

On-campus residents: Give and Go Donation Drive

If your student lives on campus, encourage them to take part in the Give and Go Donation Drive from April 27-May 1. They can donate:

Clothing and shoes

Usable home goods

Unopened, non‑perishable food

Books and school supplies

Toiletries, hygiene products and cleaning supplies

Items not accepted:

Bedding, pillows or towels

Broken items

Off-campus residents: Drop-off locations on The Hill

If your Buff lives off campus, they can use drop‑off sites on The Hill to get rid of hard‑to‑recycle items like furniture, mattresses and electronics. This program is a partnership between the Environmental Center, Off-Campus Life and the city of Boulder.

2026 drop-off dates will be May 4-5. Students can also use this form to request a pickup of unwanted items from your property between the dates of April 20 and April 24.

Drop-off locations:

11th St. & Pennsylvania Ave.

13th St. & Euclid Ave.

15th St. & Euclid Ave.

10th St. & College Ave.

Aurora Ave. & 12th St.

There are also donation centers around Boulder that accept usable items in good condition.

Is your student looking to donate their bike? Unwanted bikes can be donated at the TLC and UMC bike stations, where they will be refurbished and sold at the annual fall bike sale.

Store items

If your student plans to keep and use their items again next year, storage is a great option.

Summer storage

Students can check out our preferred storage partners in the area for convenient options. The UPS Store at �鶹��Ƶ offers packing, shipping and storage services to help make your student’s move easy, and there are several other local storage providers available for your Buff’s needs.

Bike storage on campus

The CU Bike Program offers secure, covered bike storage for the entire summer for $20. Bikes left on outdoor racks are often stolen, and abandoned bikes may be impounded—summer storage is a safer option.

When: April 27–29, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Where: CU Bicycle Warehouse (southwest corner of 3100 Marine St.) or the TLC bike station

Cost: $20 (credit/debit only)

How it works: No reservations—bikes are accepted first‑come, first‑served

If your student wishes to keep their bike for all of finals week, they can email bicycle@colorado.edu to discuss later drop-off options.

Dispose of items that can’t be donated

Some items need special handling and should not go in the trash.

Medications: Students can use the take‑back box in the lobby of the Parking Services and Police Department building.

Vapes and hazardous tobacco products: Students can dispose of them at designated locations in the UMC and Village Center.

Electronics: In Colorado, it’s illegal to throw electronics in the trash. Students can:

Donate usable electronics to thrift stores.

Recycle broken electronics at Eco‑Cycle’s Center for Hard‑to‑Recycle Materials, Staples or Best Buy.

Household hazardous waste: Students can learn how to dispose of hazardous waste items like fluorescent bulbs, cleaning products, motor oil, antifreeze, paint and yard care products.

Other hard‑to‑recycle items: Students can visit the Environmental Center website for guidance on disposing of batteries, cell phones and toner cartridges.

For more sustainability tips and resources on recycling and beyond, encourage your Buff to connect with the Environmental Center.

Off

Zebra Striped

White

Supporting your student through finals

Emily Sampl — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:38:38 +0000

Supporting your student through finals Emily Sampl Thu, 03/26/2026 - 12:38

Finals mark an important milestone each semester—a time when students are pulling together what they’ve learned and preparing to wrap up the academic year. With full schedules and priorities competing for attention, it’s helpful for students to have simple tools and steady support as they move through these final weeks. Your encouragement can help your student stay grounded, confident and connected to resources that support their well‑being.

Everyday tools and habits that support well‑being

During finals, small, practical strategies combined with healthy daily habits can help students stay grounded and focused. These approaches don’t require extra time or perfection—even brief moments of care can make a difference. Here are some tips to share with your student:

Pause and breathe: Slow, steady breathing can help calm the body during stressful moments. Techniques like box breathing (inhaling, holding and exhaling for a few counts) can help students reset and refocus.

Stay present: Grounding techniques that use the senses (noticing what they can see, hear or feel) can help bring attention back to the present moment when stress feels distracting.

Check basic needs: Stress often feels heavier when students are hungry, tired, lonely or dehydrated. Regular meals, rest, water and connection with others help support both energy and mood.

Move and take breaks: Light movement like walking, stretching or visiting The Rec can help students recharge.

Prioritize rest and connection: Sleep, social time and campus involvement all play an important role in maintaining emotional well‑being, especially during busy weeks.

How families can support their student

Even from a distance, families play an important role. Consider these ways to offer support:

Listen—sometimes students just need space to talk

Ask open‑ended questions like “What’s feeling most important right now?”

Encourage rest and breaks, especially when conversations focus heavily on productivity

Remind them of available resources if they mention feeling overwhelmed

Offer reassurance that effort matters more than perfection.

Most of all, staying connected and letting your student know you’re in their corner can provide steady encouragement through finals and beyond.

Campus support and mental health resources

Students don’t have to navigate stress alone. �鶹��Ƶ offers a range of free and accessible resources:

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides workshops, drop‑in hours, screenings and referrals to support students’ mental health. Free workshops include Anxiety Toolbox, Feel Better Fast and Feel Good Friday meditation sessions at the CU Art Museum.

BetterMynd
CAPS has partnered with BetterMynd to offer free, flexible and confidential online counseling for �鶹��Ƶ students.

Peer Wellness Coaching
Students can meet with trained peer coaches to talk through stress, routines, time management and well‑being goals in a supportive, non‑clinical setting.

Acupuncture (Acudetox)
Free acupuncture sessions are available through CAPS and the Collegiate Recovery Community and may help with stress relief and overall well‑being. Families can also purchase gift certificates for acupuncture sessions through Medical Services.

Encouraging your student to explore these options, and reminding them that seeking support is a sign of strength, can help normalize using campus resources.

Zebra Striped

White

From Vice Chancellor Mull: Celebrating Buffs All In together

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:13:54 +0000

From Vice Chancellor Mull: Celebrating Buffs All In together Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 03/19/2026 - 09:13

Hi Buff families,

As students return to campus after spring break, this point in the semester often marks a natural transition. With longer days and seasonal changes around campus, many students are moving into the final stretch of the academic term and continuing to define their �鶹��Ƶ experience.

Buffs All In

March is a special time at �鶹��Ƶ as we recognize Buffs All In, our annual season of giving. Each year, we are reminded of what is possible when Buffs show up for one another and invest in the traditions, programs and opportunities that support student life.

Throughout the month, many students have engaged with Buffs All In Student Philanthropy in a variety of ways, including connecting with the Herd Leadership Council. The Herd helps students understand how giving supports campus traditions and student programs, while also building leadership skills and a deeper understanding of how �鶹��Ƶ is supported by those who care about our university.

Join me and get involved

As part of Buffs All In, I’m inviting families to join me in a giving challenge in support of Student Life. When 200 donors contribute, an additional $1,000 will be unlocked to support student programs, experiences and campus traditions. Every gift—no matter the size—plays a role in strengthening student life at �鶹��Ƶ.

Students are also invited to take part in the Buffs All In Celebration on Tuesday, March 31, with activities happening at locations across campus. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, celebrate and be part of this shared effort.

How Buffs make a difference

As Buffs All In concludes at the end of March, it is also a reminder that support for students takes many forms. Giving is not only about financial contributions—it includes sharing time, talents and encouragement in ways that make a positive difference. These efforts, large and small, help strengthen the �鶹��Ƶ experience for current and future Buffs.

I am continually inspired by the leadership and engagement I see from our students, and I am grateful for the role families play in supporting them along the way. Thank you for being part of what makes �鶹��Ƶ such a special place. As the semester continues, your encouragement and involvement remain an important part of your student’s journey.

Warmly,
Dr. D’Andra Mull
Vice Chancellor for Student Life

March is a special time at �鶹��Ƶ as we come together to celebrate generosity and connection through Buffs All In. Vice Chancellor for Student Life Dr. D'Andra Mull shares more about how Buffs can get involved.

Off

Traditional

White

Tips for talking with your student about their future

Anonymous — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:27:48 +0000

Tips for talking with your student about their future Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 03/06/2026 - 09:27

Career Services

Talking about careers with your student can be a meaningful opportunity to connect. Today’s career paths are more varied than ever, and students don’t need to have everything figured out right now. With encouragement, open conversations and the right resources, students can take small, confident steps toward their future.

Here are a few ways to approach career conversations with your student, plus tools and resources that can help along the way.

Start with listening, not solving

Today’s job market looks different than it did even a few years ago. Many “entry‑level” jobs now ask for previous experience, which can feel discouraging to students who are just getting started.

When talking with your student:

Ask open-ended questions like, “What kinds of roles are you curious about right now?”

Listen without rushing to fix or advise.

Validate that it’s okay to feel unsure or overwhelmed.

Sometimes students just need space to talk things through before they’re ready for next steps.

Help them see the skills they’re already building

Many students don’t realize how much experience they already have. Professional skills aren’t just gained through internships. They’re built every day through:

Classes and group projects

Student organizations and leadership roles

Part-time jobs and on-campus employment

Volunteering and community involvement

You can help by asking questions like:

“What kinds of projects have you enjoyed?”

“What problems do people come to you for help with?”

If your student has trouble naming their skills, Career Services offers tools and information to help students identify and talk about what they’ve gained, and how it connects to future roles.

Share that career paths aren’t always straight lines

If your own career path (or that of someone you know) took a few turns, share that story. Many students feel pressure to have everything figured out right now, and it might help put things in perspective.

Remind them:

It’s normal for career paths to change.

Taking a next step matters more than choosing a “perfect” job.

Learning what doesn’t fit can be just as valuable as learning what does.

If your Buff is looking for more guidance, career advisors can also help students explore majors, interests and options without pressure to commit to one path.

Encourage values-based conversations

Careers aren’t just about job titles—they’re also about what matters to a student.

You might ask:

“What kinds of challenges do you want to help solve?”

“What kind of work environment feels right to you?”

Career Services offers tools like Career Values Card Sort and SparkPath Challenge Cards to help students think about how their values connect to the types of work they may enjoy. These can be great conversation starters and a way to start exploring.

Normalize networking as relationship-building

For many students, “networking” sounds intimidating. It can help to reframe it as simply learning from others.

Let your student know:

Networking starts the moment they enroll at CU—faculty, staff supervisors and peers can all be in their network.

Conversations—not job asks—are the goal.

It’s okay to be curious and ask questions.

Students can tap into the CU network through:

Forever Buffs Network, where they can connect directly with alumni

LinkedIn’s alumni tool, to see where CU graduates work and what roles they hold

Career events and employer visits on campus

Explore part-time jobs and experiences

Hands-on experience helps students build confidence and skills early.

Encourage your student to:

Log into Handshake and explore jobs, internships and events

Use keywords tied to interests—not just majors

Look at curated job searches and on-campus opportunities

On-campus student employment is a great way to earn money, build a resume and practice professional skills in a supportive environment.

Encourage them to show up, even if they’re unsure

Career fairs and events are designed for exploration, not perfection. All students of all majors are welcome at events like the Just in Time Career and Internship Fair on April 2. Showing up, asking questions and practicing conversations are wins on their own.

Remind them they don’t have to do this alone

If these conversations feel like a big leap, that’s okay. Career Services is here to help students:

Explore majors and career interests

Take career assessments

Build resumes and practice interviews

Make a plan—step by step

Students can meet with a career advisor one-on-one or stop by during drop‑in hours, no matter their major or career goals.

Here are a few ways to approach career conversations with your student, plus tools and resources that can help along the way.

Zebra Striped

White

Start planning for spring 2026 commencement

Anonymous — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:42:54 +0000

Start planning for spring 2026 commencement Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 02/24/2026 - 13:42

Spring commencement will be here before you know it, and now is a great time to start planning your trip to Boulder. Graduation is a special milestone for college students, and planning ahead can help you and your Buff enjoy the celebration. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for commencement.

Encourage your student to apply for graduation

Each student must officially apply to graduate. Encourage your student to review important deadlines and make a plan to apply for spring graduation. You’ll also learn more about preparing for graduation day, including purchasing a cap and gown and ordering graduation announcements.

Prepare for your visit to Boulder

Commencement weekend is a busy time in Boulder, so planning ahead can make your visit more enjoyable. Hotels and vacation rentals tend to fill up quickly, particularly in Boulder, so you may want to book lodging early or explore nearby areas.

Restaurants are also in high demand during graduation. Consider making reservations ahead of time. Downtown Boulder’s dining guide and events calendar are great places to find dining and entertainment options during your stay.

Commencement Ceremony details

The university commencement ceremony will be held 8:30 a.m. Saturday, May 2, at Folsom Field. The event does not require tickets or registration. This traditional ceremony celebrates the academic accomplishments of all our graduates.

The commencement ceremony lasts approximately 90 minutes and features a processional of the graduates, conferral of degrees, remarks from �鶹��Ƶ leadership and other celebratory elements. Learn more about the commencement ceremony.

Recognition ceremonies

Commencement includes two types of events:

A campuswide commencement ceremony

Individual recognition ceremonies hosted by colleges, schools, departments and programs

Students and families are encouraged to attend both.

Your student may be invited to participate in one or more recognition ceremonies. At these events, students are recognized individually as they cross the stage and receive a diploma cover. Diplomas are mailed to students after commencement. Learn more about spring recognition ceremonies.

Traditional

White

5 ways your student can get involved this spring

Emily Sampl — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 22:37:30 +0000

5 ways your student can get involved this spring Emily Sampl Wed, 01/28/2026 - 15:37

Participating in campus activities is a great way for students to meet new people and make friends. It can also help them explore hobbies, stay active and discover career paths. Here are some ways your student can get involved this spring.

1. Join a student organization or program

Your Buff can find student organizations that match their interests on BuffConnect. Here are a few other options they could consider:

Fraternity and Sorority Life: Students can make lifelong friendships, gain leadership skills and give back to their community.
Intramural sports: Students can join a team or register as a free agent.
Sustainable Buffs Community: Students can get involved with sustainability and climate action at �鶹��Ƶ.

2. Attend student events

Encourage your student to explore various events, workshops, and opportunities to meet others, including:

3. Take advantage of leadership opportunities

There are plenty of opportunities on campus for students to build new skills and meet fellow Buffs. Your student could consider joining a leadership program, like CU GOLD or Journey Leaders, or participating on a student board.

4. Volunteer

Volunteering is another great way for students to meet others on campus and in the Boulder community. Encourage your student to connect with Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) to find opportunities to fit their schedule. They could also check out CU in the Community for one-time service events or search CUServes for options within Boulder.

5. Work on campus

In addition to earning money, working on campus is a convenient way for Buffs to meet new people and gain work experience. One of the major perks of working at an on-campus job is flexibility. Most on-campus jobs and paid research studies offer flexible scheduling to fit with your student’s classes and other commitments. They can explore on-campus job opportunities on Handshake.

Traditional

White

Supporting your student when they’re sick

Emily Sampl — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 17:44:24 +0000

Supporting your student when they’re sick Emily Sampl Fri, 01/23/2026 - 10:44

As the semester gets busy, it’s natural to worry if your student comes down with a cold, flu or another common illness. Even from afar, your calm encouragement can help them feel more supported and prepared. Here are some simple ways you can help guide them through getting sick while at school.

Encourage your student to stay home

If your student isn’t feeling well, remind them that it’s okay—and important—to stay home and rest. Staying away from others (including roommates when possible) helps prevent illnesses from spreading. Wearing a mask can also reduce the risk of passing respiratory viruses to the people they live with.

If they need to miss class or work, encourage them to:

Email instructors or supervisors to let them know they’re sick

Mention any assignments due and offer to make up the work

Discuss a plan with instructors if they expect to be out for more than a day or two

Contact Disability Services if they have a temporary condition like an extended illness, injury or surgery

Most students can return to normal activities after at least 24 hours of improving symptoms and no fever.

Help them monitor symptoms

Many illnesses share similar symptoms—fever, fatigue, headaches and sore throat can show up with colds, flu, strep throat, mono and COVID. Testing can help your student understand what they might be dealing with.

Your student can:

Schedule testing at Wardenburg Health Center or a local clinic

Pick up COVID or flu at‑home test kits at the Apothecary Pharmacy on campus or other local pharmacies

Wear a mask if they’re unsure what they have, especially around others

While sick, most students can care for themselves at home with basic remedies such as:

Drinking plenty of water, tea or electrolyte drinks

Getting extra rest

Using cough drops, saltwater gargles or honey for sore throats

Taking over‑the‑counter medications for fever, nausea or other symptoms

On‑campus resources for student:

Free illness‑care supplies at Wardenburg’s Wellness Suite (third floor) and Village Center Wellness

Free cold‑care kits delivered to residence halls through the Buff Box program

Test kits, OTC medications and prescriptions at the Apothecary Pharmacy

Help them know when to seek care

If your student is unsure what to do, encourage them to call their primary care provider or Medical Services at 303‑492‑5101. They can also schedule a same‑day nurse call through their MyCUHealth portal. A nurse can help them understand their symptoms and decide whether to stay home or visit a clinic.

For after-hours care, �鶹��Ƶ Medical Services has partnered with the TimelyCare mobile app to offer all students free access to telehealth medical support. Encourage your student to create an account at timelycare.com/cuboulder to get started.

They should seek emergency care right away if they have:

Trouble breathing

Chest pain or pressure

Sudden confusion

Difficulty staying awake

Blue or gray lips, face or skin

If they’re experiencing severe symptoms and aren’t sure where to go, they should contact a medical provider for guidance or call 911 in an emergency.

With your reassurance, and the resources available on campus, your student can feel more confident navigating illness and getting back to their routines when they’re ready.

As the semester picks up pace, it’s completely understandable to feel concerned if your college student faces common illnesses like the flu or a cold. Even from afar, your encouragement and support can make a meaningful difference. With a few caring tips, you can help your student feel prepared and confident if they get sick while away at school.

Off

Traditional

White

Buff Family News

Preparing for your student to come home for the summer

Talk about expectations ahead of time

Be ready for challenging conversations

Build a routine together

Support healthy ways to cope

Find support

Related Articles

Know before you go: Commencement 2026

Arrive early

Review parking and transportation details

Know what to bring (and not bring)

Make a plan with your student in advance

Get last-minute updates

Share your experience

Off

Be prepared for the 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Planning your arrival

Expect traffic and arrive early

Accessibility and accommodations

Commencement Ceremony details

What to bring (and what to leave at home)

Seating and ceremony timing

Build your full celebration schedule

Have questions?

Related Articles

Move out tips and summer storage

Donate items

On-campus residents: Give and Go Donation Drive

Off-campus residents: Drop-off locations on The Hill

Store items

Summer storage

Bike storage on campus

Dispose of items that can’t be donated

Off

Supporting your student through finals

Everyday tools and habits that support well‑being

How families can support their student

Campus support and mental health resources

Related Articles

From Vice Chancellor Mull: Celebrating Buffs All In together

Buffs All In

Join me and get involved

How Buffs make a difference

Off

Tips for talking with your student about their future

Start with listening, not solving

Help them see the skills they’re already building

Share that career paths aren’t always straight lines

Encourage values-based conversations

Normalize networking as relationship-building

Explore part-time jobs and experiences

Encourage them to show up, even if they’re unsure

Remind them they don’t have to do this alone

Related Articles

Start planning for spring 2026 commencement

Encourage your student to apply for graduation

Prepare for your visit to Boulder

Commencement Ceremony details

Recognition ceremonies

Related Articles

5 ways your student can get involved this spring

1. Join a student organization or program

2. Attend student events

3. Take advantage of leadership opportunities

4. Volunteer

5. Work on campus

Related Articles

Supporting your student when they’re sick

Encourage your student to stay home

Help them monitor symptoms

Help them know when to seek care

Off