Rushing to finish assignments or study for tests can sometimes lead to academic dishonesty—where students engage in plagiarism, cheating or helping another student gain an unfair advantage. Whatever the intention, these actions violate the Honor Code and have consequences.  

Here are four strategies to help avoid these issues. 

Review your syllabus 

Faculty include expectations for their course that you must follow in their syllabus. This information will likely be different for each class.   

Check each of your class syllabi for specific course expectations. For example, some professors don't allow collaboration or use of AI for assignments. Ask your instructor for clarification if you have any questions about the expectations stated in the syllabus. 

There are also campus-wide Honor Code expectations that apply to every class. For instance, resubmitting your own work without faculty permission is a violation of the Honor Code. You also cannot self-plagiarize your work⁠—meaning you must cite any previously written work you use while completing a new assignment. You cannot reuse your own work without that citation. Review the Student Honor Code & Procedures and ask your instructor questions.   

Start coursework early 

Avoid procrastination by starting assignments and studying early. Use a calendar or planner to track important dates and deadlines. This gives you time to ask for help if needed. 

Complete work on your own 

Academic dishonesty is any act in which a student gains or attempts to gain an unfair academic advantage over other students regardless of intention. Helping another student gain an unfair academic advantage is also considered academic dishonesty.  

With every test, paper, project, lab and assignment, be sure to complete your own work unless the written directions specifically allow you to work with others.    

• You may be able to talk through your work with another student or a study group but don’t share your work. Once you send it to another person, you don’t have control over how it’s shared or used.   
• Don’t search for answers on the internet unless expressly permitted. Especially with online learning, be careful to use resources authorized by your instructors for help. If specific online resources are allowed, write your researched answers in your own words instead of copying and pasting what you found online. 
• Don’t use AI to write papers or answer questions on assignments unless you have permission from your professor. Talk with your professor if you have questions about if and how you can use AI. Learn more about AI and the Honor Code. 
• Nearly any assignment you submit online could be analyzed for similarity to other sources, so cite your sources when appropriate. 
• Exams, including online and take-home exams, should be completed independently unless your instructor states otherwise in the syllabus or exam instructions. 

Find support 

Whether you’re looking for help citing sources or struggling with a concept discussed in class, asking for help is okay. Attend your instructor’s office hours listed on their syllabus, or use academic and tutoring resources.  

Learn more about the Honor Code. 

Did you know using someone else’s clicker in class is a violation? Or do you know what to do if you want to use a project from another course? Test your Honor Code knowledge with this quiz. 

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It can be challenging to talk with people who do not share your point of view. However, talking through differences is an essential skill that can build trust and strengthen relationships. Acknowledging other’s perspectives can allow us to explore differing opinions, learn and grow.  

Here are some ways to turn a difficult conversation into a thoughtful discussion. 

Approach the conversation with an open mind 

Living, learning and working on a college campus offers many opportunities to explore new ideas. We can empower ourselves to think critically about different points of view when we listen with authentic curiosity and give space for others to express their thoughts and opinions.   

Start by recognizing that our cultural backgrounds and life experiences shape our worldviews. Work to understand how others’ beliefs and ideas have been formed and reflect on how you came to hold your attitudes and opinions.   

Prioritize listening 

In a dialogue, people often formulate their response while the other person is talking instead of fully paying attention to what’s being said. When trying to have a thoughtful conversation with someone, the goal should not be to debunk each other’s points or bombard someone with facts or opinions.  

Instead of listening to respond, try listening to understand. Setting the intention to listen will help you approach the conversation more openly rather than coming to it with set points and arguments.  

Give the person you are talking to your full attention when they are speaking. Ask clarifying questions and be genuine when inviting them to share more. This practice helps us become better communicators and makes others feel heard, which is vital for open conversations. 

Ask them to reciprocate these actions when it is your turn to speak. We can create a space to share our views without judgment or jumping to conclusions. When we offer space to others, it helps them understand us in return. 

Practice effective communication strategies 

Having good communication skills can help direct the conversation in a healthy way. Here are skills to use when talking with someone with a different perspective:  

• Be mindful. Our passion for a topic may bring up strong feelings— we are only in control of what we say and how we say it, so our tone and demeanor matter. Arguing may feel satisfying, but it’s often an ineffective communication tool.
• Ask open-ended questions. Get curious about where the other person is coming from and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of how the person has come to their perspective.  
• Use reflections to clarify. Reflecting back to the person our understanding of what we think they are sharing can allow them to explain their meaning and correct misinterpretations. We don’t have to agree with someone to show that we are working to understand them. 
• Acknowledge different perspectives. Whether we agree with someone’s position or not, we can acknowledge or affirm what is important to them and the values that form their perspective. Recognizing a shared value (such as caring for others, autonomy, honesty or integrity) that underlies a viewpoint can be a way of bridging differences. 

Before we share our perspective, we can summarize our understanding of where the other person is coming from. We can avoid dismissing them by using “and”—not “but”—when offering our ideas or opinions. For example, we might say, “I hear where you are coming from, and I see it differently. From my perspective...” This transition may help avoid putting the other person on the defensive.  

We can always leave space to revisit an issue and end with an appreciation for the person willing to talk things through. 

Find support 

��������Ƶ Boulder offers programs and spaces for people to share their perspectives and learn skills to have thoughtful conversations. 

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR) 
SCCR helps students develop skills for having challenging conversations through conflict coaching, mediation and consultation services. 

Center for Inclusion & Social Change (CISC) 
CISC offers various events, programs and groups where students, faculty and staff can join fellow Buffs to share their experiences and learn from others in a safe space. 

Center for Student Involvement (CSI) 
CSI offers resources for student activism and guidance for Buffs looking to get more involved in civic engagement.  

��������Ƶ Student Government (��������ƵSG) 
��������ƵSG, the official governing and representative body of the student population, provides a space for Buffs to bring attention to and respectfully discuss issues they are passionate about. 

Office of Institutional Equity & Compliance (OIEC)  
OIEC offers skills-based workshops for students, faculty and staff to effectively work across differences and build healthy workplaces, classrooms and relationships. 

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For many students, midterms are just around the corner. Here are some underrated study hacks to help you ace your midterms. 

Practice the study cycle 

The “study cycle” is an effective strategy that can help you be more efficient with your time. There are four steps to the cycle: 

• Before class, preview the material you’ll cover. Skim the chapter, note headings and bold words, review chapter summaries and have questions prepared for the lecture.
• Attend class—take notes and ask questions.
• Review your notes as soon as possible after class.
• Schedule time in your week to study the material again. Review your notes, handouts or other readings. 

Know your learning style 

Are you a visual learner? Do you remember things more when you hear them? This find the methods that work best for you to learn and study. Here are some strategies that may work for your learning style. 

• Visual: Underline or highlight your notes. Look for videos, graphs or charts to review information further. Create graphs or charts to organize information.
• Aural: Read your notes out loud and record them on your phone to listen to later. Talk over concepts with a classmate or study group.
• Read/write: Rewrite your notes. Look for other books or resources on the same subject to read.
• Kinesthetic: Think of real-world examples when reviewing your notes. Try to use as many senses as possible when studying. For example, try taking a walk while reviewing your notecards. 

Take breaks 

Taking short breaks during study sessions can help you stay focused and retain information better. Try the Pomodoro Technique to build short breaks into your study sessions: 

• Choose a task to work on—maybe reading a chapter, writing the intro for a paper or solving math problems.
• Set a timer for 25 minutes. Put your phone away and eliminate as many distractions as possible.
• Focus on the task until the timer goes off.
• Set your timer for five minutes and do whatever you’d like during this time. Check your phone, get a snack, stretch—whatever gives your brain a break!
• Reset your timer for 25 minutes and repeat. 

Get creative and try a new approach 

Here are some other study hacks to try: 

• Pretend you're preparing to teach a class on the subject. Think of how you could explain the material to fellow students.
• Think about concepts more critically and try to create examples or practice problems from the material to test your knowledge.
• Rather than studying one subject for a long time, try switching between subjects to allow your brain to form connections and understand the content more deeply.
• Study in testing conditions. Learning the content in a similar setting and with similar conditions to your testing environment can help you form associations between those conditions and the course content.   

Ask for help 

If you’re stuck on a problem or a concept discussed in class, ask for help and use your resources. 

• Talk to a classmate. 
• Visit office hours or a help lab.
• Consider joining or starting a study group.
• If you live on campus or are a first-year student, check out the Academic Success & Achievement Program for free tutoring support.
• If you need help writing a paper, visit The Writing Center.
• If you have a large research project, University offers consultations to help you get started.
• Review more academic resources for students.  

Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting started. Schedule time in your week to study and do your best to stay on track. Find a favorite place to study, like a coffee shop, library or community room in your residence hall. Establishing study routines and finding the right study spot can help you feel prepared for midterms. 

Resources

Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)
ASAP links all first-year students and students living on campus to study resources and free peer tutoring. ASAP also offers the Lending Library, allowing students to check out books for many general education and lower division classes.

Peer Wellness Coaching
Need help managing stress, creating a study routine or preparing for exams? Meet one-on-one with a trained peer wellness coach to learn effective strategies and connect with campus resources.

Let's Talk
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides free drop-in services around campus during Let's Talk hours. Stop by to talk with a counselor about stress, anxiety, self-care, academics or other topics you need support with. 

Center for Disability and Access
If you’re planning to use testing accommodations through Disability Services, make sure you’re on the same page as your instructors about how they’ll be administered. Your dedicated access coordinator can help answer any additional questions or concerns.

Free Friday Power Hour
Take a break from studying and blow off some steam at the Rec Center. They offer free fitness classes every Friday during Free Friday Power Hour.

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During our college years, we can face many new experiences and challenges. These can range from mental health issues to hospitalizations and family emergencies. These challenges can be unexpected and may affect academic success and overall well-being.  

If you notice a friend acting differently or struggling, know that you can play a part in getting them support. Here are options and resources to help you support your friend.  

Find support for yourself 

We do not have to be the sole support systems for our friends. It is OK to care for ourselves and seek support when deciding how to help a friend.  

Staff in the Dean of Students office are here for you to ask questions and get support for you and your friends. The Dean of Students office can help you understand your options and connect you to appropriate resources. 

Learn to recognize signs of distress 

If you think a friend needs help, observe for signs of distress. These can be changes in behavior related to academic, physical, psychological or safety risk concerns. Here are some common signs to be aware of:  

Academic 

• Sudden decline in grades 
• No longer attending classes 
• Classroom disruptions 
• Failure to study or work on school assignments 
• Academic assignments dominated by themes of extreme hopelessness, helplessness, isolation, rage, despair, violence or self-harm 

Physical 

• Marked changes in physical appearance like poor grooming or hygiene or sudden changes in weight 
• Strange or bizarre behavior indicating loss of contact with reality 
• Visibly intoxicated or smelling of alcohol or marijuana 
• Rapid speech or manic behavior 
• Depressed or lethargic mood or functioning  
• Observable signs of injury like facial bruising or cuts  

Psychological 

• Self-disclosure of personal distress like family problems, financial difficulties, assault, discrimination or legal difficulties 
• Unusual or disproportionate emotional response to events 
• Excessive tearfulness, panic reactions 
• Verbal abuse like taunting, badgering or intimidation 
• Expressions of concern from other friends  

Safety risk 

• Verbal, written or implied references to suicide, homicide, assault or self-harm behavior 
• Unprovoked anger or hostility 
• Physical violence like shoving, grabbing, assaulting or use of a weapon 
• Stalking or harassing  
• Communicating threats or disturbing comments in person or via email, text or phone call  

Start a compassionate conversation 

When we notice changes in a friend or sense they may be struggling, it's normal to feel anxious about addressing our concerns. If you feel safe, you can take time to talk with your friend—which may increase the chances of them getting help.  

Start the conversation privately to let them know you’re worried and genuinely care about how they’re doing. Take time to listen to what they have to say.  

If there is an imminent danger to you, your friend or someone else, call 911. Rely on emergency personnel to expertly handle the situation if your friend’s conduct is reckless, disorderly, dangerous or threatening.  

Refer them to Student Support & Case Management  

If your friend needs additional support, shows clear signs of distress, or you are feeling uneasy after an interaction with them, refer them to Student Support & Case Management (SSCM).   

Anyone can refer a student to SSCM. There are three ways to do so:  

• Fill out the
• Call SSCM at 303-492-7348
• Email the department at sscm@colorado.edu 

SSCM is available to provide individualized support to students. SSCM case managers connect students with campus partners, community resources and support systems while building a trusting relationship and coaching them toward self-advocacy. 

SSCM can even help students with financial challenges after unexpected situations, such as recovering from physical or mental health emergencies or traveling to support their loved ones in need.   

If you are unsure whether to refer your friend, contact SSCM for guidance. Some of the more common reasons to refer a student to SSCM include, but are not limited to:  

• Concern for a student’s mental health 
• Hospitalization (physical or mental health) 
• Suicidal ideation 
• Harm to self or others 
• Loss of a loved one 
• Family emergency 
• Food insecurity 
• Housing insecurity 
• Financial concerns 
• Threatening behavior  

Know that SSCM is a non-confidential service. This means if you disclose that you or someone else has been impacted by sexual misconduct, protected-class discrimination or harassment, intimate partner violence, stalking or related retaliation, SSCM is required to share that information with the (OIEC) for outreach regarding support and reporting options. You are not required to respond to OIEC. If you need support, OIEC provides a list of resources, including confidential assistance. If you have questions before you want to submit this type of information, please contact the confidential .  

Additional resources 

In addition to SSCM, ��������Ƶ Boulder provides a wide range of campus resources for students facing challenges. 

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

CAPS is the primary mental health service on campus. They provide short-term counseling, community referrals, consultations, workshops, group therapy and more. CAPS is also available to provide insight and direction for friends or loved ones who want to support their peers.  

 Confidential resource

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

There may be times when a friend wants to speak confidentially or hypothetically about sexual misconduct, intimate partner abuse, stalking, discrimination or harassment. OVA is a free and confidential resource that supports students through traumatic or life-changing events through short-term counseling, advocacy and more.  

 Confidential resource

AcademicLiveCare (ALC)

AcademicLiveCare is a free telehealth platform that allows students to schedule medical and mental health appointments virtually. Students can use this program to see board-certified healthcare professionals from home, campus or anywhere they go. You only need a smartphone, computer, tablet or other mobile device.  

Basic Needs Center (BNC)

The Basic Needs Center is a campus care collective for students seeking assistance accessing essential food, housing and resources. Plus, it provides support in emergencies. The center also offers education on navigating local and national food and emergency housing resources.   

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Attending your professors' office hours is a great way to set yourself up for success this semester. Office hours allow you to interact with your professor one-on-one, ask questions and get clarification about course information. Students may feel intimidated to meet one-on-one with their professors, but your professors are excited to see you. They want you to do well and appreciate when students take the time to attend office hours. It’s a great opportunity to get to know your professors as people and not just academic experts.  

Visiting office hours early in the semester and working with your professors can build confidence as the semester progresses. Here are a few ways to make the most of meetings with your professors.  

Identify your needs 

Even if you don’t have an academic reason to attend office hours early in the semester, you can introduce yourself to your professor. Meeting your professor now can make it easier to go later in the semester if you have a question or need help. There are many reasons to go to office hours as the semester progresses: 

• You want clarification on an assignment or a grade you’ve received.
• You’ve missed a class or classes.
• You’re interested in a topic and want to do further research.
• You want career advice.
• You’re having issues with a classmate.
• You’re looking for an academic mentor.
• You’re more comfortable asking questions directly to the professor. 

Be prepared 

Find out when your professor’s office hours are by checking your syllabus. If you have time conflicts with office hours and other classes, contact your professor directly to request a meeting at a different time. Be sure to provide times you are available and ask what works best for them.  

Come prepared with questions and concerns you have about the course. Office hours are helpful for a variety of reasons. You can ask questions and learn about their teaching style early in the semester. Here are some questions you could ask: 

• Do you have any tips on the best ways to study or understand the material?
• Are there any major concepts I should prioritize learning?
• Will you review a draft of papers before students turn in the final product?
• How does a concept we discussed in class relate to the reading material?
• Can we go over the material I missed during my absence? 

Maximize your time 

During your meeting, stay present mentally to get the most out of your professor’s time. Here are some things to try during your meeting: 

• Ask the most important questions first.
• Bring any assignments with you that you plan to discuss.
• Take notes that help you better understand your questions.
• Be respectful and stay engaged.
• Set up a follow-up meeting with your professor if you need additional help. 

Follow up 

After attending office hours, follow up via email and thank your professor for answering your questions. If you have unanswered questions from your meeting, include them in your follow-up email. 

Don’t forget to compile the notes you took during office hours and add them to your study notes where necessary. Try to apply them to new practice problems to help internalize your learning. 

Campus resources

Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)

ASAP links all first-year students and students living on campus to study resources and free peer tutoring. ASAP also offers the Lending Library, allowing students to check out textbooks for many general education and lower division classes.

Tutoring resources

��������Ƶ Boulder offers various tutoring and learning resources to support you and your academic success. Some are specific to certain classes, departments or groups of students. Most are free, while some require a fee.

Embedded Programs

�䱫’s&�Բ�����;Embedded Program helps connect students with counseling, wellness and trauma services directly through their college or school. Students can access this program on their own or be referred by a staff or faculty member.

Peer Wellness Coaching

Peer wellness coaches are trained students who can help you meet new people, make friends, create study plans, practice self-care, set goals and more. Coaching sessions are free and open to all ��������Ƶ Boulder students.

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Between hanging out with friends, working and keeping up with classes, your schedule can get packed fast. But don’t worry! Here are some time management tips to help you stay on track this semester and still have time for fun. 

Get organized 

First, get yourself organized. Whether you prefer a calendar, planner or an app, use something to keep track of your schedule and responsibilities. Mark down things like exam dates, project deadlines, work shifts, club meetings, study sessions and any other commitments. Regularly check your calendar to see what’s coming up and prioritize what needs to be done. 

Block out study times 

Set aside specific times each week just for studying or reviewing class materials. Having a routine can help balance schoolwork with social activities and keep you prepared for midterms and finals.  

Plan your study sessions

Break down big assignments like papers, projects or exams into smaller tasks with deadlines. This way, you can make steady progress and avoid last-minute stress. For group projects, discuss with your team how to divide tasks and who’s responsible for what. Having a plan helps prevent procrastination and keeps you on top of your work. 

Fight distractions

While you're studying, try turning off your phone or leaving it out of reach to help you focus. Set a timer for a focused study session—maybe 15 or 20 minutes—then take a 5-minute break when the timer goes off. Stretch, check your phone or grab a snack. Repeat the process to stay focused and get your work done faster. 

Ask for help 

If you’re stuck on a problem or don’t understand something from class, don’t struggle alone. Text a classmate, visit your professor during office hours or join a study group.  

You can also find support through the Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP), which is available to all first-year students, new transfers and students living on campus, and other campus academic resources. The sooner you ask for help, the less likely you are to fall behind. 

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It's time to start thinking about your living arrangements for next year. Whether you're moving off campus for the first time or are familiar with the Boulder/Denver region, consider these tips from Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. 

Explore different options  

Research different neighborhoods and housing options to find what works for you. Popular Boulder neighborhood areas for students include The Hill, Martin Acres, East Aurora, Goss Grove and North Boulder.  Students may want to consider researching properties in neighboring communities such as Longmont, Superior, Louisville or Lafayette that have bus routes to campus. 

• Create a budget that includes rent, utilities, internet and other expenses to determine what you can afford.
• Look at public transportation options.   
• Check out the crime rates.
• Ask other students about their experiences living in their neighborhoods.  

Use to filter available properties by neighborhood and city, price and more. This resource also helps in finding roommates. 

Consider transportation needs 

As you explore different neighborhoods and cities/communities, you can also research your potential commute to campus by reviewing public transportation options.  

Many students ride the bus for free with their Buff OneCard. has routes that serve all of Boulder and nearby communities.  

Attend the Spring Off-Campus Housing Fair  

Stop by the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom on Feb. 20 and explore options at the . Property managers, city offices and vendors will attend, and you can ask questions and explore more resources related to living in Boulder. There are always lots of free giveaways and food! 

Learn about city ordinances  

As you prepare to live off campus, familiarize yourself with local laws to avoid tickets and other consequences.   

• Review the .
• Learn about the new chronic nuisance ordinance that went into effect Sept. 7, 2024, and other city ordinances.
• Keep noise levels within prescribed limits for residential areas.
• Never leave trash in your yard and use trash receptacles appropriately (especially if you live in a neighborhood that requires bear-resistant trash containers like the Hill).
• Register your parties with Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. If a neighbor makes a noise complaint about your address, Boulder Police will notify you and issue a warning—rather than an expensive ticket. This warning gives you 20 minutes to shut down the party before police are dispatched to your house or apartment and can help you avoid a noise or nuisance ticket.  

Get legal advice   

A lease is a legal contract that students should understand before signing. Before signing a lease, you can with attorney Bruce Sarbaugh through Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations for a free lease review before signing. Students can also get free legal advice on other rental concerns, from lease agreements to landlord disputes.  

Student Legal Services also provides free lease reviews and landlord/tenant consultations. Learn more about scheduling an appointment.  

Find support 

Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations offers opportunities and resources to students living off campus. With students who are seeking housing, they help educate them on their rights and responsibilities as tenants and assist students in resolving landlord/tenant problems and/or roommate conflicts. Stop by their office in UMC 313 or email och@colorado.edu to get insights from a neighborhood ambassador for advice on living in Boulder.     

Beyond Campus Buffs also provides support for first-year students living off campus and all commuter students. Stop by the Commuter Lounge in UMC 102 to find out more. 

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Living with roommates, whether in the residence halls or off campus, can be a great experience. It may also bring new challenges and responsibilities. This semester might be the first time you’ve had to share space or live with someone you’ve never met.  

While many Buffs get along with their roommates, disagreements can happen. This is normal and working through conflict often leads to growth and stronger relationships. Here are some tips for creating a positive living environment and navigating conflict if it comes up. 

1. Get to know your roommate 

Seek out things you and your roommate have in common and allow space for differences. Even if you already know your roommate well, take time to talk about the upcoming semester and your routines.   

Learn each other’s schedules to be mindful and respectful of each person’s needs. For example, you may have an early class and prefer to go to bed early, while your roommate may work a late schedule and want to sleep in. Communication is key to understanding each other’s habits, schedules and preferences.   

2. Set ground rules together 

As you get to know your roommate, this is a great time to establish ground rules to prevent misunderstandings later. Topics you could discuss include: 

• Guests: Are you okay with overnight guests? Are there times of the day or evening you prefer not to have guests over?
• Chores: Who’s responsible for cleaning common areas or taking out the trash, and how often? Will you set up a schedule for completing chores?
• Shared belongings: What items in your space will be shared (electronics, appliances, supplies, food, etc.)? Are there certain items that you prefer not to be shared?
• Finances: How will bills be divided and paid if you live off campus and are responsible for rent and utilities?  

Creating a roommate agreement is an easy way to discuss and agree on expectations with your roommate. If you live on campus, your resident advisor (RA) will work with you to set one up. If you live off campus, use this free roommate agreement template.   

3. Be open to compromise  

During your discussion, there might be preferences between you and your roommate that could cause conflict or topics that you don't initially agree on. However, you may also find that you can compromise on issues that aren’t as important.    

For example, if you like to study on Friday afternoons and your roommate likes to invite friends over at the end of the week, you could study at the library instead of asking for quiet hours. Finding areas of compromise and respecting each other’s preferences can help you both feel more comfortable in your living environment.   

4. Respect each other’s space and belongings 

Living in the residence halls or apartments can mean tight quarters, but you and your roommate still have a right to privacy and boundaries.  

• Ask before you borrow items belonging to your roommate, including food, clothes and toiletries.
• Share plans with your roommate that might affect them, like if you’ve invited guests or are going out of town for the weekend.
• Respect the ground rules that you’ve set up together—quiet hours, responsibilities with chores, etc. 
• If you live in separate bedrooms, always knock before you enter their room.   

5. Address issues quickly and in person  

It’s best to address roommate issues quickly before they fester. Discuss any important topics or reminders with your roommate in person, if possible. Bringing up issues through texting, social media or sticky notes might lead to miscommunication or increased frustrations. A simple reminder to “take out the trash” could become something more than we intended.   

Instead, give yourself time to think through how you can express your needs before approaching your roommate. Using “I” statements to describe how the situation makes you feel is a helpful way to start. For example, “I feel frustrated when guests eat my snacks because it’s hard for me to make it to the grocery store.”   

Remember that respect goes both ways. Listen for understanding and ask follow-up questions during the conversation. Resist the urge to formulate a response to what the other person is saying while they’re speaking. Instead, focus on the emotions, issues and reasoning behind what your roommate says to help find a solution. 

If you are nervous about talking with your roommate, connect with your RA or Conflict Resolution to help mediate the conversation. Remember that conflict can be a good thing. Even though it may seem daunting, talking it through can lead to a healthier relationship with your new roommate.  

6. Find support 

Students have access to a variety of resources to help resolve roommate conflicts. Contact Student Support and Case Management or Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution for guidance if you're ever concerned about your roommate.   

Resident advisors (RAs) 
Students living on campus can reach out to their RA for more support. RAs are a great resource to help mediate conversations and find common ground. Be sure to talk with your roommate beforehand and schedule a time with your RA to discuss potential or unresolved issues.  

Residence Life 
Residence Life helps students who live on campus build community, engage in leadership opportunities and make the most of their stay in the residence halls. They offer a variety of events, tutoring services, employment opportunities and more.  

Conflict Resolution 
All students can visit Conflict Resolution, whether they live on or off campus. They can help you navigate conflicts between roommates, significant others, professors, classmates or others. They also offer free workshops, mediation and coaching sessions to help you improve your conflict management and resolution skills.  

Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations  
Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations is here to help students with all aspects of living off campus. This includes searching for an apartment or roommate, understanding Boulder housing options, providing free lease reviews with our staff attorney, navigating roommate disagreements, understanding Boulder ordinances and advocating for tenant rights. 

Peer Wellness Coaching 
Peer wellness coaches provide peer-to-peer support and are available to meet with students living on or off campus. They can help you navigate concerns related to roommates, relationships, stress, finances and more. Peer wellness coaches can also help you set goals, connect with other resources and create self-care plans.  

Center for Inclusion and Social Change  
The Center for Inclusion and Social Change works with LGBTQ+ students living on and off campus. They can provide information on gender-inclusive residence hall programs, gender-neutral facilities and more. Their office can also help students find inclusive housing and roommates who will be welcoming and supportive.  

Disability Services 
Disability Services works with University Housing to provide reasonable on-campus housing and dining accommodations for students with disabilities. Students interested in obtaining housing or dining accommodations must register with Disability Services and provide documentation before they can submit a new accommodations request.  

Student Legal Services  
Student Legal Services helps students resolve or minimize their legal situations so they can focus on school. Consultations about landlord/tenant matters are free. Representation for other legal issues is available for a fraction of the cost of a private attorney to all ��������Ƶ Boulder students paying student activity fees. 

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While people often joke about being a broke college student, nothing is funny about experiencing food or housing insecurity. The reality is that many students do not have the money to cover all of their expenses, which can impact their living situation and food supply.  

At ��������Ƶ Boulder, the Basic Needs Center offers support to students facing food and housing insecurity. Students can access the Buff Pantry once per week to receive select grocery items of their choosing. The Basic Needs Center can also help students apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to support their food budget. can find support through the center’s case management support, emergency housing fund, educational programs and referrals to services.  

The week of Nov. 10-15 is Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. This annual event raises awareness of the problems of hunger and homelessness. In honor of this awareness week, here are five ways to help a friend experiencing food or housing insecurity.  

1. Be mindful of the stigma  

One of the biggest hurdles preventing students from reaching out for or accepting support is the stigma surrounding food and housing insecurity. While it can feel isolating, students who face these issues are not alone. According to the , three out of five students experience food or housing insecurity while attending higher education.  

You can help normalize the experience and combat the stigma by listening or observing non-judgmentally.  

2. Learn about resources and programs  

You can educate yourself to be a more effective ally. Part of being able to help others is understanding the available resources and methods of support. The Basic Needs Center website offers resources for food and housing support. You can request workshops on money management, cooking basics and housing tips.  

You can review resources and attend events to expand your knowledge and equip yourself to help others. Then, you can share those resources.  

3. Go together  

Seeking help can feel less intimidating if you go with a friend. You can offer your support by going together to the Basic Needs Center. You can also request an educational event or attend one of the monthly Ralphie’s Cooking Basics cooking classes with a friend.  

Not only does this show your support and increase your awareness of hunger and housing issues, but it can also help reduce the stigma.  

4. Refer a friend  

If you are worried about a peer, you can refer them to Student Support and Case Management (SSCM). To make a referral, you can , call 303-492-7348 or email sscm@colorado.edu. Someone from SSCM will view the form and either alert the Basic Needs Center to reach out or have one of their case managers reach out.  

You can also offer to go to SSCM together to support that person as they seek help.  

5. Volunteer your time  

You can support the Basic Needs Center by donating, organizing a food drive or volunteering to help with the Buff Pantry or a mobile food bank to see first-hand how the programs work. You can also connect with the or explore opportunities on to find other ways to support food or housing insecurity.  

Find support for food and housing insecurity 

If you or someone you know is dealing with food or housing insecurity, you are not alone. It’s important to remember that college students often struggle with these issues, and you can find support with the Basic Needs Center or SSCM. You can also refer a friend to connect them to resources.

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Before you go grocery shopping, here are some tips to help you stay in your budget, maximize your time and eat healthy. 

Make a meal plan  

Making a meal plan before grocery shopping can help save time and money and prevent food waste. When constructing a meal plan, include ingredients for dinners, lunches, breakfasts and snacks throughout the week.  

Be sure to account for leftovers as meals. Leftovers are a great way to stretch your food budget. You can take leftovers for lunch on campus or repurpose leftovers to create a new meal. Try to get creative and use every ingredient available to you, like using leftover vegetables to make soup. 

Use coupons  

Many grocery stores have weekly sales, deals and coupons. Download your grocery store’s app, check their website or pick up paper coupon magazines at store locations. Get in the habit of browsing coupons as you create your meal plan—you can adjust your plan to use the ingredients with cost-savings that week. 

Pay attention to the price per unit  

Sometimes, the lowest price isn’t necessarily the best price. Look at the price per unit at the bottom of the price tag. For example, a 12-ounce cereal box will likely cost less than a 24-ounce box. Yet, the price per unit may be less for the larger size. If your budget allows, you may save money in the long run by purchasing the larger box.   

Try more plant-based food options  

Diets high in meat are often expensive. You can save money by planning meals with plant-based ingredients like tofu and beans. These alternative protein sources are often cheaper but still maintain high nutritional value. 

Elevate simple meals  

Add simple ingredients to turn a wallet-friendly meal into a nutritious and hearty meal. For example, add vegetables (broccoli, onion, carrot) and protein (hard-boiled eggs, tofu, chicken) to instant noodle packets. Or add frozen berries or a cut-up banana to your cereal or granola for extra nutrition and flavor. 

Coordinate and share with your roommates  

IIf you live with roommates, you can agree to share specific items or meals to avoid duplicating costs. For example, you can share kitchen staples like butter, milk or coffee. As part of your meal plan, you can each cook dinner one night per week and split the cost of the food. Just ensure everyone is comfortable sharing and stays within the agreed-to budget. 

Swap items  

You can substitute the items you typically purchase for more affordable versions. Here are a few examples that can help you save.  

• Buy whole foods: Some foods are cheaper in less processed forms. For example, blocks of cheese tend to be cheaper than bags of shredded cheese.  
• Buy generic: Most stores have a variety of products under their generic brand. These products are often cheaper than the name brand for similar quality. 
• Buy produce in season: Local, in-season produce tends to be cheaper. You can find a complete list of produce by season on the . 
• Buy frozen produce: Frozen fruits and vegetables are often cheaper than out-of-season produce but maintain good nutritional value since they are picked and packaged at their peak quality. Steam-in vegetable bags can also be an easy way to save prep time.  
• Buy in bulk: If you use many of the same ingredients, buying dry goods in bulk can often be cheaper. 
• Buy canned foods: Canned foods are incredibly versatile and can be an affordable option. They are also easy to store. Just be aware of products high in sodium. 

Find support 

Basic Needs Center 
The Basic Needs Center (BNC) helps connect students to essential resources, including access to nutritional and culturally relevant foods. The Buff Pantry is available to current students and welcomes clients once weekly to receive an average of 20 pounds of food per visit. The Buff Pantry has a variety of items available, including produce, pantry staples, refrigerated and frozen goods, and personal care items. The BNC hosts free mobile food pantries for ��������Ƶ Boulder students, faculty and staff, and community members of Boulder and Broomfield counties. Also, check out events like Ralphie’s Cooking Basics to learn new recipes.  

Nutrition Services 
Students can schedule a free appointment with the Nutrition Resource Clinic in the Fitness and Wellness Suite at the Main Student Recreation Center. Appointments cover a variety of topics depending on your personal needs.  

Community Food Share 
is a local food bank that aids people throughout Boulder and Broomfield counties facing food insecurity. They offer a free on-site food pantry, emergency food assistance, senior food programs and mobile food pantries. 

Government-funded programs 
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) assist low-income families and their children in purchasing healthy foods through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card or a WIC check. The Basic Needs Center can help students with the application process for these resources. 

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