Get Involved

Over 80% of students say living on campus contributes to their sense of belonging at CU.

How you can get involved

Residential experiences provide students with a variety of programs that will enhance their college experience. By participating in a RAP, LLC, FIG or other involvement opportunities, students will be introduced to a community of other students with similar interests and academic goals. Through various types of programming, students will develop friendships, gain important life skills and get a deeper and more fulfilling residence hall experience.

What am I eligible for?

Not sure what residence hall programs you're eligible for? Explore all of your options...

RAP HALL Arts & Sciences Business Pre-Business Engineering Pre-Engineering Education CMCI Architecture & Planning Music
Baker RAP Baker X       X X   X  
CMCI-Communications RAP Buckingham *X20%           X    
Engineering Honors RAP Andrews       X          
Farrand RAP Farrand X                
Global Engineering RAP Kittredge Central       X X        
Global Studies RAP Arnett X X     X X      
Health Professionals RAP Kittredge West X                
Honors RAP Smith X X   *X5% X X X X X
Leeds Business RAP Cheyenne Arapaho   X              
Libby RAP Libby X         X     X
Pre-Business RAP Williams Village North     X            
Sewall RAP Sewall X X       X *X5% X X

  X=Eligible      *X=% of population allowed to be this major

FIG HALL Arts & Sciences Business Pre-Business Engineering Pre-Engineering Education CMCI Architecture & Planning Music
Approaching Sustainability Through the Arts Libby X X   X X X X X X
Social Justice & Media Libby X X   X X X X X X
Developing Sustainable Communities & Cultures Kittredge Central X X   X X X X X X
Sustainability & Environmental Science Kittredge Central X X   X X X X X X

LLC HALL Arts & Sciences Business Pre-Business Engineering Pre-Engineering Education CMCI Architecture & Planning Music
Active Living Darley North X X   X X X X X X
Lucile B. Buchanan LLC Hallett  X X   X X X X X X
Multicultural Perspectives LLC Hallett X X   X X X X X X
Spectrum LLC Hallett X X   X X X X X X
Transfer WEST LLC Stearns West X X   X X X X X X
Quadrangle Engineering & Applied Sciences LLC Aden, Brackett, Cockerell, Crosman       X X        

X=Eligible  

Traditional
Non-Program		 Arts &
Sciences		 Business Pre-Business Engineering Pre-Engineering Education CMCI Architecture &
Planning		 Music
Athens North X X   X X X X X X
Cheyenne Arapaho                 X
Darley North X X   X X X X X X
Darley South X X   X X X X X X
Hallett X X   X X X X X X
Kittredge Central X X   X X X X X X
Reed X X   X X X X X X
Stearns East X X   X X X X X X
Stearns West X X   X X X X X X
Willard X X   X X X X X X
Williams Village North X X   X X X X X X

X=Eligible  

Residential academic programs (RAPs) provide an academic environment that is integrated directly into the residence hall living experience. The students in the program live together in the same hall, participate in seminar classes in-hall, have access to faculty offices there and engage in community activities that reinforce the academic theme. 

Students standing in a line in green field with hiking gear on

Baker Residential Academic Program

Baker RAP focuses on the natural sciences, pre-health and environment and is a great fit for students that see the importance of scientific awareness in both their daily lives and career paths. The program involves both traditional in-hall classroom work and co-curricular activities to actively engage students in the learning process.

Eligibility 

All students in arts and sciences or architecture and planning may apply

Program Details

  • Explore the natural world outside of the classroom with program faculty and staff. Past trips included overnight trips to the Great Sand Dunes, rock and mountain climbing and snowshoeing in the Rocky Mountains
  • Co-curricular events, including special lectures, museums trips, watching the annual elk bugling ritual in Estes Park and panning for gold in Idaho Springs
  • During a fall Undergraduate Research Symposium, students are introduced to opportunities to conduct research with CU faculty through programs such as the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)

To Apply

Select "Baker RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the Baker RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

group shot of entire of comm rap group in front of buckingham hall

CMCI/Communication & Society Residential Academic Program

CommRAP is a community made up of a variety of students with interests in writing, music, athletics, rock climbing, leadership and more that understand the importance of communication in any career.

Eligibility 

Students with any major with an interest in communications

Program Details

  • An interdisciplinary program dedicated to understanding how communication shapes social worlds and worldviews through an examination of complex social problems
  • Fosters a participatory culture in which students shape social events and co-curricular activities to build a strong, supportive academic community
  • Promotes intellectual curiosity, creativity and collaboration—"a community of good-hearted scholars," as described by alums

To Apply

Select "CMCI-CommRAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the CommRAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

four students at a table working on a orrery

Engineering Honors Residential Academic Program

Through a culture committed to community, support, ambition, excellence and mutual success and achievement, this program brings together students and faculty that enjoy engineering without being defined by it. 

Eligibility

Students who have applied to Engineering Honors Program (EHP) directly and have been accepted to the program

Program Details

  • EHP is committed to the idea of community and bringing together students and faculty that are ambitious without being competitive, serious without being obsessive, committed to the success of others without sacrificing their own achievements and who enjoy engineering without being defined by it
  • EHP is a very diverse group that includes musicians, artists, gourmet cooks, writers, athletes and student leaders, with goals to become engineers, development workers, educators, entrepreneurs, medical doctors, professors, researchers and environmental policy makers
  • To graduate with honors, completion of a senior Honors ePortfolio and/or an Honors Thesis is required along with successful completion of the program

To Apply

Fill out an application with EHP and then select "Engineering Honors RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the Engineering Honors RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

farrand exterior on sunny spring day

Farrand Residential Academic Program

Farrand RAP is dedicated to the study of humanities within the larger frame of culture and society. Students may choose from among dozens of popular arts and sciences core courses offered by our award-winning faculty. 

Eligibility 

Only students enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences may apply

Program Details

  • Co-curricular activities/student involvement includes: wide variety of events and performances, active and well-supported student governance (Farrand Community Council) and group projects benefiting the community and the environment
  • Students are encouraged to participate in a number of activities including:
    • faculty-led co-curricular events, outdoor programs and volunteering opportunities
    • student-led events – such as film nights, open-mic events and game nights
  • Residential advisors and second-year student mentors advise and help first-year students feel at home in their new surroundings

To Apply

Select "Farrand RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the Farrand RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

students standing in a group smiling, one holding a sign that says "be global"

Global Engineering Residential Academic Program 

This program helps students prepare for the new global conditions of the engineering professions, through experiencing international culture, mastery of a second language and gaining confidence with IT-driven international communication and collaboration

Eligibility

Open to all engineering students, with particular attention to first- and second-year students with an academic or personal interest in global engineering, foreign languages, international collaborative design work and international development projects

Program Details

  • Faculty director in residence is former associate dean of the engineering college
  • Students in residence will practice their language skills through speaking Spanish, French or Russian in the residential academic program
  • RAP classes include a 2000 level seminar on global information communication technologies (HUEN 2020, which is a three-credit humanities and social sciences class). Further humanities and social sciences courses are available in the residence and vary year to year 

To Apply

Select "Global Engineering RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information

Visit the Global Engineering RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*

* RAP rates are subject to change

students leaping in the air in a line with a high mountain backdrop

Global Studies Residential Academic Program

The Global Studies Residential Academic Program (G-RAP) promotes global awareness by introducing 200 first-year students to the many cultures of the world, encouraging the study of foreign languages and international affairs and emphasizing the value of international education.

Eligibility

Open to first- and second-year students in the Schools of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education and Pre-Engineering with an academic or personal interest in international affairs, cultural and ethnic studies, languages and studying abroad

Program Details

  • Provides an intimate yet inclusive environment for first- and second-year students interested in adding an international component to their undergraduate education
  • Offers the opportunity to choose interdisciplinary, internationally focused courses each of the two semesters, taught in a small academic setting of no more than 18 students
  • Connects students to a group of similarly-interested peers as well as staff and faculty with extensive international knowledge and experience
  • Coordinates field trips, community service projects and special evening presentations by faculty and members of the community on their international research and/or work
  • Encourages study abroad and sponsors an annual service learning trip to Peru each May

To Apply

Select "Global Studies RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the Global Studies RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

HRAP members wearing shorts and t-shirts hiking in the spring

Health Professionals Residential Academic Program

A community for students interested in healthcare and related career paths including, but not limited to, dentistry, chiropractic medicine, nursing, naturopathic medicine, optometry, podiatry, public health, physical and occupational therapy and veterinary medicine.

Eligibility

First- and second-year students with any major

Program Details

  • Students will take one or two courses per semester in the residence hall
  • Co-curricular, faculty-sponsored talks, field trips, social outings and civic engagement activities
  • Pre-professional advising services with the Academic Advising Center
  • As students progress in their academic career, we invite them to continue their participation as an HPRAP member. We provide leadership opportunities and advanced coursework benefiting our sophomore and upper-class students

To Apply

Select "Health Professionals RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information

Visit the Health Professionals RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

3 students and a staff member posing and smiling

Honors Residential Academic Program

Honors RAP is a challenging and supportive co-educational living-learning community open to all honors-qualified students, of all majors, both freshmen and continuing students. By becoming part of this community, you will surround yourself with other bright, highly motivated students, enjoy small seminar-style classes and have the opportunity to work closely with Honors faculty. Through classes and extra-curricular activities, Honors RAP seeks to integrate the diverse disciplines of the College of Arts and Sciences with the opportunities and challenges of real world experiences. In short, we aspire to offer the best educational experience possible to qualified CU undergraduates.

Eligibility

  • Honors qualified (academic top 10% of incoming class) first-year students are welcomed to participate in the program
  • Continuing Honors RAP students who maintain a 3.3 GPA

Program Details

  • Provide academically prepared and highly motivated undergraduate students with a challenging and supportive living and learning context
  • Honors RAP symposia and guest speakers provide students an advanced start with campus resources and unique scholarly opportunities
  • Past course offerings have included Ethics of Ambition, Shakespeare for Non-majors, Experiencing Art, Biology; A Human Approach, World Music and Nutrition for Health & Performance
  • Students are required to take one Honors RAP honors seminar each semester in their residence hall and attend Honors RAP functions
  • Engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities
  • A registration packet, schedule and description of program courses will be mailed to you. Most courses fulfill arts and sciences core requirements
  • In fact, continuing students are encouraged and have the opportunity to become student leaders within Honors RAP, helping shape the program according to their own needs and visions

To Apply

Select "Honors RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information

Visit the Honors RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

leeds students posing and smiling

Leeds Residential Academic Program

The Leeds RAP is a targeted residential community that is comprised exclusively of undergraduate students who are business majors in the Leeds School of Business. The program provides in-house, rigorous business courses in a small classroom setting, in addition to community building and professional development opportunities

Eligibility

First-year students enrolled in the Leeds School of Business who value an active community and desire a deeper college experience that involves connecting with faculty, staff, professionals and peers

Program Details

  • A high-touch residential experience where students are involved in a community of like-minded peers and connect with in-house faculty and staff
  • Students in the program develop supportive relationships with peer mentors, faculty and staff, including an in-house academic advisor
  • Offerings include curricular, cocurricular and extracurricular activities that build academic competence, career direction and community
  • The program serves to set students up for academic, career and life success by focusing on the “whole student experience” and providing a wide variety of opportunities for personal and professional development
  • Experiential professional development activities include The Nest (a support community for entrepreneurially-minded students), Leeds RAP Research Pod and consulting project opportunities

To Apply

Select "Leeds RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information

Visit the Leeds RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

libby RAP students posing in front of a brightly painted brick wall

Libby Residential Academic Program

Libby RAP emphasizes creativity as a learned skill that aids problem-solving and critical thinking in a wide variety of disciplinary, intellectual and professional applications. The program's curriculum and co-curricular activities enhance a students' appreciation of the arts and includes core curriculum and elective courses that apply to most majors. 

Eligibility

Primarily for freshmen and sophomores in the College of Arts and Sciences. Students in other colleges may also be considered

Program Details

  • Libby's small seminar and studio courses (with 12-25 students per class) create a close intellectual and artistic community
  • Total enrollment in Libby RAP is approximately 300 students
  • Most courses offered fulfill core curriculum requirements. Past courses include Drawing/Painting for Non-Majors, Photography for Non-Majors, African Dance, Introduction to Acting, Gender and Film, Horror Films and American Culture, The History of Communication from Caves to Cyberspace, Economics, Nutrition
  • Classes meet in Libby Hall and are taught by faculty with demonstrated excellence in teaching

To Apply

Select "Libby RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information

Visit the Libby RAP website 

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

exterior shot of wil vill north with cloudless sky and lush lawn in front

Pre-Business Residential Academic Program

Pre-Business RAP is a community made up of first-year students who are pursuing a business degree but have not yet been directly admitted into the Leeds School of Business.

Eligibility 

First-year freshman students who apply to and are accepted to the program

Program Details

  • Admitted students will be able to pursue pre-requisite courses to prepare for entrance into the business school their sophomore year
  • Personalized advising with a Leeds advisor
  • Specialized freshman seminar to help students explore business fields, provide connections to Leeds and prepare them for success in Leeds as a sophomore
  • Access to BCOR 1015: The World of Business (this class is typically unavailable to non-business students)
  • If you participate in the Pre-Business RAP, you must live in Williams Village North

To Apply

Select "Pre-Business RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the Pre-Business RAP website

Cost 

$850 per/yr*

* RAP rates are subject to change

students standing at the top of Sanitas Mountain, smiling

Sewall Residential Academic Program

Sewall RAP is a co-educational program for first-year students enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences who have an interest in the study of history, culture, education and society.

Eligibility

First-year students in the College of Arts and Sciences and students enrolled in other colleges that are interested in history and culture, and are motivated to make an investment in liberal arts education

Program Details

  • Classes range from history and biology to economics and English, with co-curricular activities (such as lectures, films and field trips) and local community outreach to help students recognize and explore these connections
  • One three-credit Sewall course each semester is required of all residents
  • Participation in a community outreach program for which students receive academic credit

To Apply

Select "Sewall RAP" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Additional Information 

Visit the Sewall RAP website 

Cost 

$850 per/yr*
* RAP rates are subject to change

First-year Interest Groups (FIGs) are one-semester long academic communities made up of no more than 25 students with similar academic interests that live together in the same residence hall and work closely with a FIG faculty director. Students take two courses together during the first semester on campus. FIGs are a great choice for students that are College of Arts & Science Open Option or interested in exploring several academic disciplines.

Approaching Sustainability Through the Arts

Eligibility

Open to all students but particularly appropriate for open option students in the College of Arts & Sciences

Program Details

Participants of Approaching Sustainability Through the Arts:

  • Take the first-year seminar Comedy Matters
  • Take an additional theme-related course that fulfills degree requirements: THTR1009 - Theatre and Society 
  • Participate in co-curricular programs such as field trips, guest speakers and group meals
  • Receive structured and ad hoc mentoring and support from faculty and upper-division peers
  • Develop a community of support while transitioning into the college environment
  • Live together in Libby Hall

The faculty director is an associate professor in Theatre & Dance who uses the theater to enhance underserved populations’ ability to solve environmental challenges. One of her key projects is called Inside the Greenhouse, a collaboration with science faculty that is aimed at communicating to the general public about environmental issues.

To Apply

Select "Approaching Sustainability Through the Arts" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with FIGs

Developing Sustainable Communities & Cultures

Eligibility

Open to all students but particularly appropriate for open option students in the College of Arts & Sciences

Program Details

Participants of Developing Sustainable Communities & Cultures:

  • Take the first-year seminar Building Sustainable Communities Through Design
  • Take an additional theme-related course that fulfills degree requirements: SOCY 2077 - Environment and Society
  • Participate in co-curricular programs such as field trips, guest speakers and group meals
  • Receive structured and ad hoc mentoring and support from faculty and upper-division peers
  • Develop a community of support while transitioning into the college environment
  • Live together in Kittredge Central Hall

The faculty director is an assistant professor in Environmental Engineering who focuses her research on improving indoor air quality within Native American communities.

To Apply

Select "Developing Sustainable Communities & Cultures" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with FIGs

Social Justice & Media

Eligibility

Open to all students but particularly appropriate for open option students in the College of Arts & Sciences

Program Details

Participants of Social Justice & Media:

  • Take the first-year seminar Journalism Through Film
  • Take an additional theme-related course that fulfills degree requirements: WRTG1150 - First-year Writing and Rhetoric 
  • Participate in co-curricular programs such as field trips, guest speakers and group meals
  • Receive structured and ad hoc mentoring and support from faculty and upper-division peers
  • Develop a community of support while transitioning into the college environment
  • Live together in Libby Hall

The faculty director is a professor and founding department chair in journalism whose research and teaching focus is on digital media law and ethics, digital news writing, reporting and editing, and math/statistics for journalism.

To Apply

Select "Social Justice & Media" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with FIGs

Sustainability & Environmental Science

Eligibility

Open to all students but particularly appropriate for open option students in the College of Arts & Sciences

Program Details

Participants of Sustainability & Environmental Science:

  • Take the first-year seminar Toxins in our Environment
  • Take an additional theme-related course that fulfills degree requirements: ENVS1000 - Introduction to Environmental Studies
  • Participate in co-curricular programs such as field trips, guest speakers and group meals
  • Receive structured and ad hoc mentoring and support from faculty and upper-division peers
  • Develop a community of support while transitioning into the college environment
  • Live together in Kittredge Central Hall

The faculty director is a professor in Environmental Engineering who is a leading researcher on the topic of air quality standards and advocate for legislation that protects populations from excessive pollutants.

To Apply

Select "Sustainability & Environmental Science" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with FIGs

Living and learning communities (LLCs) provide a residence hall environment to students in which participants live together in same hall and engage in activities that reinforce a particular academic or special-interest theme.

students doing a yoga pose in a rec center studio

Active Living & Learning Community

Offers students a residential experience in which all program participants strive to lead an intentionally active lifestyle. Events inspire the holistic development of mind, body and spirit.

Eligibility

  • Undergraduate students with an interest in the outdoors and health
  • Individuals with an interest in cycling, mountain biking, endurance sports, fitness, flexibility training, nutrition, outdoor adventure, yoga, mountaineering, meditation, positive mental health, running, skiing and snowboarding, slacklining, Pilates, rest and relaxation, rock climbing and bouldering

Program Details

  • Participate in activities and programs geared towards a variety of sub-communities including skiing/snowboarding, mountain biking/cycling, mind/body (yoga, meditation, Pilates), running, hiking and rock climbing
  • Provides student events and programs that promote healthy decision-making and a sustainable lifestyle
  • Opportunities to consult with a registered dietician, attend weekend trips and excursions

To Apply

Select "Active Living LLC" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with Active Living LLC 

exterior shot of aden hall in summer with large trees in front and green grass

Quad Engineering Living & Learning Community

Founded in 1987 with the goal of providing a shared living environment for students studying a wide range of fields related to engineering or the applied sciences. Current offerings include calculus work groups, late night breakfasts and an ongoing workshop series featuring award-winning programs like Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream and The Pendulum Project.

Eligibility

Students studying engineering or pre-engineering

Program Details

  • A community that's 60-65% engineering students, so you'll never have trouble finding someone to borrow a book from or study with
  • A computer lab equipped with most of the programs you'll need for your engineering classes
  • Free drop-in tutoring from 5:00pm - 1:00am every weeknight
  • Calculus work groups held in-house

To Apply

Select "Quad Engineering LLC" under Program/Residence Hall in the online housing application

Cost

$130 per/yr*
*rates subject to change 

students standing on a wooden bridge in the woods, looking at the camera, smiling

Spectrum Living & Learning Community

This program is open to any and all students who have a passion for equal rights. The program's focus is on creating community—offering a variety of social and educational activities focusing on community dialogue and support of LGBTQIA students and their allies.

Eligibility

All colleges

Program Details

  • Through Spectrum LLC, students will find a supportive, social and communal space
  • Students will gain a perspective of equality and acceptances around LGBTQIA communities as well as their impact on a greater diverse world 
  • Students will gain a perspective of inclusion and equity through focused programming and educational sessions around diversity and social justice
  • Students will have the opportunity to gain skills engaging in cross cultural dialogue around the student experience, campus climate and retention at the University of Colorado
  • The Spectrum living area has gender-neutral bathrooms which create greater access and privacy
  • The Gender and Sexuality Center provides support for Spectrum
  • A peer mentor and a resident advisor are available on the floor to support community dialogue

To Apply

Select "Spectrum LLC" in the Preference Where to Live section of the online housing application

Additional Information 

Please contact the program at 303-492-6869

Cost

There is no fee associated with the Spectrum LLC 

two students smiling and hugging at graduation

Lucile B. Buchanan Living & Learning Community

The program is open to any and all students who have a passion for equal rights. The program's focus is on providing students the opportunity to engage in dialogue around cultures of the African and black diaspora, identities and social justice issues.

Eligibility

All colleges

Program Description

  • Through the Lucile B. Buchanan LLC, students will find a supportive, social and communal space. Any and all students are invited to be part of the Buchanan LLC—specifically those identifying with elements of African and black diaspora and their community allies 
  • Students will gain a perspective of equality and acceptances around African and black diaspora, as well as their impact on a greater diverse world 
  • Students will have intentional exposure of African and black diaspora and history through programming 
  • Students will have the opportunity to gain skills engaging in cross cultural dialogue around the student experience, campus climate and retention at the University of Colorado. 
  • The Cultural Unity and Engagement Center (CUE) provides support for the community
  • A peer mentor and a resident advisor are available on the floor to further support community dialogue 
  • Additional information about the life of Lucile B. Buchanan

To Apply

Select "Lucile B. Buchanan LLC" in the Preference Where to Live section of the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with the Lucile B. Buchanan LLC

five students sitting on the grass in the summer, smiling and looking at the camera

Multicultural Perspectives Living & Learning Community

This program is open to any and all students who have a passion for equal rights. The program's focus is on providing community and programming to students interested in social justice, diversity and identity development. 

Eligibility

All colleges

Program Details

  • Through the Multicultural Perspectives LLC, students will find a supportive, social and communal space
  • Students will gain a perspective of the diverse world through exploration of identity, cultural perspectives exchange and community, both at the University of Colorado and the greater society
  • Students will further their understanding of topics of social justice, civility and service through programming and activities
  • Students will take an active step towards supporting communities and intentional efforts around reshaping the campus climate
  • The Volunteer Resource Center (VRC), Women's Resource Center, Center for Student Involvement and other campus offices provide support to the program
  • Peer mentors and a resident advisor are available on the floor to further support dialogue 

To Apply

Select "Multicultural Perspectives LLC" in the Preference Where to Live section of the online housing application

Cost

There is no fee associated with the Multicultural Perspectives LLC

Involvement opportunities provide students with several more options to get involved in their residence hall communities but aren't structured quite the same as a residential academic program, freshman interest groups or living and learning communities. Participants may live in different halls or the program may occur during a specific time period (like fall opening).

EcoReps

Want to be a part of a close-knit community of student leaders? As an EcoRep, you will move in early to participate in an amazing weekend retreat in Jamestown, Colorado, which will connect you to other first-year students and give you the skills to hit the ground running as a dedicated environmental advocate! Interested EcoReps may also participate in a fully-funded spring break service trip, as well as field trips and trainings in Denver, Boulder and more!

Get the on-campus family that you deserve in this unique yearlong leadership opportunity, and learn how to create change at CU Boulder! Receive training on recycling, sustainability and green living that will enable you to educate your in-hall community and engage in meaningful dialogue with your peers!

Apply Now!

* If you have difficulty with the web application, you may print, fill out, scan, and email the PDF application to ecoreps@colorado.edu. 
Applications due July 15, 2017

Our Mission

By giving our EcoReps the skills and knowledge needed to promote sustainably responsible behavior in the residence halls, our program strives to create an engaged and environmentally active on-campus community. We help students to be leaders within their academic class through specialized training, programming, experimental learning opportunities and service work.

Important Information

  • Available for first- and second-year students living in residence halls only
  • Must be available three Tuesdays per month from 6:00-7:00pm
  • This is a full-year program, and requires dedication and a full year commitment

EcoRep Duties

Required Meetings

  • Training meetings (Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 pm)
  • Attend three hall council meetings a semester create sustainability related programs in your halls
  • Fall training: August 12-18
  • Spring training: Late January

Events

  • Attend and plan approximately three events per semester with fellow EcoReps 
  • Training and support is provided to make this process easy and fun
  • EcoReps receive programming funds for supplies/food—whatever is needed for planned programs

Other Opportunities

  • Serve as a recycling advisor in regular student move-in
  • Spring Break Service Trip; provided at no additional cost, up to 12 spots available for EcoReps only
  • Maintain an eco-board for your building to get your message out there!

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at EcoReps@colorado.edu.

 

Stampede Camp

­Stampede Camp is a three-day experience for incoming students living within the residence halls. It's a great way for incoming first-year students to find their place at the University of Colorado Boulder. Through service projects, campus resource presentations and exciting, educational workshops, students are introduced to each other and campus. The stress-free, welcoming environment and small group exchanges prepare participants for their first year as a CU Buff and beyond!

Highlights of Stampede include:

  • Learn about clubs and organizations at CU
  • Connect with upper-division mentors to learn about the CU experience
  • Have focused time with other camp participants that are passionate about student leadership
  • Discover and participate in various activities and leadership development sessions
  • Be the first to meet all of your neighbors by serving as CU Fall Welcome/Move-In Volunteer

For additional details including access to the application, visit the Stampede website, for questions, send us an email!

Traditional Residential Communities

Traditional communities house students with diverse academic and social interests but do not involve formal programming, classes or an additional application process. These halls engage in programming and community-building that aren't tied to a particular academic theme.

Foosball PlayersTraditional Living Experience Halls

Athens North
Darley North
Darley South
Hallett
Stearns East
Stearns West
Willard
Williams Village North

student taking a selfie with Chip the Buffalo with Bear Creek in the background

Bear Creek Apartments is dedicated to not just providing an exceptional place to live, but also to providing some great programs and activities to enrich the students' living experiences. The beginning of each year kicks off with Creek Week, which is five full days of fun including a huge barbecue, tie dye party, water kickball and a hang-out with Chip.

Throughout the year there are a number of events every month, frequently with an interest theme, including life skills, health and activity, Creek Geeks and cultural appreciation. Some of the meet-ups last year included DIY crafts, cultural cooking classes, indoor rock climbing, video game nights, trivia contests, bike rides and hikes. Also, each month there is a large event to bring residents together to socialize and have fun, like movies and s'mores, ice cream socials and game nights.

You can also expect to see International Hour once a week. These can range from small study breaks with free food to big events like celebrating Chinese New Year. A great way to stay up-to-date on the Bear Creek goings-on are by following the social media accounts!

Bear Creek Website

Our Community Garden Brings Residents Together

Graduate & Family Housing regularly schedules a variety of recreational and educational programs for residents to attend. These programs are a wonderful way to meet your neighbors and participate in the community.

Although the specific programs vary from year‐to‐year, usually there are welcome‐back events in the fall and winter, holiday celebrations, potluck dinners, outdoor movies in the summer, and a variety of activities for children, adults, families and single students.

To stay up-to-date, make sure to follow Graduate & Family Housing on Facebook.

Working with Housing & Dining Services (HDS) is a great way to earn money during college. It's super convenient and the department offers a variety of work types to meet different needs. It can also be an excellent way to meet people and build friendships within your community. Check out the information below to see all HDS has to offer!

RA Recruitment

The 2017-18 RA Application is Now Closed

Welcome to the 2017-18 RA application site! You will find everything you need here to help guide you through the process, including a detailed job description, qualifications, hiring timeline and a list of frequently asked questions! If you'd like to ask us something not covered in our webpages, please email us at reslifestudenthiring@lists.colorado.edu.

Why be an RA?

  • You are the type of person who is always looking to be one step ahead of the rest. You want to be well prepared in conflict resolution, critical thinking and leadership skills—making yourself more competitive in the job market after graduation. 
  • You will make a difference. You will be the reason students decide to remain at CU or the reason they discover their perfect major. You look forward to being a part of a legacy and leaving your mark on the University of Colorado.
  • Meeting your residents in one-on-one settings to talk about challenges, accomplishments or their plans for the future will be a daily occurrence. You will also help your residents build connections with the campus at large.
  • While many off-campus jobs are hard to balance with a busy course schedule, we know that you’re a student too and want to make sure you succeed both at your job and at your schoolwork. 

If you would like to know more about what being an RA entails before applying, please meet with one of the RAs in your hall or contact your hall director.

To be an RA, you:

  • Must have completed at least two full-time (12 credit hours) academic semesters at the collegiate level by the employment start date; AB and IB credits cannot be substituted for full-time collegiate study.
  • Must be a regularly enrolled, full-time student at CU-Boulder; transfer applicants must provide proof of registration and transcripts from previous academic institutions.
  • Must have a minimum 2.7 cumulative GPA both on the date of job offer and at the conclusion of spring 2016 semester. Note: the minimum GPA for honors halls is 3.0. Must be in good conduct standing with the university. New hires will be considered ineligible if they are on academic or conduct probation at either their time of job offer or their employment start date. Once a candidate has been offered an RA position, the expectation is that they do not violate the Student Code of Conduct.
  • Must successfully complete a criminal background check or show evidence that one has been completed within the last year.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States. To remain in the RA position: All resident advisors must pass at least 67 percent of all attempted credit hours with a grade of Pass, D-, or better. Attempted credit hours include all CU hours (all campuses and continuing education) and transfer hours accepted by any other college or university. Repeated and non-passing grades will also count as attempted credit hours even if the grade is no longer calculated in the GPA. The following grades are not considered passing: F, I and W.
  • Must continue to demonstrate academic progress by completing at least 12 credit hours per semester, excluding summers.

2017 Resident Advisor Application

Date               Time         Activity
Nov 18, 2016   Application opens online at eRezLife
Jan 18, 2017 11:59 pm Application closes
Jan 20, 2017   Applicants notified of eligibility via email. Some candidates will be invited to sign up for a group process interview. Note: all email communication will be sent to the applicants' colorado.edu address.

Jan 25, 2017

 11:59 pm Deadline to sign up for group process interview

Jan 27,28, 2017

 

 Group process interviews
Feb 1-8, 2017   One-on-one interviews with hall directors
Feb 10, 2017   Anticipated new hire notification date. Alternate candidates will remain in selection pool
Feb 13, 2017 5:00 pm Deadline to accept offer of employment
Feb. 16, 2017 5:00 pm A required RA pre-employment class for all newly hired RAs.

 

2017 Mentor Resident Advisor Application Timeline

Date               Time         Activity
Nov 18, 2016 12:01 am Application opens online at eRezLife
January 18, 2017 11:59 pm Application closes
Jan 23, 2017   Applicants notified of eligibility via email. Some candidates will be invited to sign up for an individual interview. Particularly cases in which the candidate does not intend to return to their own hall. Note: all email communication will be sent to the applicants' colorado.edu address.
Jan 30, 2017   Applicants notified of hiring status
Feb 16, 2017 5:00 pm A required RA pre-employment class for all hired mentor RAs

 

Application  

Fill out an application online at http://cuboulder.erezlife.com. Applications must include a resume in order to move forward in the process. Flexibility is a quality that we find common in our most successful student staff members. You will be asked if you are willing to work in any residence hall across campus.

 

Resume Guidelines

  • Resume Instructions for New RA and Mentor RA Applicants: In order to be considered for the position, your resume must meet the following standards:
    • One page maximum (single spaced, 12 point font, Times New Roman font, one inch margins)
    • Include an “Education” section

Each RA has a “lead” role as part of their RA responsibilities. This is part of the RA position description, and provides an RA an opportunity to take the lead in a specific area for their staff and their community Leads are tailored to community needs, and in turn, not every lead will exist on every staff. Additionally, there are options to work with your hall director to create a lead that meets both your interests and skill sets, as well as the needs of your hall community. Below are the lead options for staffs for the 2016-17 academic year.

Academic Support Lead 

The academic support leads will have direct leadership in the overall community in the area of academic support. This includes having conversations with residents about how classes are going, their goals and career interests, pointing them to resources (CAPS, Career Services, ASAP, etc.) and talking to them about how their other choices are impacting academics.

Alcohol & Other Drugs Lead

Focuses on alcohol and other drug prevalence at CU (and beyond!) and how this use impacts learning and success. You’ll become familiar with university and community resources and best practices related AOD prevention and treatment. This lead is for you if you are interested in: learning more about the impacts of alcohol and other drugs, exploring what really works in prevention and education, looking beyond stereotypes of substance use and building skills and knowledge in harm reduction strategies, motivational interviewing and referral resources.

Hall Council Lead

This role will assist the primary advisor (hall director) in acting as a liaison between the RA staff and the hall council, as well as coordinate executive board elections and regularly attend hall council executive and general meetings/programming. This position will also help with overall community development and promote student advocacy and involvement at both the residence hall and campus levels.

RA Council (RAC) Lead

This lead is tasked with ensuring each hall staff has at least one RA who represents the hall at RA council meetings, who reports information learned at RA council back to their hall staff, who provides hall to hall RA and overall hall community RA programming to develop RA community, and who provides feedback to residence life professional staff through committee involvement.

RAP/LLC Lead

Provides RAs with an opportunity to collaborate with the hall director and/or the RAP faculty to engage with RAP/LLC students through attending various events, meetings and activities. RAs will gain increased opportunities to interact with faculty and build their network with campus partners. Involvement with this lead looks different depending on RAP/LLC but will generally include meetings and consistent communication with RAP faculty or campus partners. This lead is available in the following buildings: Arnett, Smith, Andrews, Kitt West, Buckingham, Kitt Central, Hallett, Libby, Baker, and Stearns West.

Recognition Lead

This lead will serve as the primary staff member who will create and execute recognition activities with their resident advisor (RA) staff and within the residence hall community. This position will focus on community development through recognizing the great work of residents, paraprofessional staff, professional staff and others within their communities.

Sustainability Lead

Will provide training to RAs wanting to teach their residents about sustainability on campus! RAs will raise awareness about green living and best practices for resource conservation in the halls through the use of green room certifications and training of their fellow RAs. This role will involve outreach, one-on-one meetings with residents and monthly meetings.

Social Justice Lead

RAs will facilitate dialogues among RA staff and students related to the power, privilege and oppression within the constructs of social identities and their intersectionalities. This would serve to foster awareness and advocacy; promote community development, allyship, inclusivity, and safety; and ideally prevent or limit BMIs and/or other non-inclusive or destructive behavior from occurring in the halls.

Please browse these common questions if you are considering becoming an RA:

Q: I had a conduct violation during my first semester. Will that impact my eligibility for an RA position?
A: We understand that sometimes students can have a difficult time transitioning to college and that you may have made a decision during your first weeks at school that isn’t representative of your overall experience here. We will be reviewing all candidates’ conduct history and discussing each case individually and inform the candidate of the status prior to interviews being scheduled. In addition, applicants cannot be on University Conduct probation or Academic Dishonesty probation during the selection process, at time of hire, or at start of employment.

Q: If I’m applying to be an RA, should I still make other plans for housing?
A: If you sign up for housing in the residence halls or Bear Creek and are then selected for an RA position, Housing and Dining is able to transfer over your contract. We are unable to do the same for off-campus housing and would recommend that you wait until after the hiring process is complete to sign an off-campus lease.

Q: My RA told me about something called a Group Process Interview. What is that and when do I sign up?
A: The Group Process Interview will be the first component of your in-person application. This will be an opportunity for you to showcase how you work in groups and resolve problems common to the RA position. Please see http://cuboulder.erezlife.com for more details on our hiring process and timeline. Sign-up information will be sent via email to candidates who qualify for the Group Process Interview.

Q: How many hours do RAs work each week?
A: We estimate that RAs will work 20 hours per week on average. However, the actual number of hours worked per week depends on many factors, including your duty schedule, interactions with residents, meetings, trainings and other job-related responsibilities. During training periods, you can expect to be in training 40+ hours per week.

Q: If I’m selected as an RA, can I choose my hall placement?
A: No. Departmental staffing needs, hall-specific programs and team dynamics will be the most significant factors in building placement. We have found that RAs who demonstrate the highest levels of adaptability tend to fare best in the RA position. We are looking for individuals who are ready to step into the RA position at any hall. Should you be placed in a hall and choose to decline the offer, you will not be able to reapply until the following academic year.

Q: I already have a part-time job on campus. Would I have to quit if I become an RA?
A: All RAs are required to get approval from their supervisor for any additional part-time jobs. Typically, first-year RAs are encouraged to critically evaluate their schedule to see if taking on an additional position is in their best interest. If you are approved to work an additional part-time job, the expectation is that the RA position takes precedence. Approvals to work an additional part-time job will be considered on an as-necessary basis after the first week of classes in August 2017.

Q: I’m planning on studying abroad in the spring. Can I still be an RA for the fall semester?
A: Unfortunately, the amount of training required for the RA position means that we are only able to hire RAs who can commit to a full year contract. Please let your current RA know if you are interested in looking into other leadership opportunities in your hall that would allow for more flexibility.

Q: I’m an international student. Am I eligible to be an RA?
A: International students are eligible for the RA position, as long as you have either a social security number or a valid F-1 visa. Please notify us at the time of hire if you are an international student, as your paperwork process may vary slightly.

Q What leadership opportunities do I have in this position?
A: Each RA takes on a leadership (or "Lead") role in their building for a specific area. Leads are determined by the RA supervisor and may vary due to community needs. For the current list of RA Lead positions, click here.

Apply!

community assistant behind desk handing student buff onecard

Community Assistant

As a community assistant (CA) or night community assistant (NCA) you will work at the front desks (community centers) in the residence halls. You'll help with day-to-day issues like room lock-outs and checking out equipment, but also participate in and encourage community-building in your hall. There are some excellent benefits to these positions including:

  • Planning activities that help build residence hall communities.
  • Working in your hall or a hall close to where you live. You can literally roll out of bed and be at work within minutes.
  • Gaining valuable work and leadership experience for future jobs.
  • Starting pay for CAs is $9.30 and starting pay for night CAs is $10.30

Interested? Visit eRezLife for a few additional details and access to the application. 

Apply!

tutors standing behind table, smiling, getting reading to participate in the ASAP scavenger hunt team builder

Academic Tutor with Academic Success and Achievement Program

Do you think you would like to be a tutor? We are looking for students that:

  • Are excited about their course content and want to share their love of the subject matter with other students
  • Are excited about making a difference in a group of students’ lives
  • Are interested in being a mentor, especially to first-year students
  • Enjoy teaching and watching “light bulbs” go off when teaching others
  • Want to teach freshmen the study skills to succeed in college

If you saw yourself in any of these statements, this could be a great position for you! ASAP tutoring provides you not just an outlet to do the things listed above, but some of the other benefits include:

  • Being in one of the highest paid student positions on campus.
    • Starting pay for undergraduate tutors is $9.50/hour- with the opportunity of a $2.50 promotion to head tutor after a year and positive evaluations from students and your tutor coordinator!
    • Starting pay for graduate students is $12/hour- with the opportunity of a $2.50 promotion to head tutor after a year and positive evaluations from students and your tutor coordinator!
  • Hours that fit your schedule. We make these small study groups fit your schedule!
  • A great experience to put on your resume and to support you in the future
  • Helping YOU learn the subject matter more deeply (teaching is one of the best ways to learn)
  • Providing you with a way to make a difference in someone’s life

Think this is something that would be a perfect position for you? Our only requirements are that you:

  • Have a 3.0 cumulative GPA
  • Have a 3.2 GPA in the courses that they want to tutor
  • Can provide a letter of recommendation
  • Are enthusiastic in working with students
  • Are excited to learn the skills of teaching

You will need to sign up for an account (which is really easy!) and apply to the “Tutor-ASAP 2016-17” position. You should hear back within 3-5 business days.

*If you do NOT meet the GPA requirements or have other questions, feel free to contact us at asap@colorado.edu or call the office 303-735-3303.

Apply!

student employee pulling a brick oven pizza out on a wooden paddle

Campus Dining Services

Whether you're thinking about a career in the culinary arts or looking for a job to supplement your income while you're in school, Campus Dining Services may be the answer for you!

We offer some great benefits for the busy student including:

  • flexible hours
  • an array of convenient locations 
  • competitive pay ($9.30-13.20/hr.)
  • participation in the new student employee of the month program
  • opportunity to be awarded scholarship money
  • leadership and advancement opportunities
  • the chance to gain valuable experience for your resume 
  • learning alongside award-winning chefs
  • developing time-management and interpersonal skills
  • working in modern, state-of-the-art facilities

And one of the best benefits—being part of a strong and inclusive community! 

Working with Campus Dining Services is more than just a paycheck, you're part of a team!

Employee of the Month Program

  • Six student staff members will be selected each month during the academic year
  • Recipients are each awarded a special prize, including things like ski passes, restaurant gift cards, amusement park tickets and golf and raceway tickets
  • A celebration party each month for the winners
  • Winner's names memorialized on the Wall of Fame in each dining operation
  • Certificates of achievement given to recipients and sent to parents (if you choose)

Yearly Scholarship

  • Six $1,000 scholarships awarded at the beginning of fall semester
  • Staff that have worked for Campus Dining Services for at least 60 days are eligible
  • Applications are accepted through April 1 for scholarships awarded the following fall
  • Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA
  • The scholarship application is available on the Desire2Learn website (D2L)

Apply!

Additional Positions with HDS

Details, including pay, requirements, locations and applications for student positions are available at the eRezLife website.

Academic Success and Achievement Program Office Assistant

  • Work hour tracking, data collection, application review and student assistance.

Academic Success and Achievement Program Tutor Coordinator

  • Interview, hire, coordinate and evaluate tutors.

Bear Creek Office Assistant/Conference Services Liaison

  • Attend planning sessions, arrange housing assignments and provide general conference support.

Campus Card ID Assistant

  • Issue Buff OneCards to university faculty, staff and students; provide general customer service support.

CU Conference Services

Diversity Mentor

  • Serve as a diversity resource and liaison for students participating in the Spectrum LLC in Hallett Hall. Live-in position.

Graduate & Family Housing Assistant

  • Provide customer service and general office support in the Graduate & Family Housing Office.

Mechanical Assistant

  • Painting, moving furniture, assisting with bed-lofting and replacing light bulbs and HVAC filters with Housing Facilities Services.

Occupancy Management Student Assistant

  • Provide customer service, respond to emails and phone calls

Student Assistant - BuffBites

  • Friendly, energetic, hard-workers needed to support the BuffBites events several times a week.

Student Assistant - Events and Administration

  • Strong leader to oversee the preparation and implementation of BuffBites events.

Student Teaching Assistant

  • Assist teachers at CU Children's Center in implementing classroom daily activities and leading small group activities under teacher guidance.

Transfer WEST Student Coordinator

  • Act as a leader/mentor to transfer students living in the Transfer WEST LLC.

 

Apply Now

Student Groups

In addition to all the involvement and community-building opportunities in the halls and with Residence Life, there is also plenty to explore around campus.

A great place to start is with the Center for Student Involvement. There are literally hundreds of students groups on campus, from skydiving and running to improv and engineering, we have it all. You can even start your own group if you don't find what you're looking for!

Student Groups

Students Volunteering

A volunteer is someone who offers his/her/zir service for the benefit of a community. Service to your community can mean bringing a neighbor soup when they are sick, cleaning up a nearby park with friends to spending time serving internationally. Getting involved in your community at CU can be as simple as serving during the VRC's Better Boulder, Better World event or signing up to go on an Alternative Break trip and do service with other like-minded CU students.

Any of our student staff can connect you to volunteer opportunities in the Boulder and surrounding communities. Here are a few ways to get connected with our office and events.

Volunteer Opportunities

Residence Life is here for you!

Residence Life

Living on campus and being a part of Residence Life provides you with some really amazing opportunities to find and create meaningful connections during your college experience. Students that feel connected tend to also feel more successful, and there is almost an endless amount of ways to connect on campus, for practically any type of person—it's not one size fits all. We offer residential academic programs, living and learning communities and first-year interest groups that create community right in your hall. There are also plenty of opportunities through student employment, RHA, hall council and the hundreds of clubs, groups and activities available to you.

Residence Hall Association

CU Boulder RHA is a student-run organization dedicated to advocating for the interests and welfare of residence hall students, while also providing opportunities for their personal growth and development. It is an organization of students committed to developing leadership, honoring diversity, recognizing achievement, promoting scholarship, as well as stimulating engagement and involvement among students who reside in the residence halls. Through legislation, fair representation from each hall and open discussion of issues facing students, the Residence Hall Association acts as the voice of students living in the residence halls to the university and the administration.

Hall Council

Hall councils are student government bodies that are part of each residence hall, and they are open to any student living in the halls. Students can run for an official seat or attend meetings as a community member. The councils plan and produce events and programs, review and create legislation to advocate for residence hall students and help develop hall identity and tradition.

Being a council member can be a great opportunity to develop leadership experience, collaborate on various projects, effect change in your community and most importantly, have fun!

Additional information is available on the Residence Hall Association website

Community Centers

Community centers are the hearts and social hubs of each residence hall through providing information, social activities and making sure residents feel at home when they enter their communities. As a part of community centers, each student staff member will greet all visitors and will be prepared to assist with any needs they have. The primary purpose of our community centers is to make our halls a more welcoming, engaging and inclusive environment for all!

Visit your community center to:

  • Check out various games and cleaning supplies
  • Sign out a temp key for your room
  • Participate in hall activities
  • Become involved
  • Ask general questions

Resident Advisors & Hall Directors

Resident advisors (RAs) are student support staff that live in the residence halls. They have been through freshman year and are available to support you as you make the transition from home to college life. Whether it be a tough break-up, academic struggles or homesickness, your RA is there to help. You can also expect them to reach out to you periodically throughout the year—they'll be interested to get to know you and ask how you're experiencing college life.

Hall directors are professional staff that either live right in the hall or very close by. Through student development, community-building events and one-on-one interactions, hall directors help residents gain important life skills that support their success in college and their lives after graduation.