In addition to creating and updating degree programs, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo continually improves how we support students on their academic and personal journeys.
One of the pillars of that support is our Kilohana Academic Success Center that provides peer tutoring in biology, chemistry, math, physics, astronomy, computer science, and writing. The center is centrally located on the first floor of Mookini Library and offers study space to students even if they are not working with a tutor. While the benefits for those seeking tutoring are clear, tutoring is also of great benefit to the peer tutors themselves; not only do they get paid for their work, but their comprehension and academic development improve as they teach skills to others.
In addition to academic support, we have two major ways of checking in with students regularly.
One way is our new student-success chatbot, part of a program launched last year throughout the entire 10-campus UH System with each campus having their own chatbot.
Our AI chatbot named Lehua is designed to check in with students, connect them to resources and provide valuable insights into student needs. It’s been a huge success with over 90% of students across the UH System accessing this support. Last fall, the chatbots identified 1,905 students feeling nervous or overwhelmed, flagged 251 learners struggling with a sense of belonging, and assisted 389 students who reported they were not enjoying their classes; all these students were connected to the support they needed. The initiative is part of UH’s broader student success strategy to create a “common standard of care” for all students, regardless of campus.
Another way we stay in close contact with students is through peer mentoring programs.
One program for new students called Ka Pouhana Mentoring Program is community-based with both faculty and peer mentoring for students from Hawaiʻi. Students appreciate the option to connect with someone closer to their own age and experience, which often creates a strong sense of belonging, notably through forming meaningful relationships. And the mentors themselves tend to stay at UH Hilo in greater numbers than their peers, perhaps because of this additional kuleana they have taken on.
Life can also present personal challenges for our students, and many have real economic needs that we help address through Hale Lako, a space on campus where students can find non-perishable food, school supplies, clothes, and personal hygiene items at no cost. Hale Lako is a community-based supply line, with donations coming from UH Hilo faculty, staff, students, and the surrounding community, all with the goal to help students focus on succeeding in school and life.
In addition, there are easily accessible pop-up food pantries located centrally in our advising offices and at Kilohana Academic Success Center.
For unexpected emergencies, we have a student crisis fund which is used to help students who face a personal financial emergency. The annual UH Giving Day will be held this year on Wednesday, April 8, and a gift of any size to this fund or others will make a big difference in the lives of those in need. Click here for more information on how to donate.
Mahalo for everyone’s support of our students.
Bonnie D. Irwin