The University of Utah has introduced the Answer U service to provide students with centralized and accessible support. The initiative is designed to help freshmen, transfer students, and seniors navigate difficult situations by connecting them to the appropriate campus resources.
Students can bring simple or complex questions to Answer U through in-person visits, chat, or phone calls. If a situation requires coordinated care on campus, staff members facilitate those connections to help students navigate their campus experience with increased autonomy and confidence.
Answer U Manager Allison Allred stated that the service helps students find specific contacts, such as advisors for class changes, by making appointments on their behalf. While the service continues to assist with regular library questions, it is expanding help to include resources beyond the library, such as the Counseling Center, Student Services, and the Center for Campus Wellness.
The Marriott Library is currently piloting the first location for Answer U, with plans to develop other campus hubs in the future.
The development of Answer U stems from the university's commitment to student success and an initiative to increase student retention rates. Mitzi Montoya, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, said the launch will guide students to essential services from the start of their academic journey through graduation.
