College can be disorienting, especially for students navigating systemic barriers, new cultures, or the uncertainty of belonging. While most support systems wait for students to ask for help, a new AI-powered tool called STU aims to change that dynamic.
In this episode of Inside the Learning Experience, host Betheny Gross, director of research, and research coordinator Susie Chen explore how WGU Labs is reimagining student support through proactive, data-informed technology. STU is a first-of-its-kind student-facing AI assistant built to identify when students might be struggling and reach out before challenges escalate. From connecting learners to academic coaching and mental health resources to helping normalize help-seeking behaviors, STU is designed to make belonging structural, not accidental.
Listen in as we discuss how technology, empathy, and design can come together to create more equitable support systems that meet students where they are—before they even ask.
