“...When AI knows the specific details of the universities, its clubs, and ways to be involved on campus, then it would be extremely helpful towards students. I think it would greatly reduce the anxiety and stress put onto students when trying to reach out to new people. Using AI to support student success and advising would also greatly reduce the time it takes to gather information about various activities, clubs, or classes. ”
Class of 2026 White female student in the Midwest
“As someone who struggles with anxiety or think they are going to ask a weird question, AI has helped give me ideas on what paths to take and what is the best route. Having AI that is connected to the school, students would be easily able to ask it about certain classes or help with a problem without solving it for them and guiding them through by how the college teaches it.”
Class of 2028 White non-binary student in the South
Key takeaways
Students expect faster response times
Many believe AI can offer instant, 24/7 guidance and resource navigation, making success services more accessible.
AI and human advising should coexist
Rather than replacing human advisors, students see AI as a way to free up human staff time by handling routine questions and administrative tasks.
AI could reduce communication anxiety
Students noted that AI-driven support reduces stress related to traditional advising interactions.
AI-enabled resource navigation could increase service usage
With AI removing barriers to engagement by taking actions on behalf of students and staff, students are more likely to seek advising and support services.
Participants answered questions about their willingness to use AI for academic advising and other campus services, their level of trust in AI vs. human advisors, and any anxiety or comfort factors affecting these interactions.
Demographic information (year in school, region, etc.) was also collected to examine subgroup differences.
