Office for Student Success introduces The Study Hub, First Connect for fall semester

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 13, 2026) — As the start of the fall semester nears, the University of Kentucky’s Office for Student Success is introducing new names for two of its student support programs to make it easier for students to identify and connect with academic and campus resources. The updated identities reflect each program’s role in supporting students from their first semester through graduation. 

Transformative Learning is now The Study Hub and CARES First-Generation has become First Connect. Although the names have changed, each program continues its commitment to helping students build confidence, find community and access the support they need to succeed. Together, they offer clear entry points for students seeking academic support, personalized guidance and meaningful campus connections throughout their UK experience. 

“These new names make it easier for students to understand what each office offers and where to go for support,” said Molly Reynolds, associate vice president for student excellence. “The Study Hub clearly communicates that it is a central place for academic support, bringing together tutoring, supplemental instruction, integrated success coaching and other learning resources. First Connect emphasizes helping first-year students build connections, find resources and successfully navigate the transition to college. The names also reflect what our staff do every day: build relationships, support students through challenges and help them discover their strengths and potential.” 

The Study Hub serves as UK’s centralized academic support center, offering free services for undergraduate and graduate students that strengthen their learning, develop effective academic habits and build confidence throughout their college experience. Located in the Boone Center, Patterson Hall and Jewell Hall, The Study Hub complements classroom learning through individualized and peer-led support tailored to students’ academic needs. 

Services available through The Study Hub include: 

• Peer tutoring (drop-in and individual) 

• Supplemental instruction 

• Integrated success coaching 

• Success mentors 

• Presentation U 

Although The Study Hub is designed to support students, faculty also play an important role in connecting them with the academic resources they need to succeed. Faculty referrals are one of the strongest predictors of students utilizing academic support, and a personalized recommendation can normalize help-seeking while connecting students with the resource that best meets their needs. Rather than providing a general list of campus resources, faculty are encouraged to recommend a specific service based on a student’s individual challenge. Even a brief conversation about why a particular resource may be helpful can increase the likelihood that a student will seek support. 

First Connect helps students navigate their transition into college during their first year. Through in-person and virtual check-ins, proactive outreach, engagement opportunities, resource awareness and student navigation support, the program helps students build confidence, make informed decisions and connect with the people, programs and services that support their success throughout their college journey. 

Students are encouraged to contact First Connect if they’re unsure where to turn for support, need help identifying the right campus office or resource, are looking for peer mentoring or are struggling to build campus connections. The program helps students address concerns early while linking them with the people and resources best equipped to support their success. 

Students who are not currently involved with First Connect can self-enroll in its Canvas community, which provides access to resources, updates and additional support opportunities. 

Reynolds said connecting with these resources early can make a meaningful difference in students’ success. 

“The earlier students connect with support, the more likely they are to develop the habits, relationships and confidence that contribute to long-term success,” Reynolds said. “The Study Hub and First Connect are positioned to help students address challenges before they become obstacles. 

“Early connections also help students feel like they belong. When students know where to turn for help and have people in their corner, they are more likely to stay engaged, persist through setbacks and continue making progress toward graduation.” 

Together, The Study Hub and First Connect reflect the Office for Student Success’ commitment to ensuring every student has access to the academic support, mentorship and campus connections needed to succeed throughout their time at UK. By helping students remove barriers, build meaningful connections and access support early, the programs reinforce the university’s commitment to student success. 

Students can learn more about The Study Hub by visiting its locations in the Boone Center, Patterson Hall or Jewell Hall, or by emailing thestudyhub@uky.edu. Students interested in First Connect can visit the office in Room 104 of McVey Hall, explore the program’s website or contact the office at firstconnect@uky.edu or 859-323-6347.