April 19, 2024 - Robert Hayes (Student Advising)

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 19, 2024) – Robert Hayes is the Executive Director of Student Community Resources and Services in the UK Office for Student Success. His expertise and mission lies in providing support to first-generation students and offering academic advising within the College of Arts & Sciences.

 He believes academic advisors serve as critical touchpoints for students, ensuring they navigate the complexities of higher education seamlessly. From pre-matriculation meetings to summer orientations, these interactions lay the groundwork for student success.

 Additionally, Hayes sees the unique challenges faced by first-generation students, particularly with disparities in social capital. While these students may lack the familial frame of reference for higher education, he highlights the immense growth potential they possess.

 On this episode of Behind the Blue, Hayes discusses the pivotal role advisors play as the bridge between students and the myriad of resources available to them, the evolving narrative around first-generation student research, and how institutions are shifting towards an assets-based approach, empowering students to embrace their journey with confidence.

 "Behind the Blue" is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify. Become a subscriber to receive new episodes of “Behind the Blue” each week. UK’s latest medical breakthroughs, research, artists and writers will be featured, along with the most important news impacting the university.

 Transcripts for this or other episodes of Behind the Blue can be downloaded from the show’s blog page.

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