Just Text Bruno!
Who is Bruno?
Meet Bruno, your AI-powered companion at the University of New Orleans, developed in collaboration with EdSights. As a cutting-edge SMS chatbot designed specifically for our university community, Bruno is available around the clock to ensure you never face academic or personal challenges alone. Whether you're a student needing quick answers to pressing questions, a faculty member looking for student engagement tools, or a family member seeking to understand campus resources, Bruno is here to assist—anytime, anywhere.
Bruno serves as a resource for your questions, and connects you to campus services and information regarding:
- Academic Success (Tutors, Academic Advisors, Study Skills)
- Financial Matters (Financial Aid, Filling out the FAFSA, Bursar)
- Student Life and Involvement Activities (Clubs, Organizations, Events)
- Mental and Physical Health, and Overall Wellbeing (Counseling Services, Nutrition, Campus Recreation)
- And so much more!
Bruno will learn about our student body through your text exchanges and also proactively engage with you on a regular basis in order to keep you informed and stay connected throughout your time at UNO.
At this time, Bruno is available to our undergraduate students via text, but may eventually be available to broader audiences in the near future. Anyone can chat with Bruno at anytime using the chat feature on the Current Student homepage.
Bruno's primary mission is to foster a supportive and interactive campus environment by providing instant access to a wide range of resources and information. From academic advising and financial aid assistance to details about student life and wellness services, Bruno is equipped to guide you through the complexities of college life with ease and efficiency. More than just a tool, Bruno aims to be a proactive member of our community, continually learning from interactions to better serve and understand the diverse needs of everyone at the University of New Orleans.
How do I meet Bruno?
Bruno will send an initial introductory text message to every UNO undergraduate student at the beginning of each semester. Once you receive that first text, add Bruno to your contacts and feel free to ask them questions about UNO any time!
Students who may need to update their cell phone number with the University in order to meet and chat with Bruno can click here to complete this form. (Please note that only current undergraduates can be added to the Bruno's contact list.)
Why "Bruno?"
Bruno is our beloved mascot and the inspiration for our chatbot! Captain Bruno, known for his spirited presence at university events and his role in rallying our students and faculty, represents the strength and perseverance that are core to our identity as a university.
In embracing the name for our AI-powered chatbot, we aimed to encapsulate these qualities into a tool that is not only helpful but also inspiring. Bruno the chatbot is more than just a source of information; it is a steadfast companion in your educational journey, ready to assist, engage, and encourage you just as Captain Bruno cheers from the sidelines during a game. This connection to a familiar and cherished figure makes Bruno more approachable and relatable, ensuring that our students, faculty, and families feel a sense of community support whenever they interact with the chatbot. Through Bruno, we extend the warmth and camaraderie of Captain Bruno into every corner of campus life, making our digital space as vibrant and supportive as our physical one.
Frequently Asked Questions
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I didn't save Bruno's number! How do I text him?
If you are an undergrad who is currently enrolled, you can text your question to 844-960-4135.
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I'm an undergraduate student but texting Bruno doesn't work.
Contact LeeAnne Sipe (lsipe@uno.edu) and let her know. Once your enrollment is confirmed, you'll be added to our user list!
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What are the most popular questions that students text Bruno?
- Where can I find out if the campus is closed due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g storm, weather)?
- Where can I find upcoming school events?
- How do I contact Financial Aid?
- When is the dining hall(s) open?
- Can I see a full academic calendar?
- How do I contact my advisor?
- When is Break?
- How do I get a refund (e.g. housing or tuition)?
- Where can I find information on clubs and organizations?
- How do I get a parking permit?
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What kinds of things do students ask the most about?
- Academics / Calendars
- Academics / Registrar
- Dining / Dining Services
- Campus / Other
- Services / Information Technology
- Activities / Events
- Financial Aid / Contact
- Financial Aid / Types of Aid
- Academics / Advising
- Services / Counseling
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How do I opt out from texts from Bruno?
Hearing from you is important to us, but we understand that you may not want to text with Bruno. Text "STOP" at any time to opt out.
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What happens when I text Bruno?
When you text Bruno, a few things happen:
- Bruno will share a relevant campus resource with you that you can explore based on your responses!
- If you've indicated that you need extra support, a human being will follow-up with you from a campus department! Usually that might be your academic advisor or someone in student affairs. It all depends on what assistance you need! Check your UNO email often to see if you've gotten any extra outreach.
If you are in danger or are in an emergency, please call 9-1-1 directly. AI is quite advanced, but Bruno is just a robot and not able to contact 9-1-1 on your behalf!
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What sort of messages will I get from Bruno?
Bruno will reach out occasionally throughout the semester to check-in on you! He might ask how you're doing in your classes, wish you a happy birthday, let you know about important campus updates, or ask your opinion about something on campus. You'll hear from Bruno every week or two!