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South Bend Campus

South Bend Main Campus Elkhart

ASK BLAZE:

Creating a Community for Success

Blaze the phoenix is a friendly and intelligent chatbot designed to check in with Ivy Tech South Bend/Elkhart students about their college experience and provide resources for any challenges they may encounter. Interacting with students via text message, Blaze is named after our beloved mascot, Blaze, and serves as an additional layer of support. This chatbot is here to answer your questions, communicate important information throughout the school year, and gather valuable feedback from students. Think of Blaze as a "Siri" specifically created for Ivy Tech. Welcome to our inclusive network of support—your community for success at Ivy Tech South Bend/Elkhart!

Who is Blaze?

Blaze is an artificial intelligence (A.I.) texting chatbot dedicated to student success at Ivy Tech South Bend/Elkhart! Blaze is here to engage with our students, answering questions and addressing any challenges they may encounter as they navigate college life—on-demand, 24/7. This chatbot serves as a valuable resource, connecting students to support services and information on:

  • Academics (Tutors, Academic Advisors, Study Skills)
  • Financial Matters (Financial Aid, FAFSA Assistance, Bill Payment Plans)
  • Student Life and Involvement (Clubs, Organizations, Events)
  • Mental and Physical Health, and Wellbeing (Counseling, Campus Recreation)
  • And so much more!

Blaze continually learns about our student body through text interactions and proactively engages with students to keep them informed and connected throughout their journey at Ivy Tech South Bend/Elkhart.

How Does Blaze Help Students?

Blaze periodically initiates conversations with students to understand the challenges they may be facing. Whether it's feeling connected to the campus community or balancing work and classes, these interactions are designed to connect students with the resources and staff available at Ivy Tech South Bend/Elkhart to support their success.

Blaze is also available 24/7 to respond to any student-initiated questions about Ivy Tech. For example, students can ask, "How do I apply for scholarships?" or "What are the hours of the library?" Simply text Blaze.

Take Charge of Your Overall Well-Being

Blaze will send an introductory "hello" text message to every new Ivy Tech student. (Students may need to update their cell phone number in Banner to chat with Blaze.) Once you receive that first message, add Blaze to your contacts and feel free to reach out with any questions about Ivy Tech at any time! Ivy Tech: Where your success is our mission!