The University introduced Frankie, an AI-powered chatbot, over the summer. Frankie’s purpose is to help students navigate campus life, resources and deadlines.
Marketed as a 24/7 “companion in your pocket,” Frankie is built to provide quick answers, reminders and connections to University services, all through text messages.
According to the University, Frankie is meant to make the semester smoother for students.
“Whether you need quick answers, helpful resources, reminders about important deadlines, or just a friendly check-in, Frankie is only a text away,” read the SFU statement announcing its release.
The chatbot is intended to provide support ranging from sharing updates to directing students to offices when extra help is needed.
Frankie, when asked by this reporter, explained his role: “I’m here to answer SFU-related questions, like how to contact Financial Aid. However, for some queries, you might still need SFU staff. If I were to improve, I’d aim to offer even more personalized assistance.”
Frankie’s digital availability could make things easier for students who don’t always have time to physically stop by an office to find answers to their questions.
As Frankie noted, he can’t do everything. For some questions, students may need to connect with University staff directly.
