The U-Link Learning Center at University High School, part of Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, serves as an educational hub focused on enhancing academic success through a range of tailored support services, under the direction of Dr. Kirsten Hany.  At its core, the U-Link offers a robust peer tutoring program (in the subjects of math, chemistry, and writing) designed to foster collaborative learning and personal growth. This initiative pairs students with skilled peer tutors who have excelled in their respective subjects.  Peer tutors are identified by content teachers and receive mentor specific training through the U-Link director.  The peer tutors are given an independent study credit and graded on a standards-based rubric aligned with the U-Link learning standards.  The goal for this program is that any student could come to the U-Link during the school day and receive academic support in the identified areas.  Peer tutors are also utilized in full class instruction to offer assistance to teachers as needed.  

In addition to peer tutoring, the U-Link Learning Center has a strong collaboration with Illinois State University pre-service teachers who bring a wealth of knowledge and academic expertise to the table.  The U-Connect program features college tutors specializing in a range of subjects who traditionally assist students with mathematics and literacy based skills.  These tutors offer a higher level of personalized support that caters to the individual needs of each student and are paid for their time spent tutoring. Their guidance is instrumental in helping students navigate complex coursework, prepare for exams, and achieve their academic goals.

While any student can access a peer or college aged tutor some students are assigned to the U-Link based on feedback from teachers and grade outcomes.  The supports these assigned students receive are personalized to their identified need set.  This can vary from systems of organization, social/emotional check ins, and completing missing work.  Students do not need academic support to access the U-Link, it also operates as a dedicated study space, a flexible assessment location, or just for a space to recharge.  By providing these essential resources and support mechanisms, the U-Link helps students build a solid foundation for academic success and personal development.