To better connect with students, Parking and Transportation Services hosted two tabling events in September, offering helpful information and on-the-spot answers to common questions.
At each event, the department displayed two large posters—one detailing shuttle services and another explaining how to park correctly so the license plate reader can scan plates properly. In addition to helpful information, the department also handed out a variety of giveaways.
Over the course of the two events, staff engaged with 55 students, fielding a wide range of questions about Parking and Transportation services. Some topics, however, came up more frequently than others.
“The most common questions were probably about the campus shuttles—where they go, where the stops are located, and whether they’re free,” said Brandon Richard, Parking and Transportation Communication Coordinator. “We also got questions about Cougar Ride, the Cougar Line, the Sugar Land shuttle — including what’s required to use it — and the COAST program.”
Sophomore Ethan Nguyen, a health major, was one of the 55 students who stopped by to learn more. After speaking with the department, he walked away with a much better understanding of the services available to him.
Nguyen asked about the Sugar Land shuttle, Cougar Ride, and shuttle wait times. During the conversation, he learned that the UH Go app allows students to track Cougar shuttles in real time — including their location, estimated arrival times, and current capacity.
“I got what I wanted answered,” Nguyen said. “They were able to respond quickly, which showed how knowledgeable they are.”
For Nguyen, the convenience of having his questions answered on the spot highlighted the value of these tabling events. He also appreciated not having to make a trip across campus to the Parking and Transportation customer service building.
While the department maintains a robust online presence and regularly sends emails about its services, Richard emphasized the importance of in-person outreach.
“You might skim through an email and miss an important piece of information, but it’s much harder to walk past a booth that’s handing out cool items,” he said. “Plus, getting your question answered immediately is a huge benefit. These events show our commitment to improving communication on campus and making sure students are informed.”
To learn more about all the services Parking and Transportation offers, visit the department’s website and you can also check out the department’s new chatbot service.
