What is TRIO?

TRIO is a federally funded program in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and other jurisdictions (e.g. Guam, Federated States of Micronesia, Northern Mariana Islands, etc.) – see map below. TRIO assists low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities. This program motivates middle school and high school students to progress from grade to grade and ultimately graduate from high school and attend college. Their goal is to get students to pursue their career path and be their best self.  Some of the services TRIO provides are tutoring, counseling, college tours, financial aid assistance, workshops (Financial Literacy, Time Management, etc.). This program makes it easier to meet fellow students and develop a life long friendship.

Is There a TRIO Program on Campus?

Yes, the office is located in the back of the media center (1-145G). The advisor for this school is Ms. Heaven and her supervisor is Mr. Mario. When asked if Ms. Heaven was apart of the TRIO program while in high school, she responded by saying, “I never knew about the TRIO while I was in high school, however, I wish I knew about it.  Like most students I speak with, I am from a Caribbean Island and I never knew what pathways to take to get to the next level. I made it, but if I knew about TRIO I would’ve reached a little faster.” TRIO has been around since 1965. Famous people like Viola Davis and Oprah Winfrey were apart of TRIO.

Why should students join TRIO?

According to Ms. Heaven, students should join because, “Like your Guidance counselor, TRIO wants you to enlighten students to be the best version of themselves possible.” The advisors guide their students on the right path by going on college tours, dual enrollment opportunities, and workshops such as time management, study skills, and financial literacy. “I’m playing a mentor, Coach and echoing the voice of their parents, in a way to motivate these kid.”

Naonie, a TRIO student also states, “She’s like a role model and a supporter, always pushing me and seeing the potential in me even when I don’t.”

TRIO has eight different programs according to the U.S. Department of Education

according to Ed.gov those include…

TRIO Programs

1. Educational Opportunity Centers: The Educational Opportunity Centers program provides counseling and information on college admissions to qualified adults who want to enter or continue a program of post-secondary education.
2. Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Through a grant competition: funds are awarded to institutions of higher education to prepare eligible participants for doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities.
3. Student Support Services:  Through a grant competition, funds are awarded to institutions of higher education to provide opportunities for academic development, assist students with basic college requirements, and to motivate students toward the successful completion of their post-secondary education
4. Talent Search: The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education.
5. Training Program for Federal TRIO Programs Staff: Through a grant competition, funds are awarded to institutions of higher education and other public and private nonprofit institutions and organizations to support training to enhance the skills and expertise of project directors and staff employed in the Federal TRIO Programs.
6. Upward Bound Upward Bound: provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance.
7. Upward Bound Math-Science (STEM):  The Upward Bound Math and Science program is designed to strengthen the math and science skills of participating students.
8.  Veteran Upward Bound: Veterans Upward Bound is designed to motivate and assist veterans in the development of academic and other requisite skills necessary for acceptance and success in a program of postsecondary education.