TRIO – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

TRIO Links

Math Assistance Links

English Assistance Links

Staff

  • Director of Student Support Services
    Joel S. Figgs
    Phone: (620)417-1605
    Email: joel.figgs@sccc.edu
  • SSS Education Specialist
    Blanca Y. Castro
    Phone: (620)417-1607
    Email: blanca.castro@sccc.edu
  • SSS Program Coordinator/ Secretary
    Libby Garcia
    Phone: (620)417-1606
    Email: libby.garcia@sccc.edu

What is TRIO?

The Federal TRIO programs are educational opportunity outreach programs designed to motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Initially, there were three such federally-funded grant programs born out of the Higher Education Act of 1965—thus, the name TRIO. TRIO programs now include: Educational Opportunity Centers, Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement programs, Student Support Services, Talent Search programs, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math & Science, and Veterans Upward Bound.

Is TRIO an approved SCCC club or organization?

No. TRIO is a federally funded grant program. Click here to find a complete list of SCCC clubs and organizations.

Am I still in TRIO?

Once you are in TRIO, you are always in TRIO. As long as you honor your commitment to the program or graduate, you do not need to reapply each year. This also means you cannot “quit” TRIO.

What else can TRIO do for me?

TRIO offers numerous services including academic advisement, financial literacy such as FAFSA and scholarship assistance, career opportunities such as job shadowing and career assessments, professional tutoring, and transfer assistance.

Does TRIO give me money?

TRIO does offer a few scholarships to our active 2nd semester freshmen & sophomore students. You need to be receiving a Pell Grant, have unmet need remaining, and be active in the TRIO program. Being “active” means seeing your advisor regularly, coming in for tutoring, and participating in workshops, cultural events and transfer visits. However, based upon federally determined requirements, only a small percentage (usually about 10%) of participants qualify for this service. Therefore, students seeking only financial assistance from the program are not encouraged to apply. SSS does not offer anything known as a first-generation or beginning freshman scholarship.

 I’m trying to enroll but am unable to. Why can’t I?

All TRIO students must see their TRIO advisor before they can enroll for the upcoming semester so we can ensure you are following your degree plan.

 I need help with writing a paper. Where do I go?

Our Education Specialist can help you with any paper that you need to write–not just English papers. Remember, you can always drop in, but if you want to make sure you get help, make an appointment.

 Do I need to make an appointment to see a TRIO advisor or the Education Specialist?

No, but you may have to wait if you don’t schedule a time.