Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
^topWhat is TRIO Student Support Services?
Student Support Services (SSS) is a federal TRIO program that offers services to help participants succeed in college and graduate on a timely basis. Our purpose is to increase retention, graduation, and transfer rates among our students. The services include free tutoring, academic, financial aid and financial literacy advising, career development assistance, personal, academic, and career counseling, job shadowing and college success workshops and discussions.
Can everyone participate?
No. SSS serves eligible students only. These include first-generation college students (neither parent graduated with a four-year degree) and income-eligible students (as determined by federal guidelines), as well as students with a documented disability. The program is an exclusive program and can only accept 160 students per academic term. Selection is on a first-come, first-served basis, so do not hesitate to apply. All students who do not apply on time may be placed on a waiting list until the following academic term.
Why should I become a participant?
SSS provides a personal college "safety net" from the freshman year through graduation. The program can help you build on your strengths and address your areas of concern. By becoming a participant, you will gain access to services and opportunities not available to other students on campus.
If I join SSS, what am I required to do?
It is expected that you will be committed to earning your degree and that you will take advantage of SSS services that meet your academic needs. Additionally, SSS participants are required to work with their success coach on a regular basis to reach agreed upon goals.
^topCan SSS help with the transition to college life?
Yes! SSS makes the transition smoother by offering one-on-one advising and career counseling as well as workshops on managing your time efficiently, getting along with instructors, financing your education, planning your four-year degree and beyond, and many other topics.
I would like to meet more students like me. How can SSS help?
The SSS team arranges many social and educational events each academic term. The SSS program also collaborates with a variety of campus departments and student activities groups to promote events and activities that students can attend together.
I have declared a major, but I am not sure it's right for me. Can SSS help?
Absolutely! SSS offers students supplemental academic advising as well as career counseling. SSS can help you to determine a program that best suits you interests, strengths, and long-term plans, then help you to map out which courses you need and when to take them.
How much time does it take to participate in the SSS program?
It depends on which services you decide to use. It can take as little as a few hours to several hours each term. That is up to you.
Does it cost money to join?
No. All services are provided free of charge.
How long can I be in the program?
It is expected that you will remain in the program until you graduate.
^topWho do I contact if I have questions?
Contact the student support services program specialist at 863-784-7291.