TRiO
The U. S. Department of Education, over 30 years ago, made a commitment to providing educational opportunities for all Americans regardless of race, ethnic background, or economic circumstances. In support of this commitment, Congress established a series of programs to help students overcome academic, social, cultural and class barriers to higher education. These programs are referred to as TRIO (because initially only three programs were created). TRIO programs target students who are first in their families to go to college, low-income by federal guidelines or have a learning or physical disability.
A TRIO program, known as Student Support Services, has maintained grant funding at Washington University since the early 1970s. Approximately 10% of the Washington University’s undergraduate student body is TRIO eligible, however, each year Washington University targets to provide comprehensive services to 200 Washington University TRIO eligible undergraduates.
Professional TRIO staff offer student services which include academic advising, individualized academic coaching, workshops to strengthen skills in writing, chemistry, biology and mathematics, assistance in preparing for graduate school admission examinations, and experience working with and in study groups led by a trained academic peer mentor. In addition, cultural and leadership programs, summer internship assistance and information regarding other campus resources are available. Also, students may apply for monetary assistance for tuition, book purchases, pre-freshmen program scholarships and study abroad opportunities.
For more information regarding TRIO programs or eligibility, please call 935-8802