Serving SWGCC students since 2000.

WHAT IS TRIO STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES?

TRIO is a series of grant programs created by Congress under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Established to help students overcome the financial, social and cultural barriers to higher education by increasing college retention and graduation rates for eligible students.

The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program at the Sam Wolf Granite City Campus, funded through the U.S. Department of Education, is designed to assist students who are first-generation, low-income and/or have disabilities complete their college education.

TRIO SSS assists students by providing individualized support for academic success and degree completion. TRIO SSS also assists with personalized college transfer planning.

WHAT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?

• Computer lab
• Tutoring
• Assistance with the transfer process
• Workshops on career development, study skills, financial literacy and test-taking strategies
• Laptop computer loans
• Calculator loans
• Textbook loans
• College visits
• Cultural experiences
• Career information resources
• Scholarship search assistance

AM I ELIGIBLE?

You may be eligible for assistance through TRIO Student Support Services if any of the following statements describes you or your situation:

• You are a first-generation student. (Your parents or guardians have not received a four-year bachelor’s degree.)
• You receive financial aid. (If you are eligible for a Pell Grant, you may fit the eligible income level.)
• You have a documented disability.

What Do Students Have to Say About TRIO?

TRIO Student Support Services has only benefited my college experience since joining. Once I made the decision to enroll in college, the thought of help and motivation from others had not crossed my mind. From receiving one on one care from staff or even the amazing college trips we took to learn more about prospective colleges, TRIO has definitely given me information as well as motivation that I will use even after college in order to push and better myself to flourish in both my personal life and career. – Justin H.

I love that SSS builds friendly relationships with you and helps you to succeed. – Holly W.

The impact TRIO has played on my education is not limited to academics. Yes, TRIO has lessened the burden to my wallet by loaning books, providing computer access, and tutoring assistance, but what made the most difference to me was the emotional and physical support I received during my second semester at Southwestern Illinois College. It is wonderful knowing that my future lies before me and it is up to me to choose my path. I intend to follow that path into the world of business technology. – Ticia M.

TO APPLY

Then bring the completed form to Room 440 at the Sam Wolf Granite City Campus, mail a copy to the address on the form or attach the form to an email and send it to TRIOSSSProgram@swic.edu. Once received, the application will be reviewed to determine eligibility for the program.

CONTACT US

For more information, contact the SWGCC Student Support Services Program Office at 618-931-0600, ext. 7443, or toll free at 866-942-SWIC (7942), ext. 7443; or contact Student Support Services Program Director Cyria Canessa at cyria.canessa@swic.edu.