TRIO SSS is a federally funded program that provides academic and social support to students who are historically under-represented in higher education. To qualify for this program, you must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident. You can not already have received a Bachelor's degree. You must also meet at least 1 of these criteria:
Be a first-generation college student: This means that neither one of the parents that you received support from growing up completed a BA degree or higher.
Be able to identify as an income eligible student according to the income guidelines set by the Department of Education. If you are eligible for a Pell Grant, then you are likely to meet this criteria. This information is also determined by your taxable income which is found on your most recent tax form.
You may have a documented physical or learning disability and are registered with our Accessibility Support Services through CASA.
We offer qualifying students the following services:
FREE access to TRIO SSS scholarships and other TRIO NM statewide scholarships. Plus opportunities to connect to other TRIO students across the state.
FREE access to tours of 4-year campuses like UNM Main campus in Albuquerque, NM and Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM and other local colleges. Students are able to explore their future degree programs and campus services!
FREE individualized academic advising. Your advisor will help you understand your degree program, help you register for classes, connect you to campus resources, explore your career interests and guide you towards a meaningful college experience.
FREE access to fun social and cultural events so that you can learn about your community and connect with other TRIO SSS students!
Student Voice: Adrian Rodriguez, Pre-Science, First-Generation Student
"TRIO SSS is a welcoming and accepting program. This program has supported me in many academic ways to succeed. TRIO SSS does not only help you academically it also creates different events for example bowling nights, where we gather around to have food, meet new people, get to know a little more about each other, and just have fun. It is a great way to relieve some stress and take a breather. Personally, this has been great for me because it also opened doors to different opportunities, and it is always nice seeing a familiar face down the hallway".
Student Voice: Esmeralda Zarazua, A.A Liberal Arts, Criminal Justice. Parent, Non-Traditional Student, and English Language Learner.
“Before I joined TRIO-SSS, I had more complications with my classes, I felt that I did not have adequate support or motivation, but now, since I am in the TRIO-SSS program, it has helped me a lot in the way of applying for all available scholarships. The TRIO SSS program has different ways to help you as well as advise you on your classes and which ones are best for your degree; they also have a platform to help to give you money management tips. They also take you to field trips. It is the best program for students because it helps me to be motivated and keep going until I finish my dream career. And I have a very wonderful and supportive advisor”.
Who Are TRIO Students?? Our students come from many backgrounds! They include students who are:
• The first in their family to go to college
• Working Full or Part-Time Jobs
• Parents and Caregivers
• Returning Adult and Senior Students
• Enrolled in Certificates or Degree Programs
• Anyone who wants to connect with other students!
Student Voice: Nathan Oswald, Pre-Science. First-Generation, Non-Traditional student.
As a first-generation and later-in-life student, I was eligible to join TRIO-SSS. TRIO-SSS has provided many opportunities for personal and social enrichment at the events and workshops they host regularly. One of the challenges faced by non-traditional students is socially integrating into the campus community, and TRIO-SSS events and workshops have provided me with several great opportunities to build and grow relationships with fellow students. I would heartily recommend that any eligible student consider joining TRIO-SSS for the support, advisement, scholarship, personal enrichment, and social opportunities can provide. I hope that the program continues to be available for students in the future, and would encourage those eligible to join and participate. I would like to thank the organization and all those involved in providing these valuable and accessible services”
Student Voice: Muhammed Al Sharif, Pre-Science.
"As an international student, the TRIO-SSS program has always been a great source of support for me. The program offers workshops to help students learn how to manage their time as well as other activities like bowling where all students can get to know each other".