Group of TRiO students and TRiO logo

What Are the Benefits of Participating in TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)?

  • Proactive university transfer advising
  • Strengths based mentoring
  • Academic and career guidance
  • Financial empowerment coaching
  • Cultural activities
  • College campus visits
  • Supportive family community of peers, staff/faculty, and leaders
  • Emergency funding
  • Laptop and calculator lending library

What Services Are Offered by TRIO?

  • Proactive personal coaching and mentorship - Mentorship provided for time and money management, study skills and peer mentoring
  • Academic tutoring
  • Academic and career guidance
  • Advice and assistance in college course selection
  • Transfer assistance
  • Scholarship support
  • Emergency funding
  • Transfer assistance
  • Leadership and student involvement opportunities

What Events Are Available to Participants?

  • First-Generation College Student celebration
  • Money Talks Tuesday - learn how to manage your money and budget
  • Transfer Thursdays and More - learn everything about the transfer process
  • We Work Wednesday - collaborating with your peers and getting work done
  • Heritage month celebrations
  • Financial Aid information sessions
  • Quarterly social gathering and academic recognition

Who is Eligible for TRIO?

TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) serves first-generation college students, income eligible students, or students with a documented disability who present an academic need for additional support. You may be eligible for TRIO SSS services if you meet the following criteria:

  1. You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  2. You plan to attend Pierce College Fort Steilacoom in Lakewood, Washington.
  3. You are planning to obtain a transferable associate degree within four years.
  4. You plan to transfer to a four-year college or university immediately after obtaining an associate degree from Pierce College. Transfer to a Pierce College Bachelors program upon completion of associate is acceptable.
  5. You have an academic need based on at least one of the following:
    • Enrolled or Guided Self-Placement in Math 77/98, English 98/99, or any English or Math co-req class.
    • Earned a GED.
    • Have been out of school for five or more years and this is your first quarter.
    • Additional qualifiers for academic need may include low grade point average, undecided major, or limited English proficiency.
  6. You meet at least one of the following criteria:
    • Are a first-generation college student (neither of your parents has earned a bachelor's degree or higher.)
    • Meet federal income requirements.
    • Have a documented disability or receiving services with Access Disability Services department at Pierce College.