TRIO Inducts New Students

 “Change the conversation with yourself, then change the conversation you have with others.” These were the words of encouragement from TRIO Director Monica N. Turner at the 2013 Trio Induction Ceremony.

Turner told students and parents gathered for the ceremony that the inductees have a promising future and she expresed her utmost love and support for her new inductees.

The purpose of the TRIO Achievers Program is to serve first generation, low-income, and disabled students through their college and academic journey. What makes this program unique from others is that it is not based on GPA, but need. For students who once thought college was too expensive, or lacked a high GPA, they now have a resource to assist them on their path to a college degree. TRIO provides services such as financial counseling, tutoring, and career development. TRIO staff members routinely sit down with their achievers for academic advising, resume building and scholarship submissions.

As the daughter of a single mother, TRIO inductee Samirah Yates said that TRIO makes her feel as though she has “one big family”. She said she appreciates the educational, financial, and moral support she has already received.

Likewise, Jasmine McLaughiln, a fourth-year TRIO Achiever expressed her gratitude for the program. “I literally did not have to come out of pocket for college, TRIO helped me pay for my entire tuition.” She went on to explain in depth the campus activities, cultural events, and workshops the program has provided, which she stated has helped her become a well-rounded individual. Most college students who go through the program spend little to no money on tuition fees due to the constant advisement of TRIO.

“Advance your legacy as a citizen, as an individual, and for your family," Turner said, encouraging her new inductees. Proud family members looked on and applauded enthusiastically as the new achievers were pinned by upperclassmen.