The Trio program is an outstanding resource for college students.  Thousands of students have found the pre-college and college support services vital for their success.

As early as the 1970’s, Trio programs have made significant contributions to the college going population of low income and new college bound students.  There are three programs Upward Bound, Talent Search and Student Support Services.    These programs where created because of the dedication of educators. They realized that there was a segment of students that needed special support to apply to college.  The Upward Bound program has helped thousands of students to attend college.  They intervene when there are problems with the student’s grades and motivation level.  The Upward Bound program provides tutoring at the right time when students are making a decision to stay in school.  Some Talent Search programs can get to be pretty big interest when they are publicized.  This program reaches out to the very bright students who can make it with an additional push to go to college.

The Trio programs have helped to ensure that colleges make a connection with high schools in various cities.  The campus is able to have a program that also demonstrates how they intend to make a difference for low income and first generation college students.  The tutoring and mentoring that students receive has consistently helped students to reach new levels of academic achievement.  These students may not have any one at home that they can talk to about their college experience.  When they participate in a Trio program they realize their high school study skills will not suffice for college.

The Student Support Program provides the kind of supports that help undergraduate students to make a smooth transition to college life.  The Student Support Program staff follows the students during their entire enrollment in college.  These programs have prevented numerous students from dropping out of college.  It continues the support services that the Upward Bound and Talent Search staff does not provide for college students.

Parents also benefit from the knowledge that is shared through the Trio programs.  Many of the parents attend Saturday sessions to get early information about college.  The parents benefit from going on college tours and talking with admissions officers.  It is a great way to alleviate the fears associated with deciding on a college.  The Trio programs ensure that parents and students are not too prideful to ask for tutoring.  The Trio program is a legacy that must continue to break the barriers that make prevent thousands of students from attending college.

 Dr. Stephen Jones is a nationally recognized educator and author of the “Seven Secrets of How to Study” and the “Parent’s Ultimate Education Guide.  You can contact him at 866-544-5490 or stephenjoness@rcn.com and visit www.sevenbooks.net.