Why Join?
By joining the TRIO Program, you’ll gain access to a wide range of services designed to support your academic journey and help you achieve your educational goals. Some of the key benefits include:
- Personalized Advising: Work with a dedicated TRIO counselor to help plan your academic path and transfer goals.
- Exclusive Access: Enjoy use of the TRIO office, computer lab, and study space to enhance your learning.
- Academic Support: Access tutoring in a variety of subjects to ensure you stay on track.
- Career Readiness: Participate in workshops that build skills for success in college and your future career.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with TRIO alumni and other students across the country.
- College Tours: Explore four-year universities and visit Silicon Valley companies to enhance your career prospects.
Eligibility Requirements
To join the TRIO Program, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible undocumented student.
- Meet at least one of the following:
- First-generation college student (neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree).
- Low-income (according to federal TRIO income guidelines).
- Documented learning or physical disability.
- Must be enrolled at Mission College for at least two more semesters.
- Must plan to graduate with a certificate or A.A./A.S. degree at Mission College.
Program Components
The TRIO Program offers comprehensive support to help you succeed in your college journey:
- Advising: TRIO provides educational planning, career goal setting, and guidance on university transfer. You’ll work closely with a counselor who will support your transfer and career development.
- Exclusive Access: Take advantage of dedicated study space in the TRIO office, computer lab, and other resources to help you succeed academically.
- Tutoring: Get academic support in a variety of subjects, ensuring you stay on top of your coursework.
- Workshops: Participate in skill-building workshops focusing on college success, career readiness, and personal development.
- College Tours: TRIO arranges visits to four-year universities and Silicon Valley companies, providing valuable exposure to transfer and career opportunities.
- Networking: Build connections with TRIO alumni, peer students, and professionals nationwide, expanding your support network and career opportunities.
The TRIO Program offers a variety of services to ensure your success:
- Counseling & Advising: Receive guidance for transfer planning, major exploration, and graduate school preparation.
- Financial Aid Assistance: Get help navigating financial aid options to meet your educational needs.
- Personalized Support: TRIO counselors and staff provide ongoing academic and personal support to ensure your success.
History of TRIO
The TRIO program began in the 1960s as part of the U.S. government's efforts to support students from low-income and disadvantaged backgrounds. It started with Upward Bound in 1964 and later expanded to include Talent Search and Student Support Services (originally known as Special Services for Disadvantaged Students). These programs became known as TRIO, which currently serves thousands of students nationwide.
At Mission College, the TRIO Student Support Services grant was first funded in 1996, serving 165 students annually. In 2020, the TRIO STEM grant was introduced, expanding support for students pursuing careers in STEM fields. Today, the TRIO program at Mission College serves a total of 285 students each academic year.Contact Us
Manuel Salazar
Director
(408) 855-5007, ext. 5191
Vianey Topete
Program Specialist/Front Desk
(408) 855-5007, ext. 5192
Visit Us
Questions? We’re here to help.
Come visit us in the Student Engagement Center
(SEC) Office 146