The TRiO – SSS Program
TRiO — Student Support Services (TRiO — SSS) is committed to helping students progress toward graduation and gain the necessary skills to continue their education or begin their careers.
The TRiO — SSS program is funded by a U.S. Department of Education grant. The program’s goal is to provide resources to support St. Mary’s University’s first-generation college students, low-income students and students with disabilities as they are earning their degree.
97%Persistence rate
140Students in the program
89%Students in Good Academic Standing
TRiO Program Success
St. Mary’s has a tradition of success for students accepted into the TRiO — SSS program. Through academic and career advising, financial literacy, individual coaching and community building, we are helping disadvantaged students graduate.
TRiO Services
Eligible St. Mary’s students have access to a wide range of college and career support services in an effort to aid in retention and improve graduation rates. All services are free for program participants.
Academic Success
- Goal setting and course selection
- Study groups
- Study skills
- Time management
- Tutoring and writing assistance
Financial Aid and Literacy
- Financial aid assistance
- Financial literacy workshops
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and scholarship application assistance
College and Career Readiness
- Performance and anxiety reduction
- Research paper assistance
- Time management and procrastination detouring tools
Career Exploration and Preparation
- Employer site visits
- Job tours and shadowing
- Professional networking opportunities
- Résumé and cover letter development and editing
Post-Grad Education Exploration and Preparation
- Graduate and professional school application assistance
- Entrance exam preparation
- Regional school tours
Program Eligibility
To participate in the program, St. Mary’s students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents who meet one of the following criteria:
- First-generation college student (neither parent has received a bachelor’s degree)
- Student with a documented life-long disability
- Student who meets specific approved federal income levels
| Family Size | Maximum Income Level (Taxable Income) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,870 |
| 2 | $29,580 |
| 3 | $37,290 |
| 4 | $45,000 |
| 5 | $52,710 |
| 6 | $60,420 |
| 7 | $68,130 |
| 8 | $75,840 |
Families with more than eight members or those living in Alaska or Hawaii, please contact Marcy LaBossiere, Director of TRiO – Student Support Services, at mlabossiere@stmarytx.edu.
View Federal Income Chart
Apply to the TRiO – SSS Program
If you meet the requirements listed above and would like to be considered for the TRiO – SSS program, please complete the form below.
Learn More
Please contact Marcy LaBossiere, Director of TRiO – Student Support Services, at mlabossiere@stmarytx.edu with any questions regarding the program.