What is the TRiO – SSS Program?
Funded by the federal TRiO – Student Support Services division of the Department of Education, the goal is to provide St. Mary’s University first-generation college students, low-income students, and students with disabilities the resources needed to earn their degree.
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.
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 Support
- Goal setting and course selection
- Tutoring and writing assistance
- Study groups
- Time management
- Study skills
Financial Aid and Literacy
- FAFSA and scholarship application assistance
- Financial literacy workshops
- Financial aid assistance
College/Career Readiness
- Time management and procrastination tools
- Performance anxiety reduction
- Research paper help
Career Exploration and Preparation
- Job tours and shadowing
- Résumé and cover letter development and editing
- Professional networking opportunities
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 a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who meets one of the following criteria:
- Be a first-generation college student (neither parent has received a bachelor’s degree)
- Be a student with a documented life-long disability
- Be a student who meets specific approved federal income levels (see chart below)
| 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.
Program Success
St. Mary’s has already seen success for the students accepted into the TRiO – SSS program. Through academic and career advising, financial literacy, individual coaching and community building, our goal of helping disadvantaged students graduate is being met.
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.