Spalding University TRIO Student Support Services Program

The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Program at Spalding University is a federally funded program through the U.S. Department of Education designed to increase college retention, academic success, and graduation rates for eligible students. TRIO Student Support Services is completely free for eligible students thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Education.

What is TRIO?

TRIO programs were established under the Higher Education Act of 1965 as part of the federal government’s commitment to educational opportunity and access.

Student Support Services (SSS) is one of the original TRIO programs and serves students who are:

• First-generation college students (neither parent earned a bachelor’s degree)
• Income-eligible students
• Students with documented disabilities

The goal of TRIO SSS is simple: help students stay in college, succeed academically, and graduate

Who is Eligible for TRIO Student Support Services?

Students may qualify if they are:

• First-generation college students (neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree)
• Income-eligible based on federal guidelines (https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/federal-trio-programs/federal-trio-programs-current-year-low-income-levels)
• Students with documented disabilities

Students must also:

• Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
• Be enrolled at Spalding University
• Demonstrate academic need

Our Mission

The Spalding University TRIO SSS Program is committed to:

• Increasing first-to-second year retention rates
• Improving academic standing and GPA
• Supporting timely degree completion
• Preparing students for graduate school and/or professional careers
• Promoting financial literacy and academic independence
• We believe in holistic student support — academic, financial, personal, and professional.

Services We Provide

TRIO SSS offers comprehensive support services at no cost to eligible participants:

Academic Support

• Academic advising and success coaching
• Degree planning and course selection assistance
• Study skills development
• Tutoring referrals and academic workshops
• Early alert and academic recovery support

Financial Literacy & Assistance

• FAFSA and financial aid guidance
• Scholarship search assistance
• Budgeting and financial literacy workshops
• Graduate school financial planning

Career & Professional Development

• Career exploration and planning
• Resume and cover letter support
• Interview preparation
• Graduate school preparation
• Networking and professional skill development

Personal & Campus Engagement

• One-on-one mentoring
• Time management and goal-setting workshops
• Leadership development
• Educational enrichment activities
• Campus and community resource referrals

Why Join TRIO SSS?

Students in TRIO SSS receive:

• Personalized academic support
• Direct access to dedicated advisors
• Accountability and goal-setting support
• A strong support network
• Opportunities for leadership and growth
• Priority access to workshops and enrichment activities

TRIO SSS is more than a program — it’s a community.

Program Expectations

As a TRIO SSS participant, students are expected to:

• Meet regularly with their assigned advisor
• Participate in workshops and program activities
• Maintain academic progress toward graduation
• Communicate proactively about academic or personal challenges

Our partnership is built on mutual commitment and accountability.

Application Process

How to Apply

1. Complete the TRIO SSS online application.
2. Submit required documentation (if applicable).
3. Participate in an intake meeting.

What to Expect During Your Intake Meeting

• Review of your academic goals
• Discussion of challenges and support needs
• Introduction to TRIO services
• Creation of a personalized success plan

Spots are limited, and participation is selective based on federal guidelines and demonstrated need.

Apply Today and Take the Next Step Toward Success.

The TRIO Student Support Services Program at Spalding University is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is TRIO SSS free?

Yes. TRIO SSS is federally funded and completely free to eligible students.

Does joining TRIO SSS affect my financial aid?

No. Participation does not reduce your financial aid package.

Can I leave the program?

Participation is voluntary; however, students are encouraged to remain active to receive full benefits.

How long can I stay in TRIO SSS?

Students may participate in TRIO SSS for the duration of their undergraduate enrollment at Spalding University, as long as they remain eligible and actively engaged in the program.

What does “first-generation college student” mean?

A first-generation student is someone whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) did not earn a bachelor’s degree.

What does “income-eligible” mean?

Income eligibility is determined based on federal TRIO guidelines and household income information. Documentation may be required during the application process.

Do I have to attend meetings?

Yes. Students are expected to meet regularly with their assigned TRIO advisor and participate in workshops and program activities. These meetings are designed to support your academic and personal success.

What if I am struggling academically?

TRIO SSS provides early intervention support, academic recovery planning, tutoring referrals, study strategies, and consistent advising to help you get back on track.

Can TRIO SSS help me prepare for graduate school?

Yes. TRIO SSS offers:

• Graduate school exploration
• Application guidance
• Personal statement review
• Financial planning for graduate education
• GRE/entrance exam resource referrals

Does TRIO SSS offer tutoring?

TRIO SSS provides tutoring referrals and academic support resources. We work closely with campus academic support services to connect students with the help they need.

Is participation mandatory once accepted?

Participation is voluntary; however, students are expected to remain actively engaged to receive the full benefits of the program.

Can transfer students apply?

Yes. Transfer students who meet eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply.

Can part-time students participate?

Part-time students may be eligible depending on funding guidelines and academic need. We encourage interested students to apply and speak with a TRIO advisor.

Is there a limit to how many students can join?

Yes.  Our TRIO SSS is funded for 140 students.

Will my information remain confidential?

Yes. Student information is kept confidential and used only for program and federal reporting purposes in compliance with university and federal regulations.

How is TRIO SSS different from academic advising?

While academic advising is available to all students at Spalding University, TRIO SSS provides more personalized, intensive, and ongoing support, including financial literacy, career development, and holistic success coaching.

What if I’m not sure I qualify?

We encourage you to apply. Our team will review your application and help determine eligibility.