TRiO programs benefit students Erin Toney Contributing writer Students walk by the Haskell Hall building daily

and see the red and white TRiO logo on the outside door, but many may not be familiar with the program. TRiO is a set of federally-funded college programs whose mission is to motivate and support students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. NSU currently has two of the TRiO programs at the Tahlequah campus, Student Support Services and Educational Talent Search. This program is beneficial to students because the services are free, said Lena Deere, TRiO director. Were here for our students to be successful, and to help them academically and personally. The program provides academic advising, financial aid counseling, assistance with graduate school admittance, personal support, one-on-one tutoring, financial literacy programs, computer training and social and cultural activities. It also has been one of the longest-running grant programs at NSU; it has been here for more than 20 years. I am a tutor for student support, and I know more that goes on, said Tyree Parker, Wagoner senior. Im aware of scholarships faster, and it is a great program to be in. Parker is a tutor for math, science, history and English and said he loves tutoring and helping other students. TRiO provides workshops and seminars at least once a month. Some of the events have included test-taking skills, career exploration, career choices, writing skills, note-taking techniques, financial aid money management and many more. TRiO recently presented an algebra workshop and will feature Jeff Walker and a Degree Auditing Reporting System workshop Feb. 27. However, the workshops and other assistance are for members only. To become a member, there are three criteria for participation. Students must be a first generation college student, meaning neither parent can have a bachelors degree. They must meet an income guideline or be a student with a disability. Only one criterion has to be met to become a member. TRiO also has cultural and educational events, some of which include visiting museums and theaters and traveling to see national and international exhibits and productions. They also are available for career planning and assessment. They can help discuss major and career options and have a wide variety of resources available, like the computer lab. The people working there are very helpful, said Kyra Hannah, Tahlequah senior and SSS tutor. They are very easy to talk to and very knowledgeable. They have helped me with class decision making and keeping me organized for my classes. Hannah said being a tutor for SSS is beneficial, too. It helps me stay sharp on my skills, particularly math, said Hannah. That is a skill that you either use it or lose it. I have tutored here for so long, I have earned the nickname Queen Tutor. TRiO Student Support traveled last year to the University of Arkansas to let members view their graduate program. This was my favorite trip to participate in, said Stacy Deere, Tahlequah junior. If it wasnt for being in student support, I wouldnt have got the opportunity.

Trips are not the only thing Stacy Deere likes about TRiO. She said they have helped her with tutoring, schedules and are there to talk to as well. TRiO programs have helped students academically and have increased the graduation rate by 175 program participants. We have former students and members come back and tell us they really appreciated what we did for them, said Lena Deere. TRiO Student Support and Educational Talent Search offices are just around the corner. They are located in the basement of Haskell Hall. Look for the red and white TRiO logo on the outside door. For more information about the program, stop by the office, call 918-444-3035 or email Lena Deere at deerlr@nsuok.edu.