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.


Persistence rate blue icon
97%
Persistence rate
Students in the program blue icon
140
Students in the program
89%
Student in Good Academic Standing

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 SizeMaximum 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. 

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