Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re looking for an academic support system to perform at your best, or just want a personal college “safety net,” TRIO will work with you from freshman year through graduation. The program can help you build your strengths and address your areas of concern so that you get the most out of your time at Berry and beyond.
All TRIO services are free to the student!
Once you’re accepted into the program, we ask that you:
- Take an initial academic assessment and meet with our staff to discuss the results
- Participate in activities designed to help you set and reach your academic goals
- Engage in our financial literacy opportunities at least once a year.
Bottom line: we want TRIO to support you without becoming another thing on your already long to-do list.
This is up to you – it can take as little as one hour each month or several hours each week. You decide which services to utilize. Whether it’s a quick question about where to find something on campus, a long chat about how to decide on a major or a weekly check-in about a class that’s giving you trouble – we want you to decide how TRIO can best serve your goals.
Completing our application is the first step! We will have financial aid experts review your particular situation and let you know if you are eligible for grant aid of $1500 a year.
No. TRIO Student Support Services is a student success program focused on helping students succeed academically, prepare for their careers, and achieve their personal goals. While some TRIO participants may be eligible to receive grant aid through the program, grant aid is limited, awarded in accordance with federal TRIO guidelines, and is not guaranteed for all participants.
By federal definition, a student is considered first-generation if neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree. You may still be considered first-generation if:
- A parent attended college but did not earn a bachelor’s degree.
- A parent earned an associate degree or completed a trade school.
- An older sibling earned a bachelor’s degree.
Not at all! TRIO supports students at every stage of their college journey, whether they’re adjusting to college life, looking to strengthen their academic skills, or preparing for graduate or professional school. Our goal is to help every participant maximize their potential and make the most of their Berry experience.
No! Eligible students can join TRIO at any point during their time at Berry. Whether you’re a first-year student, transfer student, or upperclassman, TRIO is here to support you through graduation.
Absolutely! Many students participate in TRIO while balancing academics, athletics, and/or other campus commitments.
Complete the online TRIO Student Support Services application. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and our staff will review your eligibility and contact you with the next steps. If you have questions before applying, we’d be happy to help!