TRIO Student Services
Providing support to underserved populations
Participants have higher GPAs and are more likely to graduate than eligible non-participants
TRIO Student Support Services is a federally funded program designed to provide academic support, cultural activities and personal development programming to traditionally underserved populations that often face barriers in higher education: first generation, low income and differently abled students.
Program Purpose
TRIO programs were originally established by the federal government in 1965 to ensure equal educational opportunity for all Americans, regardless of race, ethnic background or economic circumstances, and Simpson College introduced SSS to campus in 2005.
Today, participants earn opportunities for academic, personal and professional development, as well as financial support. Together, we empower each other to successfully complete baccalaureate degrees and grow our connections through mutual empathy and curiosity.
Simpson First Generation Students
TRIO SSS Benefits
You’ll access a unique culture and community dedicated to your success and creating pathways for students like you in the future. Among the many tangible benefits you’ll receive:
- One-on-one advising from SSS staff
- Priority registration
- Free 24/7 online live tutoring and writing assistance
- Social opportunities and the chance to meet new people
- CampusConnect: a selective summer program for incoming first-year students
- Skill-building workshops
- Financial literacy education
- Scholarships for first-and second-year students who are Pell Grant eligible and meet participation criteria
- Leadership opportunities
- Peer Mentoring
- Professional networking and mentoring
- Free school supplies provided with academic skills workshops
TRIO SSS Eligibility
Eligibility is determined by federal regulations. To qualify, a student must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Be a first-generation college student (neither parent has a bachelor’s degree)
- Meet TRIO income guidelines (most students who qualify for Pell Grant also meet the TRIO low-income guidelines)
- Have a documented disability
Application Details
Complete an SSS application and mail to Student Support Services, 701 North C St., Indianola, IA 50125. Email questions to SSS Director Stephanie Neve at stephanie.neve@simpson.edu.
