About
TRIO programs were established by the U.S. Department of Education and began with only three (hence the name "TRIO") programs over 50 years ago. The Student Support Services programs were established in 1968. Today, there are 8 types of TRIO programs, including SSS, Educational Talent Search, Upward Bound, Ronald McNair Programs, and Equal Opportunity Centers. All TRIO programs have the same goals: to make a college education more attainable to those eligible and to increase the likelihood of a student's success of completing their college education.
As of 2020, there are over 1000 SSS programs around the country supporting 200,000+ students every year!
Who participates?
Each year the SSS program serves at least 160 qualified students and the STEM-HS program serves at least 120 qualified students, in accordance with the U.S. Department of Education's guidelines. All participants must meet the qualifying criteria of either being first generation, low income, and/or having a documented physical or learning disability.
Students with disabilities should contact Student Disability and Accessibility Center (SDAC) for disability verification and accommodation services, and to determine how SDR and SSS can best serve you.
Program goals
The goals of the program are to assist students to achieve their maximum academic potential, experience social and cultural activities, and assist students in creating a "plan" for their futures after graduating from CSUMB. SSS participants will create a sense of community to encourage and motivate each other along the way on their journey towards graduation and their professional careers.