WORCESTER, MA — A local college opened a newly renovated space aimed at helping more students navigate college and prepare for their next steps.
Quinsigamond Community College unveiled the expanded home of its TRIO Student Support Services during a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, the school announced on Thursday. The federally funded program serves first-generation college students, students who meet income eligibility requirements and students with documented disabilities.
QCC also received funding for a TRIO STEM-Health Sciences program that will serve eligible health sciences students.
"The ultimate goal is to get students to persist, graduate and continue their education," TRIO Programs Project Director Peter Munene said. "I was a first-generation college student. I feel like if I had found a program like this in college, it would have been a game-changer for me."
TRIO participants receive support throughout their time at QCC, including help registering for classes and accessing Career Services, Financial Aid, Parenting Student Services and the college's HomePlate Food Pantry & Resource Center. Education specialists will also provide tutoring and workshops while academic counselors will offer individualized guidance and connections to other services.
The renovated space gives students a place to study, meet with peers and receive support. The program also organizes visits to colleges and universities so students can explore opportunities after QCC.
Student Juliana Rosas said TRIO helped her form connections at QCC and prepare for the exams required for admission to a health care program. She now assists other TRIO students through a work-study position.
"You don't just get thrown in the deep end to figure things out by yourself," Rosas said. "TRIO helps from the beginning to the end. They are really compassionate."
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