Trio Student Services Support is a program located at Houston Community College-Central Campus. The program provides academic support for first generation, low income students who are enrolled at HCC Central, working toward an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree, have less than 30 credits, or have a disability, and plan on transferring to a four-year university.

Some of the many services Trio SSS offers are personal and academic counseling, advice on choosing a degree plan, one-on-one tutoring sessions, a computer lab, field trips, supplemental grants, seminars, workshops and scholarship opportunities. Trio prepares and assists students with transferring to a four-year college or university upon graduation. They also host social events such as festivals, parties, plays and picnics.

College life is sometimes stressful enough to cause one to consider giving up. Whether it is a difficult time adjusting to school, a heavy study load, or home life and other activities combined with classes and studying, it is not uncommon to feel weighed down by the pressure that comes with these responsibilities. With their open-door policy and welcoming atmosphere, Trio staff facilitates members in devising a strategy to help alleviate the tension, continue their education, and obtain their degree.

Not only do students receive educational and financial benefits when they become a member of Trio, but they receive personal benefits as well.

Colleges and universities may extend invitations to join various organizations, but this doesn’t mean they can offer you the accommodations or the assistance that you require. While each individual has different wants and needs, a stable learning environment and encouraging support systems are things that are important for students to have to ensure their success in completing their education and accomplishing their goals.

The director of Trio SSS, Dr. LaTonya Jones, says “Trio is a one-stop shop program that has been a vital part of student services at Central College for the last 28 years. The academic support and individual attention that we give to each student—along with their hard work and dedication to their academic goals—are what have made this program work so well over the years and continue to do so.”

The Student Support Services office is in the Learning Hub Science Building (LHSB) in rm. 206. It is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Students can fill out an application and make an appointment for an interview to find out if they are eligible to become a member of the Trio family. You will also receive information on how to become a member and volunteer for College Peer Corps. The opportunities are endless with the combination of these two powerful educational organizations. Trio SSS membership and all activities are free of charge.