TRIO Programs
Morris College administers federal TRIO programs, which promote social mobility and academic equity.
At Morris College, the federal TRIO programs serve as a vital engine for social mobility and academic equity. While many associate TRIO solely with on-campus support, the college’s expansive TRIO footprint begins in the community and extends into the collegiate journey, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds—particularly first-generation students and those from low-income families—have a clear, supported path to a baccalaureate degree.
Upward Bound: The Pre-College Pipeline
The Upward Bound program at Morris College is designed to bridge the gap between secondary and post-secondary education for local high school students. It includes an academic year component, a summer residential experience, and a bridge component.
Holistic Support and Cultural Enrichment
Beyond the classroom, TRIO programs at Morris are dedicated to the social and cultural development of participants, recognizing that success requires more than just academic ability.
- Exposure and Mentorship: Students are provided with visits to various post-secondary institutions and professional workplaces, expanding their vision of what is possible for their futures.
- Standardized Test & Application Assistance: The programs remove the hidden “cost barriers” of college entry by providing SAT/ACT preparation, fee waivers, and hands-on assistance with FAFSA and college admission applications.
- The Lyceum & Field Trips: Cultural enrichment trips to museums, theaters, and historical sites are a regular feature, ensuring that students from all socioeconomic backgrounds have access to the fine arts and a broader global perspective.
Strategic Impact on Diverse Populations
By focusing on students who would be the first in their families to attend college, the Morris College TRIO programs address specific systemic challenges.
| Program Focus | Impact on Student Success |
| Financial Literacy | Workshops on budgeting and financial aid ensure students and families can manage the costs of a degree. |
| Career Counseling | Early exposure to career paths helps students choose majors that align with their strengths and market demands. |
| Self-Esteem Building | Mentoring and leadership opportunities instill the confidence necessary to overcome academic and social obstacles. |
Student Support Services
Student Support Services is a federally funded Title IV program established to assist first-generation, low-income students and students with disabilities.
Upward Bound
Upward Bound bridges the gap between secondary and post-secondary education for local high school students.