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Mission Statement
The mission of SSS is assuring that the least advantaged segments of students have a realistic chance to graduate from UTC. A secondary purpose of the project is to foster an institutional climate supportive of the success of program participants.
Vision Statement
An increase in the retention and graduation rates of UTC students who come from underrepresented backgrounds. SSS supports the following UTC guiding principles:
• We are committed to preparing educated men and women for meaningful and productive lives.
• We promote and celebrate the diversity of people and ideas.
• We embrace active and collaborative learning through partnerships among students, faculty, staff, and the community.
• We develop partnerships that strengthen the university and our community.
• We use technology to enhance teaching.
• We use our resources in a prudent manner to accomplish our mission.
• We use multiple measures to evaluate the performance of our students and programs.
Student Support Services
Eligibility for Services
Eligibility for services is considered if students are:
- Enrolled or accepted for enrollment at the University
- Citizens of the United States
- Meet federal Trio requirements
- First-generation (neither parent has a four year college degree)
- Individuals with disabilities
- In need academic support
In need of academic support is indicated by at least one of the following criteria:
- Enrolled in Developmental Studies
- High school GPA less than 2.5
- Minimum math or verbal score of 16 on the Enhanced ACT
- Minimum score of 620 on SAT
- College GPA less than 2.5
- Lack transition skills
- Lack appropriate technology skills
- Failing grades
- Pre-major or undeclared major
Confidentiality
Student Support Services is committed to ensuring that all information regarding a participant is maintained confidential, as required by the federal regulation law on "Family Educational Rights and Privacy (FERPA)."
Apply Now to be an SSS Participant
Program Services
Academic Advising - With the assistance of the program staff, you will develop short-term and long-term goals uniquely tailored to address individual needs. We also provide assistance with registering for classes. You are encouraged to meet with your primary academic advisor each semester before finalizing your schedule to ensure that it meets major requirements
Personal Counseling -the program staff is willing and eager to offer not only academic counseling, but also a friendly shoulder to lean on, should one of life's many obstacles get in the way of your academic success.
Career Counseling -helps you broaden your career awareness and explore realistic career choices.
Academic Monitoring -the SSS staff collects Pre-Midterm, Midterm, and final grade reports. Individual conferences are conducted with students making less than a “C”
Graduate and Professional School Assistance -provides campus visits, assistance with preparing for entrance exams and applications
Financial Counseling -monitors financial needs and provide direct and indirect assistance
Goal Setting -the SSS staff will assist you in developing a Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) which prescribes program services and activities to address academic deficiencies.
Socials- students are given free tickets to local and regional events; national TRIO Day in Atlanta, Georgia, Reading Day luncheons, etc. Student can hang out in the SSS Lounge which houses a 42” LCD TV and a phone. A refrigerator, microwave and sink is in close proximity to the lounge.
Computer Lab -is equipped with PC’s, laser printers, scanner, color printer, internet, e-mail, SPSS and Maple 10. Assistance with course work requiring general or specialized software is available. The Computer Lab is open during normal office hours and extended hours during peak periods.
S5 TRIO Club - provides an arena for participants to engage in activities that involve the practice of leadership and provide opportunities for students to participate in community service projects.
Financial Support
SSS financial support is to meet the following goals:
• Improve grades
• Reduce the number of hours students work
• Provide financial aid to low-income students with unmet financial need
• Incentives for students who actively use program services
• To assist students in making timely progress toward obtaining their degree
Financial Assistance Components
Grant Aid Awards – typically range from $500 to $4,000 per year
Book Loan Program -students checkout course textbooks for the semester
Technology Assistance Program -laptop computers, T-83 calculators, typewriter and a digital camera can be checked out. Students have access to laser printing, a scanner, and faxing.
Cultural Enrichment and Academic Events -are free and include Reading Day Luncheons, National TRIO Celebration Trip, plays, and graduate school visits.
Study Skills Enhancement Tools -highlighters, note cards, pencils, blue books, USB drives, assessments, planners, and course specific learning aids.
Part-time Employment -have paid positions for tutors, mentors, student assistants, and graduate advisors.
