What is TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)?
Student Support Services (TRIO SSS) at CBC is a federally-funded grant that empowers first-generation, low income students and students with disabilities to seize opportunities and successfully navigate barriers in order to realize dreams and accomplish educational goals.
Are you looking for extra academic assistance and dedicated support both as you meet challenges here at CBC and also commit to transferring to a four-year institution? You have found the right program! TRIO SSS students find that the extra support they receive helps them achieve success not only here at CBC, but also in their four-year graduation goals and careers beyond college.
TRIO SSS Benefits
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Academic advising
Get help with scheduling classes and making an academic plan!
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Transfer planning
Discover where you want to end up after CBC, and make a plan to get there!
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Educational counseling
Something holding you back from your educational goals? TRIO SSS is here to help.
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Financial aid literacy counseling
Develop and monitor your financial aid plan and find the services and resources you need to get smart about college spending.
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Major and career planning
Identify potential interests and establish career goals with our help!
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Math and Science tutoring
Are you struggling in math and science? We’ve got you covered with intensive tutoring sessions!
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Campus visits
Experience four-year universities firsthand through a plethora of planned tours and workshops.
Are you eligible for TRIO SSS?
You are qualified to apply for TRIO SSS if you:
- Are a U.S. citizen or registered permanent resident.
- Have been accepted for enrollment or are currently enrolled at CBC.
- Are one or more of the following:
- Financially limited (according to federal guidelines).
- A first-generation college student (neither of your parents obtained a bachelor's degree).
- A person with a documented disability.
- Demonstrate academic need.
- Have a 2.2 or higher college-level GPA.
- Have earned a high school diploma or GED. (Running Start students are not eligible for the SSS TRIO program.)
- Are highly motivated to graduate and transfer to a four-year college or university.
- Test at the following levels in math, reading and writing skills:
- 50 or higher in math
- College-level reading
- English 99 or above
Interested in applying for TRIO SSS? Email us for more information or get started on your application today!
Meet the TRIO SSS team!
Araceli A. Suárez is a dedicated educator and advocate committed to empowering students from diverse backgrounds to achieve their academic goals. With a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education from Central Washington University.
In April 2024, Araceli transitioned to Columbia Basin College, where she serves as the Director for TRIO Student Support Services. As a first-generation graduate herself, Araceli believes in the transformative power of education and is committed to provide support to students to ensure their success.
With over two years of experience with TRIO Student Support Services at Heritage University, Araceli brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Prior to joining Columbia Basin College, she also contributed to programs such as the High School Equivalency Program, Dare to Dream Academy, and the College Assistance Migrant Program.
Araceli’s dedication to educational equity and her personal journey as a first-generation graduate inspire her to work everyday, driving her to make meaningful impacts in the lives of students and their communities.
Since 2002, I have had the honor of working in the TRIO SSS office at CBC. I feel very fortunate to be able to serve students in my role. I gratefully participated in the TRIO SSS program when I attended CBC and know firsthand the struggles first generation and low-income students face. The services we offer are so important! Being part of our excellent team and assisting our students with reaching their goals brings me great joy!
I am passionate about helping students achieve their highest potential whether it be passing a difficult course, obtaining a degree, or even starting a career. As a former CBC and TRIO student, I have witnessed Student Support Services provide helpful guidance and resources to students in need to help them succeed. I am proud to be apart of this program and ready to help guide students to brighter futures!
My CBC journey began in 2008 as a Running Start student. I didn't realize then how big of an impact this school would have on me. My two-year Hawk experience ultimately instilled in me the skills, confidence, and motivation to successfully transfer to a four-year university. I'm honored to return to CBC as the Program Assistant for TRIO Student Support Services. Student success is what we're passionate about, and as the newest addition to the team, I look forward to supporting CBC students as they navigate college and prepare to transfer to four-year universities, just as I did.
TRIO SSS at CBC serves approximately 200 students each year and is funded at 100% by the U.S. Department of Education (Award number P042A150574).
