Your Path to Success

Designed to help you thrive, our TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program offers resources and personalized support to help you achieve your academic and career goals. 

What is TRIO SSS?

TRIO SSS is a federally funded program designed to empower students as they pursue their college degree and transition to college. Since 2010, ECC has been a proud recipient of a TRIO grant. TRIO SSS helps inspire and support students in their pursuit of a degree. On average, students who participate in TRIO SSS are more likely to graduate on time and with a higher GPA than eligible students who don’t join the program. 

TRIO SSS provides support and services to help students achieve and complete their degree and transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a Bachelor’s Degree. 

When you join TRIO SSS you will have these FREE support services available to you:

  • Workshops: Attend topic-specific workshops to enhance your skills.
  • Scholarship and Financial Support: Explore scholarship opportunities and receive financial support if you qualify.
  • Personalized Advising: Get one-on-one advising, including help with registration and scheduling, from dedicated SSS staff.
  • Transfer Counseling: Receive guidance for transferring to a four-year university.
  • University Visits: Take trips to state universities like Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa.
  • Exclusive Courses: Access college credit courses designed exclusively for TRIO SSS participants. Also benefit from early registration for courses.

Being part of TRIO SSS means you'll gain:

  • Dedicated Support: Receive one-on-one advising from TRIO SSS staff who are personally committed to helping you succeed.
  • Community and Connections: Meet and build relationships with other students who share similar college and career aspirations through TRIO SSS social activities.
  • Financial Smarts: Learn to budget your money now and in the future, understand credit card use, and manage student loan debt.
  • Leadership Skills: Develop valuable leadership skills that will benefit you in college and in your future career.
    Personal "Cheerleader": Get academic and personal encouragement from your very own dedicated SSS advisor.

Eligibility for TRIO SSS is based on federal regulations. To qualify, you must be a full-time MCC student, a U.S. Citizen, or a Permanent Resident, and meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • You are a first-generation college student (neither parent has a four-year bachelor’s degree).
  • You have a documented disability.
  • You demonstrate financial need (for example, did you qualify for a Pell grant?).

Apply for TRIO Today! Here’s How to Join

Spaces in this federally funded program are limited, so don’t wait, apply today!

Complete the TRIO Application Form for the current year.

Molly Hippen
Director of Student Success & Learning Services
 Molly.Hippen@iavalley.edu
  641-648-8511

Kim Brinkmeyer
Student Support Specialist
 Kim.Brinkmeyer@iavalley.edu
  641-648-8581

Shonda Tranel
TRIO Coordinator
 Shonda.Tranel@iavalley.edu

Jodi Hamilton
TRIO Coordinator
 Jodi.Hamilton@iavalley.edu