For nearly ten years, the TRIO Student Support Services program at FSC has been proud to assist first-generation college students, students from low-income backgrounds, and those with disabilities at FSC. We aim to empower our participants to not simply survive in college, but to thrive.

In response, our student-driven TRIO Leadership Council spearheaded many of our recent program innovations. We now have "Breakout Thursday" virtual hangouts where students gather to discuss a range of topics from self-care to favorite foods. A new Instagram page features a "Motivational Monday" campaign that highlights a TRIO student every week who is going above and beyond.

These initiatives were conducted in addition to the virtual counseling and tutoring appointments coordinated by TRIO staff. Our entire team is viewing this period of uncertainty as an opportunity to enhance services. We realize that it takes courage to step into the unknown and embrace change. Star TRIO student, Rose Saint Charles, said it best: "Being brave is not being unafraid but feeling the fear and doing it anyway. Being a hero isn't about winning but about seeing a difficult challenge in front of you and yet you embrace it." We completely agree.

Looking ahead, we are enthusiastic to build upon the success of our inaugural TRIO Awards Ceremony that occurred on May 18 where we virtually recognized stellar program participation, academic success, and degree completion.

Learn how you can get involved. Visit https://www.farmingdale.edu/asap/trio/services.shtml.

"Being a hero isn't about winning, but about seeing a difficult challenge in front of you and yet you embrace it."
-Rose Saint Charles, TRIO Student