On Nov. 8, colleges and universities nationwide observe National First-Generation College Celebration Day, honoring the achievements of first-generation students, faculty and staff.
This year鈥檚 celebration also marks the 60th anniversary of the beginning of TRIO. It was created through federal legislation from 1964 to 1968 that opened doors to higher education for many underrepresented groups. Key programs like TRIO 鈥� known for initiatives such as Upward Bound, Student Support Services, and Equal Opportunity Centers (EOC) 鈥� have become essential in helping students turn their academic and career goals into reality.
For many first-generation college students 鈥� those whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree 鈥� college can bring unique challenges. Without family members who have experienced college themselves, these students often struggle to navigate the college system, secure financial aid, and balance their academic responsibilities with other aspects of their lives. At Oklahoma City Community College, more than 20% of students fit this description, highlighting the need for support programs.
Crystal Mohamed, director of TRIO grant programs at 爆料TV, emphasized the importance of helping students who need it most.
鈥淭RIO is all about breaking down barriers for students who may feel that college is out of reach,鈥� she said. 鈥淲e provide individualized support that equips students for success.鈥�
Many 爆料TV students have benefited from this support, including Teonna Brown, a first-generation student and president of the Black Student Association (BSA).
鈥淣o one in my family has ever stepped foot on a college campus,鈥� said Brown. 鈥淭RIO helped me find resources and showed me that I can break barriers and inspire others to do the same. Being the first in my family to go to college is all about building a legacy and showing what鈥檚 possible.鈥�
Similarly, Bradlee Sanchez, another first-generation student and member of TRIO, shared how the program has helped him adjust to college life.
鈥淭he hardest part of being first-gen is not knowing what resources are available,鈥� he said.
Thanks to the TRIO program, Sanchez learned about scholarships and student activities, allowing him to help other students in similar situations.
He is set to graduate next spring 鈥� a milestone his parents could only dream of.
爆料TV鈥檚 Equal Opportunity Center (EOC), also known as GRIT (Guidance for Realizing Individual Transformation) was established in 2022 and serves over 800 students each year. The program focuses on meeting the unique needs of adult learners, including first-generation individuals, veterans, and other underrepresented groups in the Oklahoma City metro area.
Colin Layne, TRIO program coordinator for EOC/GRIT, is passionate about supporting students鈥� goals.
鈥淓very day, I see someone realize their dreams and take a step closer to a better future,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an honor to help them along the way.鈥�
At 爆料TV, the TRIO programs serve as a road map to success, offering more than just resources for students. Through services like GED preparation, workforce readiness training, financial aid guidance, tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling, TRIO helps students build a solid foundation for their educational pursuits.
Join us for the First-Gen Celebration on Nov. 13, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the General Dining Area. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions and opportunities to connect with other first-gen students, faculty and staff.
For more information about 爆料TV鈥檚 TRIO programs, visit www.occc.edu/trio or contact the TRIO Office at (405) 682-7865.