University of Idaho | Educational Opportunity Center

Before finding TRIO, I had an 11th-grade education, was in an abusive relationship, and lacked work experience. I battled this situation for years, but was never able to create stability, which led to my daughter and I becoming homeless. Desperation led to compromised decision-making, which ultimately led to a felony conviction and incarceration in Idaho at South Boise Women’s Correctional Center.

During my time at SBWCC, I was introduced to TRIO through a pre-release course. They made a Zoom appointment with a TRIO advisor and we were able to create a plan of action for furthering my education upon release. They found colleges nearby, we explored my career interests, and planned next steps. Before the meeting ended, my advisor gave me a step-by-step plan to follow as soon as I was released, and for the first time as an adult, I had a future.

After my release, I made an appointment with my advisor and she walked me through the FAFSA, the college application, the admissions process, and created a plan for the upcoming term. TRIO provided the understanding and support that I had previously lacked. I am now in my second year at Linn Benton Community College as a Communications major on track for an Associate’s degree in winter 2025 and will transfer to Oregon State University for a Bachelor’s.

These events set in motion by TRIO Educational Opportunity Center have substantially changed my self-esteem, my self-worth, my family dynamic, and have given me an amazing way to support myself. I have never had a more positive life-changing experience with an organization. My gratitude is endless, thank you for this opportunity to express it.

Boise State University | McNair Scholars Program

I began college a non-traditional, first-generation, low-income student, who was juggling the responsibilities of motherhood while working full time. Navigating college was challenging but the support I received from mentors along the way was pivotal to my personal and professional trajectory. I was first introduced to the McNair Scholar’s Program through a professor. I vividly recall sitting in her office with a slew of questions when she encouraged me to consider continuing my education to pursue a Ph.D., a term unfamiliar to me at the time. She provided me with a link to the McNair Scholars Program and assured me they would offer all the guidance needed throughout the process.

Over the next two years, the McNair Scholars Program not only introduced me to the world of research but also played a crucial role in developing my identity as a scholar. They provided a myriad of academic and professional development opportunities and encouraged me to think ambitiously about my future. What sets the McNair Scholars Program apart is their unwavering support of their students. Despite serving first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students, the program staff never viewed these identities as hindrances to our future success or potential. Instead, they fostered a sense of belonging and purpose in their scholars by believing that each of their students’ unique perspectives of the world and science was just as valuable as any other. Before long, we believed it too.

Upon earning my Bachelor’s degree, I pursued graduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park and earned a Ph.D. in Sociology. Now, as an educator and researcher, I support a new generation of both Sociology and McNair Scholars at my alma mater. As I guide and mentor my students, I am reminded of the program’s enduring impact and its ability to open doors to possibilities that might otherwise remain unseen.

Idaho State University | Student Support Services

My journey in education began with the invaluable gift of a love for learning, instilled by my parents, who immigrated from Mexico to the United States with a dream to provide their children the opportunities they never had. Growing up, I observed my parents’ struggles and sacrifices, inspiring me to cherish education as a means of empowerment. My journey with TRIO began with my husband, Aaron. Aaron had been a part of TRIO Upward Bound since his freshman year of high school. He loved the program so much that he quickly dragged me to the TRIO office to join Student Support Services (SSS).

As a first-generation student in a new environment, I didn’t need much support during high school, but my first few semesters in college were challenging. I struggled to pass classes and was missing important skills. TRIO SSS was the one to bridge those gaps for me. They helped me fill out the FAFSA, provided tutors, and provided a safe place to study. As a freshman, TRIO taught me how to study and advocate for myself, but the most essential thing TRIO has done for me was they were my support system. I spent so much time in that office discussing my hopes and dreams and how to reach them, but the support didn’t end. Four years after I graduated, when I felt stuck in my job and needed to figure out what to do next, the first person I went to was my TRIO advisor, who again took the time to meet and talk it out. With the support and knowledge from TRIO, I just received my Master’s in Education in December 2023. I will also be continuing my education journey at the University of Georgia, where I will be studying Learning Design and Technology as a fully funded Ph.D. student. I honestly believe I wouldn’t have made it this far without the support of TRIO.

Boise State University | Veterans Upward Bound

I served in the US Navy as a Corpsman for nearly six years with assignments in Washington, California, and Japan. I’ve been working in some form of healthcare services since I was fifteen years old, and knew I wanted to stay in that line of work. From my experience working in Naval hospitals and clinics, I knew I wanted to focus on pediatrics or labor and delivery. After I separated from the Navy, my husband and I moved to Idaho, but I didn’t know where to begin my journey to become a nurse. While attending the Women’s Veterans of Idaho Conference, I met the Education Coordinator from Veterans Upward Bound at Boise State University who helped start me on my path.

I was nervous to restart college based on my first experience eight years ago, but the VUB team helped me navigate the system and introduced me to on-campus resources at Boise State University. They gave me a tour of the campus, showed me where my classrooms would be, and introduced me to the Veterans Services Center where I got help with my GI Bill educational benefits. I also really benefited by working with the math and science tutors at VUB. They did a great job helping me to refresh my skills, fill in the gaps, and were thorough and patient in explaining new concepts. Thanks to TRIO and VUB, I’m off to a great start to my college career. I even made the Dean’s List my first semester here!

Idaho State University | Upward Bound Math-Science

I have been a part of TRIO since my freshman year of high school in 2020. My first year in TRIO was during the covid lockdown and there were limitations on the ways that I was able to participate. Once we were out of lockdown and I was able to start fully participating in TRIO, I gained a lot of different, important experiences. One of the earliest TRIO memories I have was a trip to Arizona to visit Dixie Technical College and Northern Arizona University. This experience allowed me see schools that are vastly different from the ones offered nearby. It also allowed me to experience a great trip to the Grand Canyon. Another great trip that changed my life was to Butte, Montana to see Montana Technological University. This was my favorite of the many college tours that we went on, and it led to me to apply to Montana Tech.

TRIO allowed me to tour many colleges, learn about different career opportunities, and explore degree options. Through TRIO, I connected with a college recruitment advisor who helped me decide to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

One of the best experiences that I had through TRIO was the opportunity to participate in the SEED program at Idaho State University. I had the opportunity to assist in the ISU chemistry department on a research project with a graduate student and a professor. Without my TRIO advisor informing me about this
opportunity, I would not have known to apply for the program. TRIO provided me many different opportunities throughout my high school career and I am excited to graduate and start my college journey.

University of Idaho | Upward Bound

I got the opportunity to participate in the Upward Bound program for my last two years of high school. I got to learn about the process of going to college and the different routes I could take after I graduated high school. I always knew I wanted to attend college, but I wasn’t sure what the process looked like or how I would afford it.

In the summer of 2019, before my senior year of high school, Upward Bound took us to stay at the University of Idaho. We took classes for two weeks and then went on a trip to Washington, D.C., all at no cost to us. Staying on a college campus was a new experience for me, and it showed me that I did want to
attend college. The trip to Washington, D.C. was simply amazing and something I will never forget. We not only got to go to all the museums, but we also got to tour several universities. My experience in the program expanded my idea of who I am and what I could accomplish.

I’m now a senior at the University of Idaho, and I’m going to earn my Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education in the spring. I’m also the current President of my sorority, Delta Zeta. Once I graduate, I will be a high school English teacher. When I think about how I got here, I think of Upward Bound. They showed me the University of Idaho and helped me with networking skills, which allowed me to find a feeling of home on this campus. I will be forever grateful for my experience in Upward Bound, and I know they reach many more lives than just mine, showing young people what they can be capable of.

University of Idaho | Educational Talent Search 

TRIO helped me gain the confidence that college was a possibility for me. When I started high school in 2019, I was thinking heavily about my future plans after graduation. I contemplated my options and looked into jobs available in my community. A lot of the jobs were agricultural and factory jobs, but I did not see myself doing that as a long term career. So I decided to look into colleges. During my senior year, I went to an event called the Vandal Challenge hosted by the University of Idaho, which opened my eyes to the possibility of attending a 4-year institution.

At the time, I was confused and wanted to know more about college and scholarships. So, I walked into my counseling office and met this amazing TRIO advisor named Jaime. Jaime helped me with every question I had, whether it was about colleges, FAFSA, applying for scholarships, or applying for the CAMP Program. My TRIO advisor made themselves available to answer any questions I had, even when it was a day that they were not at my high school. Jaime was also there for me in my personal life when I had self doubt about moving away for college and being away from my family.

TRIO has been life changing for me and my future. I cannot stress enough how much TRIO has helped me with gaining the confidence I needed in my academic journey and helping me shake off the jitters of starting college and being away from my family. As of Fall 2023, I am a proud Vandal at the University of Idaho. Thank you, TRIO! Your work is amazing. TRIO Works!

Check out the digital 2023 summer yearbook put together by the students and staff of Idaho State University’s Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math-Science Programs!

View digital yearbook here

During the Exploration class of the Boise State TRIO Upward Bound Summer Program, students put together a yearbook to capture their amazing experiences. This is the final product of the student driven project. Seven students took charge of taking and selecting photos of the many summer events, creating the overall design, and exercised their graphic art skills as they built each individual page of the yearbook. Yearbooks created help to celebrate the learning, the fun, and the friendships of each TRIO UB Summer Program, and continue to keep memories alive for years to come.

Check out the Boise State Upward Bound 2022 Digital Yearbook here! 

University of Idaho | Upward Bound Math-Science

TRIO has been an inspiration since the day I joined as a sophomore in high school. It started to prepare me for college, but it turned into something so much more than that. During my time in the program, I have learned about careers and STEM opportunities that would have never been available to me. I had the privilege of going to the Women in Engineering event that gave me a unique perspective on the engineering world. I also was accepted to many exceptional college institutes because of their fantastic encouragement. However, the most incredible part of my experience was the Rover Observation And Drone Survey (ROADS) on Mars challenge. As the team leader, I became more confident and motivated to go above and beyond the ordinary. It was because of their guidance, advice, and selflessness that we were successful. As a result, our team scored in the top four teams in the entire country and a story in our local newspaper. This program has given me a great stepping stone into science and leadership. I can finally discover my dream of going to NASA and creating a career I know I can be proud of. I owe TRIO a deep, sincere thank you for everything they have done for the other organization members and me. They have truly changed my life.

Read the Lewiston Tribune article about Jaime’s experience with the ROADS Challenge

University of Idaho | Upward Bound Math-Science

When I moved to the mainland from Guam, one word that I knew, but perhaps didn’t truly understand, was the word “Opportunity.” However, I found that opportunity remained ambiguous despite finding myself in a location where possibility should have been abundant everywhere.

It was not until ninth grade that I found a means to achieve my goal of attending college. STEM Upward Bound visited my local junior high and urged students to apply on the behalf of their future benefit. I wasn’t entirely certain what the program entailed, but reluctantly, I applied anyway.

In doing so, I gained more than I could have possibly imagined. Of all the advantages, my favorite is career exploration. While participating in STEM Upward Bound, I have managed to inspect various scientific disciplines and develop those that interest me most. Specifically, I was allowed to attend a drone conference and undergo a brief online course on Virtual Reality and Computer Programming. With these experiences, I have solidified my desire to pursue higher education in Computer Science and will be exploring multiple outlets at the collegiate level in the coming fall.

Through the program, I have come to not only know, but fully experience the epitome of “opportunity” that otherwise would not have been obtainable. I can rest assured that my future lies in stability and promise.

Boise State University | Teacher Preparation Program

As a first generation college student, I showed up at the threshold of the TRIO Teacher Prep SSS Program as an overwhelmed and anxious freshman with four years of the unknown hanging over my head. Over the past three years, this program has helped me in countless ways. When I was first introduced to my TRIO advisor, Josh Baros, he helped me sort through my degree tracker and got me on the path to graduate in four years. He helps me each time I register for a new term and has made sure that I got into each of the classes that I wanted.

When the time came for me to apply to my Teacher Education Program, Josh guided me through the mess of tests, interview questions, and essays. Before I took my PRAXIS Core, TRIO helped me get passing scores by purchasing study materials and practice tests, which I wouldn’t have been able to afford for all five of the PRAXIS tests. I am so thankful that TRIO had the means to pay for my study materials! I am happy to say that I am now accepted into my student teaching year during my last year at Boise State. I could not have done it without the help that I have received from Josh and TRIO.

If I didn’t have my TRIO advisor I would be LOST! I also wouldn’t have my current job. Josh helped me with my application, resume, and cover letter for the position. Each time that I have a question or concern, I turn to Josh and he helps me find the right answers.

TRIO Teacher Prep has been an amazing program to be a part of during my time at Boise State. I can honestly say that I would not be the same student without their support, guidance, and friendship.

University of Idaho | Education Opportunity Center

I graduated from high school in 1978 in San Diego, California. As a child I remember education, and learning in general, was always an important thing in our household, where it was emphasized to try your hardest and do your best.

I eventually enrolled in college but unfortunately had to drop out in 1984 due to an illness with my father, who was my driving force to do well in school and earn a degree. While I wanted to return to college, as it tends to happen, life happened, and the longer I was out of school the harder it was to go back on my own.

It wasn’t until 2019 that I reached out to TRIO Educational Opportunity Center for assistance in going back to school. EOC has guided me through the whole process of getting back in school, and without their help, I would not be here today attending Boise State University. They have been a great source of helpful information and motivation as I navigate this process and adjust to college.

It has meant the world to me to continue with what I didn’t complete when I was younger, and I will continue to strive in that direction. With TRIO’s help and support, I know I can make this happen. It is my dream to earn my bachelor’s degree, and I am proof that even at my age and almost 40 years after starting, you can still make these dreams happen.

Boise State University | Veterans Upward Bound

I served in the U.S. Navy from 2010 to 2019 before deciding to pursue a different path in the business world. I am now a current Business student at Boise State and will be earning a Bachelor’s of Business Administration so that I can focus on my goal of becoming a successful Project Manager.

Before the start of my first semester, I was contacted by Anita Lasher from VUB. She set up a time for me to come into the VUB office and meet with Frances Knight, the Education Coordinator. Frances set me up with Margaret Norris who is the mathematics instructor. Frances, Margaret, Anita, and the VUB Staff, have been crucial in my success at Boise State. They have taught me essential study skills, how to create a college schedule, and where to go for resources. I have been so grateful for the opportunity that VUB has given me. Before VUB, the last time I was enrolled in a Mathematics course was 2008. Needless to say, I had a significant gap in my education that needed to be filled prior to the start of college; which is something that is really not discussed in military to civilian transitioning classes.

Had I not accepted their help, I don’t think I would have had as much success here at Boise State. VUB’s devotion to their students exemplifies the higher education experience I feel all veterans should have. Making the transition from Military to Civilian is not an easy task but, the staff has truly stepped up in helping veterans prosper in higher education. I would highly recommend that all higher education institutions have programs similar to VUB as this could be a factor in whether or not veterans attend or even complete their higher educational goals.

Idaho State University | Educational Talent Search

Narcisse Mubibya was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in a little city called Goma. In the short time of being his TRIO advisor, I was privileged to get to know Narcisse and his background. A couple years after he was born, there was a fight between two small tribes. His father represented the winning tribe, which only brought misfortune to their family. The opposing side wanted vengeance, so they hunted his entire family. Luckily, his mom found a way to escape with him, his oldest siblings, and two family members. He was only a child at the time. When they finally escaped; running and walking for hours, they made it to the border of Uganda. Eventually their paths landed them in Kampala, where Narcisse grew up.

In Africa, Narcisse had never attended a day of schooling, but instead was put to work to help provide for his family of nine. By luck, his family received traveling documents to fly to the United States in 2016, which was truly life changing. Narcisse was sixteen and was offered work at a restaurant, but he decided to attend school and get an education. With minor knowledge of English and no background in education, he was told that his only option was to start in high school. Luckily, he was a fast learner. At almost 21, he graduated high school from Canyon Ridge High School and is now attending the University of Idaho, focusing on agriculture. He was honored to be one of the recipients of the Chobani Scholarship that helped pave his way to a full-ride. Narcisse’s dedication is an inspiration to us all.

North Idaho College | TRIO Student Support Services

My name is Kem, and had it not been for the TRIO Student Support Services program at North Idaho College I would not have continued my education. I came to college after a 34 year absence from school with only an 8th grade education. I felt like I didn’t deserve an education because I had been in prison. As if all of these things didn’t present enough challenges for me, one week before my first semester at NIC I lost my husband to suicide. Eight months later, I needed to be my mom’s strength as she lost her battle to cancer.

Joining TRIO was like joining an extended family. We bonded by participating in many different events, studying together, and campus clubs activities. My advisor walked me through the terrible pain of my personal losses and helped me cope with my feelings of disconnect from family and my feelings of not being deserving an education. She inspired me to move forward and encouraged me to volunteer in events and clubs to strengthen my networking skills and build friendships. She never judged me; only encouraged me. She became my strength when I had none, and spoke hope when I didn’t see it. I want others to know that TRIO students are capable of being overcomers and getting beyond our fear and challenges. I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work May, 2018. My passion is to work with the elderly population. Because of the skills I received through participation in TRIO, I have a new outlook on life. I can see my career path and believe that I can accomplish whatever goals I set for myself.

Boise State University | TRIO Rising Scholars Program

When I came into college, TRIO Rising Scholars welcomed and guided me. I was given a community, an advisor, and a mentor. When I was stressed or confused about where I was heading, I knew I could lean on TRIO Rising Scholars for support. I remember not understanding where I belonged in academia. TRIO Rising Scholars helped me find myself by organizing insightful workshops and by taking me to a research conference at the University of Washington. Since that time, my passion for research has blossomed and I know who I want to become. This past October, I found out about a paleoclimate research opportunity in France. I turned to my advisor for guidance and he went above and beyond. He wrote me an impactful letter of recommendation and critiqued my statement of research interest. I found out yesterday that I was admitted into the program! I will be able to go to France, at no cost, and study sediments of the Paleozoic era for four weeks. I am so glad that I am a member of TRIO Rising Scholars. I would not have the opportunities or experiences that I have today if it weren’t for this program. I am excited for the future and look forward to sharing more moments of success and happiness with the my TRIO community.

Idaho State University | TRIO Upward Bound Program

My time in Upward Bound has been life changing, it gave me a chance to get a jump start on my future that I never thought was possible. I am currently enrolled at ISU and am thankful to Upward Bound for helping me make my decision for post-secondary education clear. This program is now a part of me and has completely changed my life forever. I decided to give back to the program and work as a tutor/mentor during the summers. Knowing that I am helping over hundreds of students is a phenomenal feeling. I hope to one day change to life of an Upward Bound student just as Upward Bound and its staff has changed mine.

North Idaho College | Student Support Services Program

My name is Shanna, I’m living proof that TRIO works!! As a young mother, I found myself in living in an abusive marriage fueled by alcohol and drugs. I had no resources to get out and I felt trapped. To make matters worse, I lost everything I owned in a fire and found myself homeless with 2 kids. I relocated to Idaho, and was given the opportunity to re-invent myself with my parents’ support. I decided to pursue a college education because getting a degree was the one thing I knew could never be lost, destroyed or taken away from me.

It had been 20+ years since I had been out of school – I was scared to death! I wondered if I would fit in and if I could handle the work load. Despite my anxieties, I enrolled at North Idaho College and soon found out that times had changed – the traditional idea of college as I knew it was all available on a computer! One of the biggest hurdles for me was math; I used TRIO resources and was able to complete all my degree requirements. I graduated from both NIC and LCSC, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree with honors. I’m currently working full-time in my chosen field and loving my job. Thank you TRIO!!

Boise State University | McNair Scholars Program

I came to this country at the age of 17 with no English skills and from a disadvantaged socio-economic background. Working alongside my parents as farmworkers, my siblings and I learned the value of hard work and education. It was my resilience and persistence that helped me find the resources to attend college. As a first-generation student, the idea of a postgraduate education seemed an impossibility. However, becoming a part of the Ronald E. McNair Scholar Program was one of the best decisions I made during my time at Boise State University. Thanks to the McNair Scholars Program, I was able to accomplish my dream of becoming an Anthropologist. The McNair Scholars Program provided the tools, knowledge, opportunities and financial support to pursue postgraduate education.

In December 2016 I obtained a PhD in Medical Anthropology and a Master’s of Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh; I am currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Centers of Health and Aging, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College. This journey would not have been possible without the support and assistance from the McNair Program at the beginning of my career.