The TRIO Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) is a federally-funded grant designed to provide free services to adults wishing to continue their education. We primarily focus on the wide array of post-secondary options, but can also help individuals complete their high school curriculum or GED, which would then allow access to certificate programs or Associates and Bachelor degrees.

The services we provide are often useful to adults who need to survey the range of options available to them. Because we are federally funded, we’re able to help the prospective student objectively compare schools, programs, and costs so that their ultimate decision is well considered and thoughtful.

Educational Talent Search (also referred to as ETS, Talent Search, or TS) is primarily an early intervention TRIO program which serves students aged 11-18, encouraging them to complete high school and enroll in post-secondary education. Additionally, Talent Search programs may also serve high school dropouts or college stopouts to age 27 by encouraging and preparing individuals to reenter the educational system and complete their education.

The Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program prepares students for doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities. Participants are from disadvantaged backgrounds and have demonstrated strong academic potential. Institutions work closely with participants as they complete their undergraduate requirements and encourage participants to enroll in graduate programs. They track their progress through to the successful completion of the advanced degree.

Student Support Services (SSS) programs increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants. The program provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with basic college requirements, and motivates students toward the successful completion of their post-secondary education. Student Support Services programs may also provide grant aid to current participants who are receiving Federal Pell Grants.

Upward Bound (UB) provides intensive academic support to participants for college entrance. To be admitted into the program, students must be between the ages of 13 and 19 and enrolled in high school. UB participants are students who are planning to go to college but need services in order to accomplish their aspirations. The overall goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education. Upward Bound programs also provide a six-week summer residential experience on a college campus to acclimate and prepare students for college entrance.

The Upward Bound Math-Science (UBMS) program is designed to strengthen the math and science skills of participating students. The goal of the program is to help students recognize and develop their potential to excel in these areas and to encourage them to pursue post-secondary degrees in math and science, and ultimately careers in the math and science profession. Upward Bound MathScience also provides a summer residential experience on a college campus to acclimate and prepare students for college entrance.

The Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) program is designed to help veterans prepare for and succeed in post-secondary education. The program serves veterans planning to attend college, universities, technical schools, certificate programs and more. Services include assessment, individual and group instructional programs, career planning, and other services to support veterans’ educational goals.