WHAT IS STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES ?

              DO YOU NEED SSS IN YOUR LIFE?

As a KIPP College Support Advisor, part of my role includes finding on campus resources and services for our college bound KIPPsters.  One of the most amazing resources at many college campuses is a TRIO program called Student Support Services (SSS).  Student Support Services is a federally funded college academic assistance program (TRIO) that provides academic and personal assistance to a select number of eligible college students each year.  Eligible students must be low-income, first-generation college-goer or disabled.  The program acts as an advocate for students by  planning and coordinating their services while also providing workshops which help develop them academically, interpersonally and socially for success at the college level.  Services offered by the Student Support Services office include:

·          Professional one-on-one or group tutoring

·         Supplemental workshops in math & science

·         Academic Success workshops

·         Academic Advising, Advocacy, Monitoring

·         Career guidance

·         Study skills and time-management

·         Student financial aid assistance

·         Personal counseling

·         Educational and Cultural enrichment activities

·         Graduate & Professional school advising

As an alumnus of SSS program from the University of California Santa Cruz, I can honestly say SSS is a phenomenal program that helps countless students attain their goal of graduation and success. Being a first generation college student can be very challenging especially for incoming freshman. During my first quarter on campus, I struggled academically, so I approached SSS office and asked for their assistance.  Student Support Services immediately provided me with tutoring for all of my challenging courses assisted me in editing my papers and informed me about educational workshops that would teach note-taking and effective study skills.  The SSS office gave me plenty of services and support to ensure my educational success.   SSS staffs were extremely supportive and truly cared about me completing my education. 

When applying to graduate school, the advisors in the SSS office supported me through the entire process.  My advisors reviewed graduate school applications, edited my personal statement and even provided supplemental funding for my graduate school application fees, which as “the bomb”. Once I was accepted into graduate school, the SSS office provided me with financial assistance to fly to University of Michigan and visit my perspective school.  SSS wanted to ensure I could make an informed decision about selecting a school for my graduate career.  The Student Support Services office has always been a place where the student’s best interests are top priority. In my college career I have not seen a more dedicated and professional staff that is so willing to cater to the students needs they literally bend over backwards to help you succeed. Therefore, I encourage all of you KIPP alumni to seek out this amazing resource on your campus and apply.  You will not only receive outstanding educational support, but also to be embraces with a team people who will feels like family.