By Associated Press
COLUMBUS, Neb. — A federal program at Central Community College in Columbus is helping low-income, first-generation or disabled students remain in school.
The Columbus Telegram reports that TRIO is an organization through the U.S. Department of Education with programs designed to identify and help those from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve their educational and career goals. TRIO students take a free course designed to help them adapt to college life and teach them academic and life skills.
Rosie Heinisch, the TRIO director at the college, saysthe program ultimately leads to self-confidence.
“We found when we interviewed some students who were eligible for (TRIO) they said they wanted to go to a school that was closer to home – they didn’t feel like they were ready for the four-year experience,” said Heinisch.
Student Madelin Calderon, who moved to Nebraska after graduating from high school in Guatemala, said the TRIO program helped her adjust to life at her new school.
“TRIO helped me to understand life in college here because in Guatemala it is totally different,” she said. “You feel more comfortable and ready for college.”
