TRIO has shaped everything I am and everything I’ve accomplished. Without the unwavering support of my advisor and the invaluable resources TRIO provided, I wouldn’t have graduated college, let alone advanced into professional roles within TRIO and the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE). I am deeply grateful for TRIO’s continuous support throughout my journey.

My TRIO advisor equipped me with academic resources essential for my classroom success and persistence to graduation. TRIO also offered a safe space for me to fail, learn, and grow, fostering personal and professional development through leadership opportunities.

One pivotal moment was when I told my TRIO advisor I wanted to be just like her. This conversation changed my career path entirely. I always knew I wanted to work in education, but witnessing TRIO’s impact on my life inspired me to pursue a career in higher education access and success. My advisor helped me secure student employment within our TRIO program and encouraged me to continue this work post-graduation. This guidance led me to pursue a master’s degree, participate in leadership opportunities within ASPIRE and COE, and deepen my commitment to giving back to programs that support students like me.

As a graduate and a professional in TRIO, my experiences have profoundly influenced how I approach program development and policy creation. I always consider how students interact with higher education and how our programs or policies eliminate or create barriers to access and success. Fortunately, my role within CDHE allows me to continue advocating for and supporting underrepresented student populations through our established and implemented programs and policies.

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