TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Scholars Program

WHAT IS TRIO STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES (SSS)?

TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded TRIO program serving first-generation college students and students who meet other eligibility guidelines from freshman year through graduation.

The goals of the TRIO SSS Scholars program are to boost students’ grade point averages and rates of remaining in college until graduation.

WHO QUALIFIES?

Qualifications for TRIO Student Support Services are regulated by the federal government. To be eligible, students must permanently reside in the United States and meet at least ONE of the following criteria:

• First-generation college student (neither parent or guardian received a bachelor’s degree)
• Limited income, according to federal guidelines
• Documented disability

Students can also have academic or personal need. Please see Program Eligibility for full guidelines, or contact Dr. Natalie Serafini at nserafini@commonwealthu.edu if you are uncertain whether or not you qualify.

HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?

Upon acceptance to LHU, students can apply for the TRIO SSS program. After the application has been submitted and reviewed, personnel will be in contact regarding its status. We welcome meeting with prospective students during LHU Summer Orientations as well as Open Houses and Accepted Students Days.

TRIO SSS Application

WHY SHOULD STUDENTS PARTICIPATE?

Students who are selected for the TRIO SSS program gain valuable access to university skills. The transition to higher education is often difficult and confusing; program offerings provide participants with additional resources that promote success. TRIO SSS faculty and staff serve as the core of the program, teaching, consulting, and advising to address student needs

TRIO SSS is funded by a grant from the United States Department of Education in the amount of $338,971 to give 230 eligible LHU students additional resources for success in higher education from enrollment through graduation. The program is supported by additional funding and services from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania.

To be eligible for the Student Support Services (SSS) Scholars Program, students must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• First-generation college student (neither parent or guardian received a bachelor's degree from a 4-year institution) AND limited income according to the federal guidelines below
  
  • Federal Income Guidelines
• First-generation college student only; or
• Documented disability (learning, psychological, or physical as supported by documentation submitted to the Disability Services Office). Two-thirds of LHU’s SSS program must include first-generation college students who meet federal income guidelines. One-third of the total SSS population of students with documented disabilities must also qualify as low-income.

Important information for students with disabilities can be found at the U.S. Department of Education site. 

Academic need is also considered, such as lack of academic preparedness, time away from academics, lack of personal support, or lack of information, among other criteria.

Students new to LHU are encouraged to participate in the First Year Forward (FYF) first-year experience program, which provides a structure of workshop offerings, social opportunities, membership in a Learning Community, Peer Mentors, Peer Tutors, and faculty assistance in navigating the transition to college. Transfer students and nontraditional students are welcomed into First Year Forward along with first-time freshmen.

A range of campus resources supplement TRIO SSS services to support academic, career, financial, social, and personal needs. TRIO SSS personnel strongly encourage students to take advantage of Tutorial Services, Library Services, Disability Services, the Center for Career and Professional Development, the Center for Global Engagement, the HOPE Center, Counseling Services, Health Services, the Global MountainServe Center for Community Service, and the Offices of Financial Aid, Student Accounts, the Registrar, and Student Involvement. We collaborate with personnel in all these areas and make referrals when appropriate.

Students new to LHU are encouraged to participate in the First Year Forward (FYF) first-year experience program, which provides a structure of workshop offerings, social opportunities, membership in a Learning Community, Peer Mentors, Peer Tutors, and faculty assistance in navigating the transition to college. Transfer students and nontraditional students are welcomed into First Year Forward along with first-time freshmen.

A range of campus resources supplement TRIO SSS services to support academic, career, financial, social, and personal needs. TRIO SSS personnel strongly encourage students to take advantage of Tutorial Services, Library Services, Disability Services, the Center for Career and Professional Development, the Center for Global Engagement, the HOPE Center, Counseling Services, Health Services, the Global MountainServe Center for Community Service, and the Offices of Financial Aid, Student Accounts, the Registrar, and Student Involvement. We collaborate with personnel in all these areas and make referrals when appropriate.

This five-day bridge program—offered at no cost to participants—welcomes and orients new students directly before the fall semester begins, setting the stage for first-year success. TRIO SSS faculty and staff, along with campus and community leaders, facilitate a variety of activities to help students with the challenging transition to college academically, technologically, financially, socially, culturally, and personally. BFF is open to transfer and non-traditional students, as well as traditional first-years.

You are invited to e-mail triosss@lockhaven.edu with any questions.

Make AN APPOINTMENT

Program Director Dr. Natalie Serafini meets individually with students to assess and assist with academic, financial, professional, and personal aspects of college. Each TRIO SSS Scholar should meet at least once a semester with Dr. Serafini, addressing the academic plan as well as questions about time management, study strategies, financial aid, career goals, and/or personal wellness. Dr. Serafini also facilitates workshops on the nuts and bolts of college learning and on topics of particular interest to first-generation students. She is available to coach students at every step of the way from enrollment through graduation. SSS Scholars are encouraged to contact her with concerns, questions, or ideas at any point.

Dr. Natalie Serafini
Director, TRIO Student Support Services
204A Ulmer Hall
Lock Haven University
(570) 484-2324
nserafini@commonwealthu.edu

Request an Appointment

Writing Specialist Ms. Mackenzie Bowers assists TRIO SSS scholars with writing at every step of the process, from brainstorming ideas to revising drafts. Ms. Bowers can help with research papers, lab reports, discussion posts, resumes, cover letters, scholarship essays, graduate school applications, creative writing coursework, and whatever else might come up between coursework and other college-related activities. She can also assist with general study practices, critical reading skills, research methods, and familiarization with the expanding range of technology and applications used by in classes. Ms. Bowers is available to meet with students in her office, Ulmer 204B; by Zoom; and via the new TRIO SSS Discord server. All TRIO SSS students are encouraged to meet with Ms. Bowers for help with prewriting, drafting, revising, studying, or using Zoom and D2L. Feel free to make an appointment online with the button above or by email at mbowers@commonwealthu.edu.

Ms. Bowers also holds various workshops for TRIO SSS scholars that cover critical reading, online learning success, job application documents, and the writing process. Let her know if you have an idea for a workshop, as Ms. Bowers is always eager to talk with students!

Finally, the Writing Specialist mentors the student editors of the TRIO SSS Newsletter, which is published at the end of each semester. The editor position is a wonderful opportunity for students who love writing, and who would like to gain experience in editing, publishing, interviewing, design and layout, communications, and public relations. Please email Ms. Bowers if you are interested!

Writing Specialist
Ms. Mackenzie Bowers
Writing Specialist, TRIO Student Support Services
204B Ulmer Hall
Lock Haven University
(570) 484-2870
mbowers@commonwealthu.edu

Each semester, TRIO SSS provides financial literacy workshops to help students learn more about money management, credit, spending patterns, interest, budgeting, and identity protection. Programming is also offered to familiarize students with educational finance, such as FAFSA completion, state grants, scholarship applications, financial aid packages, the link between satisfactory academic progress and financial aid, and choices for repayment of loans. Students are assisted one-on-one with resolving student bill issues, and they receive referrals to the Offices of Financial Aid and Student Accounts. Altogether, TRIO SSS supports students toward the goal of reduced loan debt.

First- and second-year students who receive Pell Grant awards, earn at least a 2.5 grade point average, and actively participate in the TRIO SSS Program may apply for grant aid. These scholarships are applied directly to the student’s financial aid package. Upper division students with dire financial need and good academic standing, with a 2.5 or higher GPA, can also apply for grant aid. Applications become available each fall semester as the holiday break approaches.

Contact Dr. Natalie Serafini at nserafini@commonwealthu.edu with questions.

TRIO SSS Peer Mentors assist SSS Scholars with the transition to LHU as well as a range of possible challenges from enrollment through graduation. The Peer Mentors, successful upper-division SSS Scholars selected through a rigorous application process, interact with their peers individually and in small groups, providing support. Peer Mentors show students how to connect with other students, faculty, and staff, as well as engage in activities and take advantage of services across campus and in the Lock Haven community.

TRIO SSS Scholars beginning their first year at LHU are matched with two Peer Mentors who reach out regularly to offer opportunities for discussion of challenges, connection to resources, and participation in social activities. This introduction to the “TRIO Family” often proves crucial to first-year and transfer students’ academic confidence and sense of belonging at LHU.

Peer Mentor Positions

The Peer Mentors are SSS Scholars who serve as role models and provide a comfortable environment in which students can work on obstacles to achieving success. Both individually and in small groups, Peer Mentors offer support in academic, social, and personal areas. Each spring, eligible SSS Scholars have the opportunity to apply for one of the available Peer Mentor positions available for the following academic year. The requirements are:

• 2.5 or higher grade point average
• Standing of second-semester freshman or higher
• Evidence of active participation in the TRIO SSS Program
• Submission of a complete application with two references and a resume
• Successful participation in two group process interviews and one individual interview
• Ability to arrive one week before the fall semester begins
• Confidence in facilitating small groups
• Interest in providing year-long guidance and activities for peers
  Once selected, Peer Mentors in the SSS Scholars Program are expected to:
• Maintain perfect attendance and punctuality at training sessions, meetings with mentees, and any assigned activities, such as workshops and study halls.
• Act responsibly at all times as a designated role model peers look to for advice (i.e., making responsible choices academically, socially, and personally).
• Develop programs that assist peers with college life, learning, and recreation.
• Inform the director of any student issues or need for assistance.
• Participate actively in the TRIO SSS Program’s cultural trips, workshops, banquets, etc.
• Communicate continually with mentees throughout the year, including the initial individual meeting, subsequent coaching, and group programs.
• Regularly complete and submit green Contact Reports and Payroll Time Sheets to the Program Coordinator.
• Complete and keep clearances up to date.
• Sign and honor the Confidentiality and Family Education Rights & Privacy Act agreements.

For more information, please contact Dr. Natalie Serafini at nersafini@commonwealthu.edu.

The TRIO SSS NextGen Working Professionals Program, facilitated by Program Coordinator Marianne Guinter, matches students with professional mentors in the national TRIO alumni network, the LHU alumni network, and the Lock Haven community. Students are guided through the steps of conducting informational interviews and cultivating professional networking relationships.

The SSS NextGen Working Professionals Program also includes a job shadowing component, in which students gain exposure to industries that match their career interests. Finally, working in conjunction with the Center for Career and Professional Development, Ms. Guinter facilitates opportunities for internships, drawing on alumni networks and community connections. These career readiness initiatives complement students’ academic plans, motivating them to follow through with coursework and approach graduation with confidence.

In addition, TRIO SSS Scholars enroll in the Haven EDGE Program, offered by the Center for Career and Professional Development. This set of modules guides students to “ENGAGE, DISCERN, GAIN, and EMPLOY the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to make decisions and pursue the skills development needed.” The program consists of students applying and articulating the eight career readiness competencies defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Goals for freshmen and sophomores include concentration on major and career exploration, self-evaluation, and awareness of career options and resources. Juniors and seniors explore topics such as internships, job searching, and networking to prepare for life after graduation.

More information can be found on the Center for Career and Professional Development webpage.

TRIO SSS NextGen Working Professionals Mentor Program

As part of the 2020-25 grant cycle, the LHU TRIO SSS program has initiated the NextGen Working Professionals Program, providing students with the opportunity to engage and learn from experienced professionals within their desired field in order to better prepare for a future career. 

How the Program Works

The first step in becoming a mentor is to complete the Mentor Application. Once the application is received, the Grant Program Coordinator will reach out about the next steps, which include completing the process outlined in the Lock Haven University Volunteer Policy.  Once the volunteer’s application is approved by the University, the volunteer will be placed in the mentor pool and will be contacted about matching with a student mentee.    

At the beginning of the fall semester, mentors will be asked to confirm their availability for the upcoming academic year.  Once the mentor is matched with a student, the pair will be invited to a kick-off meeting where students and mentors will be introduced.  After the first meeting, the mentor and student will coordinate their meetings based on mutual availability.  The expectation is for the mentor and student to meet at least once a month for the duration of the academic year, September through May.  

Mentor Eligibility & Requirements

• At least three years of professional experience beyond an undergraduate degree.
• Ability to mentor one or two students during the academic year (September to May).
• Comply with the Lock Haven University Volunteer Policy.
• Accessibility and engagement for the duration of the mentoring relationship; willingness to share personal and professional experience and insights and to assist the mentee(s) in networking.
• Commitment to connecting with the student via phone or video conferencing (Zoom, Skype, FaceTime) at least once per month during the academic year.    
• Willingness to discuss with the mentee(s) a variety of topics related to professional development.  Topics may include: professional experiences, industry trends and best practices, professional advice relevant to the student's career interests and goals, mock interviews, communication skills, job/internship search strategies, professional networking, informational interviews, and job shadowing.
• Completion of a survey to provide feedback so we can continuously improve the program and provide the best experiences for the student and the mentor.  

Active SSS Scholars have the opportunity to participate in social and cultural activities throughout the year. Past cultural destinations include New York City, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Students have also traveled to see dance and musical performances at Pennsylvania State University and the Williamsport Community Arts Center. Locally, there are frequent social and cultural activities, including game nights, craft nights, literary readings, and theater performances.

Events vary by semester, so participants should monitor the Event Calendar and check their email for current opportunities.

The TRIO SSS Team consists of the Program Director, the Writing Specialist, the Program Coordinator, and a cohort of twelve Peer Mentors. These personnel collaborate to offer a network of support to SSS Scholars.

We encourage you to contact us at any point with questions, concerns, or ideas

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Dr. Natalie Serafini is originally from the central Pennsylvania area. In addition to her degrees in Psychology, Counseling, and Educational Leadership, she has obtained national certification in counseling (NCC) and completed coursework as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Dr. Serafini was recently employed as a trauma therapist, consulting with school districts across Pennsylvania to implement PDE's Trauma-Informed Approach Plan. She has also worked as a school counselor with more than 4,000 students across all settings (K-12), with additional experiences as a Behavioral Specialist, Therapist, SEL Teacher, and Clinical Coordinator. Dr. Serafini started her professional counseling career as a part of the TRIO: Upward Bound program here at LHU and was very excited to return to her undergraduate institution in the role of the TRIO Director of Student Support Services. 

Dr. Natalie Serafini
Director, TRIO Student Support Services
204A Ulmer Hall
Lock Haven University
(570) 484-2324
nserafini@commonwealthu.edu

WRITING SPECIALIST

Mackenzie Bowers has dedicated her career to supporting learning through writing. Before her role at Lock Haven University, she worked with writers as they developed their work for publication, and had several positions in the publishing industry, including editing literary magazines and working with literary agents.

Aside from reading and writing, Mackenzie enjoys rugby, animals, and keeping up with the latest TV shows on HBO Max and Hulu. She has had numerous short stories and poems published in various literary journals and magazines, and is passionate about helping students find their voices through their writing.

Mackenzie received her M.Litt in Creative Writing from the University of Stirling in Scotland, and her B.A. in Creative Writing and English- Editing and Publishing from Susquehanna University.

Mackenzie Bowers
Writing Specialist, TRIO Student Support Services
204B Ulmer Hall
Lock Haven University
(570) 484-2870
mbowers@commonwealthu.edu

PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Marianne Guinter joined LHU TRIO SSS as Administrative Assistant in 2018, working “behind the scenes” to help coordinate TRIO events and trips, gather and compile data for annual grant reporting, and run a tight administrative ship. In her current position as Program Coordinator, she is expanding her role to step out from “behind the scenes” and work with students through the NextGen Professionals Program, which includes a career mentoring component. She brings to LHU eleven years of experience as an HR professional.
Ms. Guinter was a first-generation college student, receiving an A.S. in Legal Studies from Central Pennsylvania Business College and a B.S. in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies from Pennsylvania College of Technology. 

Marianne Guinter
Program Coordinator, TRIO Student Support Services
204C Ulmer Hall
Lock Haven University
(570) 484-2406
mcg1046@commonwealthu.edu