Department Features

TRIO ALUM Q&A: JULIA SYMONDS

  • BHSU Communications
  • 15 February 2024
The fourth Saturday in February marks National TRIO Day, dedicated to highlighting the aspirations of both young people and adults striving for self-improvement. Join us during the week of February 24th as BHSU TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) celebrates the achievements of our TRIO alumni through fun and insightful Q&A interviews. Discover the inspiring accomplishments of BHSU TRIO graduates and gain insight into what TRIO means to them!

Because of TRIO, I am where I am today!

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How did you get involved in TRIO? Why did you decide to apply for the program?
I became involved with TRIO during my sophomore year of college. I was working on a project with a classmate and we started talking about classes, instructors, and advisors. He told me how much he loved his advisor and how helpful they were. He then told me about the TRIO program. I decided to check out the program and what it offered. Later that week, I filled out my paperwork and shortly started working with the program after that.

How has your experience with TRIO SSS impacted your academic journey and personal development?
 Before working with TRIO, I didn't think I would be able to graduate. Once I became involved with the program, I gained the help and support to encourage me to keep going. Not only did my advisor help me along my academic journey, but she also encouraged me to get involved in clubs on campus and with different programs in the community to meet and network with people who would help me succeed in the future.

Can you share a specific moment or memory from your time in TRIO SSS that had a significant influence on your educational success?
During one of my semesters, I had an advisor before TRIO that put me in a random English class. After the semester started, I knew that this class was not for me and I would not be successful in it. This was about the time that I started working with an advisor with TRIO. It turns out that this English class was for higher level English majors. I was not. My TRIO advisor helped me get out of that class and into one that was better for me. I knew from then on that I would have a great advisor and I would be placed in classes that were needed and would help me!

In what ways did the support services provided by TRIO SSS contribute to your achievements in college? Were there any specific resources or workshops offered by TRIO SSS that you found particularly beneficial?
When I was in school, I was a single mom that worked full time and was also taking a full class load. At points it was hard to find a schedule time to get the help I needed with my classes. TRIO offered math and English help all day, so I was able to go in between my classes when I had time, instead of trying to schedule a time. The TRIO program also offered printing and use of their library, so I was able to borrow books from them for the semester at no charge. This was a huge help when the cost of textbooks is so expensive. They helped me work classes around my work and son's schedule to make sure I was able to be successful in school while also taking care of what I needed to do while being a mom.

In what ways have you stayed connected with TRIO SSS since graduation?
Since graduating in 2018, I have stayed close to my advisor and have always had support from her, no matter where I am in life. As of now, I have been working on campus for the last four years. I have had the opportunity to not only work with TRIO on a professional level, but also in my personal time.

What is your next big goal or dream that you're working on achieving right now?
 Right now I love where I am! I enjoy my job and the people I work with. However, I hope to one day own my own event planning company.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
TRIO is a great program, especially if you are a first-generation college student. Not only do they help you succeed, but they also help you find your place on campus. They don't care if you are a student who lives on-campus or if you are a commuter. They make sure you are in the correct classes and clubs that will help you become successful no matter where you want to end up in life or whatever career path you decide to take. I am glad I had the chance to be part of the TRIO program while in school.