The TRIO SSS program helps students overcome economic, social, and academic boundaries to higher education by assisting with basic college requirements and providing students with needed services and support.
We are invested in your success!
We are a committed team of staff, tutors, and mentors who will help you shape your signature student experience by creating a personalized Academic Success and Career Plan. This plan, combined with the effort of your team and your personal motivation to succeed, will help guide you through your first two years of college.
Student Testimonials and Achievements
Upcoming TRIO SSS Events
Fall Quarter 2025-2026
FOUNDER'S WEEK (10/27/10/31):
MONDAY: FAVORITE DECADE DAY
TUESDAY: ALTER EGO DAY
WEDNESDAY: BISON GEAR DAY
THURSDAY: HALLOWEEN COSTUME DAY
FRIDAY: IDIGENOUS PRIDE DAY/SKC PRESIDENT INAUGURATION
Spill the Beans: Oct. 24th and 31st are canceled! Due to activities for Founders Week: 10/27-10/31!!!
FAFSA!!!
Oct. 30th & Nov. 3rd, ALL DAY HELP!! We will have soup on!!!
STOP by the TRIO Lab if you would like help with your FAFSA!
FYI: FAFSA is required for most scholarships, including our SKC scholarship!!
Whether you're renewing your FAFSA or applying for the first time, our team will walk you through the process and make sure everything is submitted correctly and on time.
What to Bring:
- Your FSA ID (create or recover it at studentaid.gov/fsa-id)
- Your 2024 tax returns and W-2s
- Parent information (if you're a dependent student)
For additional information, please contact: sunshine_gaither@skc.edu
Applying to TRIO SSS
TRIO SSS Eligibility Requirements: participants must be an admitted SKC student and meet at least one, and preferably two, of the following three requirements:
- Income eligible as defined by the U.S. Department of Education
- First-generation college student: Be from a family from which neither parent or guardian has a bachelor’s degree
- Have a documented disability and be registered with SKC's campus Disability Services.
How to Apply
TRIO SSS Grant Aid-CLOSED
TRIO Student Support Services Grant Aid is made possible through funds from the U.S. Department of Education to eligible TRIO SSS students on an annual basis. The purpose of Grant Aid is to assist in supporting the successful progress toward and achievement of academic goals.
Please attach a typed, 1 to 1 1/2 page essay that includes: (1.5 Space w/12 Font required.)
- A brief introduction
- Your academic major & goals
- How many credits will you need to complete an Associate’s degree, and when do you plan to graduate? If applicable, your plans to transfer into a four-year degree program here at SKC or another institution.
- Your career goals.
- Tell us how this grant will help you.
- Conclude with a paragraph on how the TRIO SSS program has impacted you as an SKC college student.
Department of Education Requirements:
- A student must be in their first 2 years of post-secondary education
- Must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant
- Unmet need is not less than the award amount.
SKC TRIO Student Support Services Requirements:
- Grant Aid application completed, essay, and provide photo
- Verification form & Personal Success Plan completed for 2024-25 SY
- Attend TWO workshops: contact sunshine_gaither@skc.edu, or stop by the TRIO office.
- Financial Needs Analysis for Spring Quarter. Must have an unmet need (Get the printout from the Financial Aid Office the first week of classes)
- Students must not have any overdue books or other resources (need to be checked in)
- Students enrolled for the full school year and have not received Grant Aid twice will get priority
FYI: All applicants will be scored on:
- Unmet Need
- Required workshops/additional consideration for 'Spill the Beans' Presentations
- A completed Grant Aid Application (Essay, Verification Form & Personal Success Plan)
- Utilization of SSS Resources such as Tutoring, Books, Computer Lab
- Overall GPA for the Fall & Winter terms (additional consideration for Associates Degree completion for June 2025
Apply now and enjoy a unique educational experience that blends Western academic knowledge with Native American perspectives and practices. Benefit from smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and opportunities for hands-on learning and research. Join a supportive community that values cultural diversity and academic excellence, and prepare for a successful career and leadership role in your community. Apply today and start your journey towards a brighter future at SKC!