Trinity University

Trinity University is committed to making its "Allies - First-Generation, Under-represented Students" program accessible, welcoming, and supportive for all students and families involved. We define first-generation students as those whose parents or guardians did not receive a bachelor's degree. We define low-income students as those who are Pell-Grant eligible. These students bring much diversity as well as a variety of life experiences that enrich our classrooms and campus life. They typically have a strong work ethic, strong desire to succeed, and bring excitement and enthusiasm stemming from their understanding of the privilege of being in college. Trinity University is obliged to make a concerned effort to admit, integrate, and support these students.

For First-Generation, Under-represented Students, entering college traditionally brings about extra challenges and obstacles. These difficulties may include fewer financial resources or lower financial support than their peers as well as full- or part-time jobs during the academic year, more remedial course taking, lower GPA's, or lower graduation rates. It is the goal of the Allies-FGUS program to educate students about these potential challenges and council them throughout their time at Trinity.

The Allies program is composed of faculty, students, and administration who were themselves in the categories of first-generation or low income students. A strong alliance with Upward Bound, Admissions, Academic Affairs, faculty, and many staff has enabled this program to flourish. We have asked all first-generation, low-income faculty, staff, alumni, and students to self-identify and allow us to share their contact information with upcoming FGUS students.

This past year, Allies provided much aid to its FGUS students. They gave out copies of books designed specifically for the students and created and distributed final-exam care packages for the students. Allies also instituted an early move-in program, allowing FGUS students to move in one day before other students. Each student and their parents or guardians are invited to a day-long set of programs that follows move-in: here, they are introduced to key people from Financial Aid, the Business Office, Health Services, Counseling, and other FGUS students.