This Spring 2007 term, if you are eligible, you have an opportunity to apply for a TRiO supplemental grant (scholarship). You will need to write a personal essay to request this grant aid in addition to being eligible. We are requesting a personal essay because of limited US Department of Education funding. The criteria and eligibility is below. Deadline to apply is Monday, January 28, 2008.
CRITERIA - Check if you are eligible to apply.
- Current participants of the Trio SSS program
- Students in their first two years of post-secondary education (less than 64 GPA credits).
- Students who are receiving Federal Pell Grants.
- Have financial unmet need that is verified through CNM financial aid department.
- Students who have participated in at least 2 college success workshops per term and attended at least one academic guidance appointment per term.
- Submit personal essay.
The simplest way to write your personal essay is to first tell about your educational goals and future plans. Then discuss what you have done so far to reach those goals. Next, discuss what you have remaining to do to reach your goals and what challenges you still have. This is usually a good place to address the financial reasons you may have for applying for the scholarship. We will judge the quality of the personal statement with the following: well structured essay (paragraphing, complete sentences) and, more importantly, somebody who is able to write about their goals and needs in a succinct, positive manner.
Your best chances of receiving a TRiO supplemental grant is the above criteria AND based the personal essay you submit. Due to limited USDE funding, there are no guarantees students will receive an award.
Students who do not participate in services are unlikely to benefit from their membership in TRiO. Our expectation is that regardless of supplemental grant aid, you will participate in Trio services and benefit from membership. Participation is the essential ingredient of the Trio program.
Reference web sites for SSS Supplemental Grant Aid:
http://www.nasfaa.org/publications/2001/rsssgrantaidfaq121101.html
http://www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/HEP/trio/grantaidlegislation.doc
