Specialists provide new students with an orientation to the program and the college.
Information provided will include but will not be limited to: student expectations,
campus services and resources, course registration, financial aid, college policies,
rules, and regulations, review of the college website and demonstration on how to
access CANVAS, Webstar, Degree Works and the My Priority Registration Link.
Academic & Personal Counseling
Students work with counselors to develop an individualized Student Education Plan
(SEP), which may include both a short-term plan and long-term plan. Counselors assist
students in exploring career/professional goals, developing academic skills and strategies,
and preparing for opportunities in the job market and/or university. Counselors also
support students through emotional issues or potential barriers which may affect their
academic success.
Career/Professional Exploration
Counselors assist students in the career exploration process by providing them with
guidance counseling and various career exploration tools. In addition, counselors
may also refer students to the IVC Career Technical Center (CTE) to further engage
in career exploration and/or prepare for employment.
Academic Monitoring & Tutoring Referrals
Counselors provide students with timely interventions and academic services such as
tutoring, study skills workshops, and/or referrals to other support services. SSS
staff can also provide referrals for additional academic support from the Study Skills
Center.
Supplies
The Program offers students with free pencils, scantrons, note cards, pens, and Notebooks and highlighters.
Transfer Advising & Preparation
Counselors provide students with assistance in completing transfer applications, FAFSA
applications, writing personal statements, and providing letters of recommendation
upon request. Students are encouraged to transfer and pursue undergraduate study through
participation in college fairs and workshops addressing transfer preparation strategies.
Workshops
Various workshops are provided to SSS students throughout the year with opportunities
for academic and personal development. Topics, which vary each semester in response
to student need, include but are not limited to: career exploration, study skills,
financial literacy, resume writing, interviewing skills, and time management.
FAFSA/ Financial Aid Application Assistance
SSS Specialists assist participants in identifying and securing appropriate financial
resources. Support includes guidance with completing financial aid applications, connecting
students to program-specific funding opportunities, and providing referrals to the
Financial Aid Office, financial aid specialists, and community-based financial support
agencies.
Cultural and Social Activities and Field Trips
SSS offers a variety of cultural enrichment and social awareness activities by collaborating
with campus cultural programs and local community organizations. These experiences
are designed to broaden students’ perspectives, foster inclusion, and encourage meaningful
engagement both on and off campus. SSS also provides educational field trips that
connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
Annual Recognition Ceremony
In the Spring semester, graduating/transferring/certificated SSS-TRiO students and
their families are honored at a ceremony preceding College commencement. Students
are recognized for their participation in SSS-TRiO and completion of their program
of study.