Published September 10, 2024
CAPTION:Twenty first-generation freshmen pose with TRIO-SSS staff at Biedenharn Gardens in Monroe during the 2024 WINGS camp.
MONROE, LA – The University of Louisiana Monroe’s TRIO Programs Student Support Services (TRIO-SSS)
recently concluded its 9th Annual WINGS College Transition Camp, held from August
21st to 23rd, 2024. The ULM WINGS Camp, a three-day program, was designed to provide essential
support to incoming freshmen TRIO-SSS participants at ULM as they prepare for the
fall semester. The camp's primary goal was to help first-generation college students
transition smoothly into university life by equipping them with the necessary tools,
resources, and guidance to navigate their academic journey successfully.
This year, the camp welcomed 20 first-generation freshmen. Students moved into their
dorms early, allowing them to fully participate in a range of workshops and activities
tailored to their academic, career, financial, and social needs. During the camp,
students connected with TRIO SSS peer mentors and engaged in sessions on a range of
topics, including strategies for mastering math and biology, tips for choosing a career
path, how to obtain an on-campus job, and effective study skills. Additionally, participants
enjoyed a cultural enrichment activity with a visit to the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens.
The ULM TRIO-SSS team also held a special session for parents and families, where
they provided information about the TRIO-SSS program and offered advice on how families
can support their students throughout their college experience. Dr. Mystee Burrell,
Assistant Director of the ULM TRIO-SSS program states, “Supporting families is equally
as important as supporting students, especially when it comes to the success of first-generation
college students. By engaging parents and families in the process, we empower them
to become active participants in their student's college experience, fostering a collaborative
environment that benefits both the student and their support system.”
The camp concluded with a pinning ceremony, during which each student was personally
honored by the TRIO team. The team members pinned an "I'm First" badge onto each student
celebrating their commitment to college graduation.
The ULM TRIO Programs team would like to thank the following ULM Faculty and Staff
members for serving as guest speakers: Telitha Doke, Mathematics Instructor and Director
of the Math Resource Center; Timothy McMahan, Biology Instructor/ Lab Manager and
Alicia Mitchell, Senior Academic and Career Coach for Career & Student Development.
TRIO-SSS is one of the eight TRIO Programs fully funded through the U.S. Department
of Education to assist first-generation, income-eligible students to remain in good
academic standing and graduate from college.
To learn more about the ULM TRIO SSS program or to apply, visit www.ulm.edu/trio or stop by the TRIO-SSS office located in Strauss Hall room 206 or the ULM TRIO
office Sandel Hall 3rd Floor. Additional contact information can be obtained by calling
318.342.1097 or via email at burrell@ulm.edu or estis@ulm.edu
