Students sitting at their desks facing forward in their classroom with about half of the class with with their hands raised

SDSU offers two TRIO programs that support first-generation and income-eligible students in college access, preparation and success. Both programs provide proactive support systems that increase the probability of student success and graduation from college.

TRIO programs are college opportunity programs that advocate for college access and success. Programs are funded by the U.S. Department of Education, and participants must meet eligibility requirements in federal guidelines.

TRIO Student Highlights

Alison Marshall is a senior who is majoring in English with a Writing Specialization and a minor in American Indian and Indigenous Studies. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in Student Affairs. Her academic journey has been enriched by involvement in programs that have encouraged personal growth, leadership and community.

Carmine Petersen is a sophomore Pharmacy major at SDSU, experiencing his first year on campus as a transfer student. Originally from Sioux Falls and proud to be a first‑generation college student, he has embraced the transition to SDSU with enthusiasm, curiosity and a drive to get involved.

Karrisa Brunner has been actively involved on campus throughout her time at SDSU. Karissa is a senior with an Ecology and Environmental Science major with minors in Political Science, Legal Studies and Geographic Information Science. She shared “TRIO has been especially influential in my growth”.

Grace Carruthers is a senior majoring in Conservation Planning and Park Management with minors in Rangeland Ecology and Management and Sustainability. She has spent her time at SDSU building community, growing in confidence and finding her place both on campus and in her field.

Shani Gide is in her second year at SDSU and is a Mathematics major with a specialization in Data Science and minors in Statistics and Economics at SDSU. She is passionate about helping others and enjoys using her technical strengths in tutoring and leadership roles across campus. When she’s not studying, she stays active by going on runs, taking walks, hitting the gym and spending meaningful time with friends and family.

You can fully be yourself.
Alison Marshall , TRIO Student
Meet Our People
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TRIO – SDSU
Larson Commons 101, Box 2806
Brookings, SD 57007
Phone: 605-688-6653
Fax: 605-688-6616

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