TRIO students visit Yosemite National Park, deepen sense of community 

students hold a Fresno State flag while in Yosemite National Park

On October 18, students participating in Fresno State’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) and TRIO Student Support Services Veterans (SSSV) programs took part in a day trip to Yosemite National Park, where they hiked the Mirror Lake Trailhead, shared a meal and competed in a social media challenge to create the best Instagram reel.

The two programs partner to offer group excursions every Fall and Spring semester based on students’ interests. Past group excursions include: the Museum of Science in San Francisco, Grant Grove in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater, and Alamere Falls at Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County.

“Our excursions are a way to foster a sense of belonging and provide an opportunity for building community and engaging in cultural and educational enrichment opportunities,” said Griselda Cervantes, interim director of TRIO SSS. “Students are able to meet other students who have lived similar experiences. We have seen folks become very close friends through these excursions.”

Housed within the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, TRIO SSS is dedicated to serving undergraduate students who are first-generation college students, from low-income backgrounds and/or have disabilities. TRIO SSSV works with students who meet the same criteria and are also veterans. 

yosemite wilderness
photo by Alcázar while in Yosemite National Park

Francisco Alcázar, a student in TRIO SSSV, said, “My experience with the TRIO program has been incredibly positive. The support they offer in so many different areas has been invaluable to me as a student. What truly sets this program apart is the personal connection with the staff—Russell, in particular, has been an outstanding advisor and is always approachable and easy to talk to.”

“As a Spanish major, I do a lot of reading and writing, so having access to resources like the free computer lab and printing services has been a huge benefit. The program also provides a welcoming space where I can stop in for snacks or drinks, which adds to the sense of community. One of my favorite aspects of TRIO has been the trips—I’ve participated in the last three, and they’ve all been incredibly fun and enriching experiences.”

A first-generation high school graduate and college student, Alcázar chose to attend Fresno State after earning his Associates degree at Fresno City College, saying it would allow him to pursue his education while maintaining the stability needed for his wife and four children. 

Alcázar is an Army National Guard veteran. After graduating this semester, he plans to pursue a multi-subject teaching credential. He said, “My ultimate goal is to become an elementary school teacher within [Fresno Unified School District’s] Dual Immersion program. This pathway aligns with my passion for bilingual education, and I am eager to contribute to the academic and linguistic development of students in a diverse learning environment.”

Cervantes said, “Every student brings with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Many of them are aware of the career goal they wish to pursue while others are still exploring. Programs like TRIO are a small stepping stone to ensure they are receiving academic, career, and social/emotional support as they live the college experience.”

Russell Gross, interim director of TRIO SSSV and an executive board member for the Marine Corps League said, “I enjoy engaging with veterans as well as veteran students on campus, as I am a Marine Corps veteran myself with 27 years on Active Duty…My favorite moment is when I see them at our SSSV graduation event and feel like a proud family member with tears in my eyes, remembering their journey in getting them to that point!”

To learn more about TRIO SSSV and TRIO SSS, visit https://studentaffairs.fresnostate.edu/studentsupport/index.html. 

by MARISA MATA

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