The Learning Connection

Welcome to the Learning Connection: A Trio Student Support Services Program

The TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with basic college requirements, and serves to motivate students towards the successful completion of their postsecondary education. The SSS program at Hocking College, The Learning Connection (TLC), is 100% federally funded at $267,986 annually.

The Learning Connection is designed to help first-generation and low-income students complete their educational goals. TLC provides students with a variety of services that create an academically focused environment. Personalized academic counseling, tutoring services, priority registration, campus visitations, and a study lab with computers and free printing are just a few of the benefits TLC participants enjoy. TLC may also provide grant aid to current participants who are eligible for Federal Pell Grant and meet the active participant criteria. The goal of TLC is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants and facilitate the process of transition from one level of higher education to the next. At TLC, our goal is to help you reach yours.

On this website, you can find additional information about TLC and you can download the application for TLC in addition to other forms. Feel free to call us or visit our office for more information about eligibility requirements and a more detailed view of program services.

TRIO/SSS TLC Eligibility

Students may be eligible for The Learning Connection under the following criteria:

first-generation college student (neither parent has a bachelor's degree) and/or;
income eligible (based on federal income guidelines) and/or;
U.S. citizen and/or legal/permanent resident and;
have an academic goal that leads to an associates degree or transfer to a 4-year program and;
demonstrate academic need as determined by the federal TRIO/SSS program regulations.

To remain active in TLC each student must:

attend 1 workshop each quarter;
attend 1 cultural activity per quarter;
meet with TLC advisers 3 times each quarter;
spend at least 4 hours per week in the TLC support lab;
complete a minimum of 12 credits per quarter;
achieve at least a 2.00 GPA.

TLC TRIO/SSS Services

The services provided to TLC students are designed to increase the college retention and graduation/transfer rates, and to facilitate the process of transition from the community college to a 4-year university of the student‘s choice.
TLC offers the following services free of charge to participants:

Personal Educational Plans
Academic, Career, and Transfer Counseling/Advising
Financial Aid and Scholarship Information and Guidance
Supplemental Grant Aid Awards (based on eligibility and availability of funds)
Tutoring Services (by appointment and walk-in)
Priority Registration
Assistance in Admission and Financial Aid for Enrollment in 4-year universities
Four-year University Campus Tours and presentations
Cultural Enrichment Activities
Leadership and Personal Development Workshops and Programs
Academic Student Success Workshops
Use of Laptop Computers (form required)

TRIO Program Information

Established by the federal government through the Educational Opportunity Act of 1964, TRIO Programs have helped approximately 2 million students graduate from college. The purpose of these programs is to provide and ensure equal opportunities for education to all Americans regardless of race, ethnic background, or economic status. TRIO consists of 7 programs, 2 of which we have at Hocking College: Educational Talent Search and Student Support Services. Trio programs are unique for several reasons:

Most programs serve less than 250 students. This provides for more personal interaction between students and TRIO staff.
The programs enroll low-income and first-generation college students or potential college students. Through participation in the programs, students are supported and encouraged as they work to overcome social and economic obstacles to higher education. Students receive assistance in college admissions, applying for financial aid, tutoring, and exposure to cultural events.

Hocking College | 3301 Hocking Parkway | Nelsonville, Ohio 45764 | USA | 1.877.HOCKING (1.877.462.5464)