Monday, April 22, 2013

Cody Daniel's TRiO SSS Success Story



Name: Cody Daniel
Semester/Year started at WCC: Fall 2009
Semester/Year started at TRiO SSS: Fall 2009
Degree Earned at WCC or 4 year college: AA in Liberal Arts

How has TRiO SSS helped you? What services have you used?

I always thought school was boring, but I knew it had to be done.  I was one of those guys who only wanted to be on campus during the time of my class and nothing more. I would be one of those who sat by the door and first to try and leave – if I even decided to go to class that day.  When I began at WCC, I was recommended to become a participant of TRiO SSS, as I was a recipient of financial aid.  As a free program, I signed up and was hesitant to really get involved.  I just stopped by every once in a while to use the computers for homework or print out a paper.  As I took math classes, I began to take full advantage of the peer tutoring services through TRiO.  My first tutor, was very friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and made me feel very welcome.  As our tutoring relationship grew, for the first time, I really felt like an active participant of TRiO.  The staff, Roy, Russell, and Ruby, and the peer mentors and tutors were always helpful and understanding, which was why I always went there to study or even hang out between classes.

Throughout the semesters at WCC, not only did TRiO help me to improve in my studies and guide me through my college career, but I also made many friends along the way.  TRiO has such a mix of people of different generations, cultures, and backgrounds that it was a great opportunity to see things from others' perspectives and hear their stories.  As I made many friends, I always found myself going back to TRiO to keep me motivated to pursue higher education. What started as acquaintances, slowly became friends, and now and forever, a part of my family. 

Without programs like TRiO, that provide excellent services to the students who need and seek help with college, many would be discouraged from even trying to get a degree.  Personally, without it, I probably would have ended up failing all of my classes and given up on school.  But with the tutoring, computer services, and support of many voices in TRiO to push on, I was eventually able to complete my Associate Degree in Spring 2012. There are not enough words to express how grateful I am for TRiO SSS through my college experience.  I can't thank them enough for how much they have helped me.

UPDATE as of Spring 2016 

Cody is currently attending Honolulu Community College majoring in Diesel Mechanics Technology.

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