Now that spring term has wrapped up and our TRIO students are heading off to internships, research opportunities, summer employment, and well-earned breaks, I’ve had a chance to reflect on what an incredible academic year it has been. This spring was filled with learning, community, personal growth, and memorable experiences both on and off campus.
Workshops & Events
Throughout the term, TRIO hosted 24 workshops and events, along with four additional peer leader-led programs, all designed to help students build skills, explore opportunities, and connect with one another.
Some highlights included our financial literacy workshop held in partnership with the Student Engagement Series overseen by the Dean of Students Office, featuring sessions on buying a car and savvy shopping. Students learned practical strategies for making informed financial decisions, understanding the psychology behind grocery store marketing, and preparing nutritious meals while staying within a college budget.
We also partnered with the Career Center to administer the Strong Interest Inventory to our first-year students. This assessment helped students explore their interests and begin making connections between their strengths, academic pursuits, and future career possibilities.
Our annual “What to Expect for Comps” workshop provided juniors with valuable insight into the comprehensive exercise process and helped them feel more confident as they prepare for next year.
Community-building remained a central focus throughout the term. We partnered with the Libe and IEC for a First-Gen Friday event featuring a flavored soda bar, creating a fun and welcoming space for first-generation students, faculty, and staff to connect and celebrate their shared experiences. We also partnered with the Office of Intercultural Life for our second annual Mystery Trip. This year’s destination was Windy Willows Farm, where students participated in goat yoga, spent time with animals, and enjoyed a relaxing day away from campus during a busy point in the term.
Poetry Night at Goodbye Blue Monday Coffee Shop was a great way to celebrate student creativity and self-expression. It was wonderful to see students share their original poetry and support one another in such a welcoming and positive atmosphere. Events like these remind us of the many talents our students bring to the TRIO community and the importance of creating spaces where they can be heard and celebrated. Additionally, our Life After Carleton workshop helped students prepare for the transition beyond graduation by exploring budgeting strategies, financial planning, and some of the important decisions they will face as they begin their careers, pursue graduate education, or navigate life after college.
Celebrating Our Seniors
One of the most meaningful events of the year was our Senior Recognition Dinner. I enjoyed celebrating our graduating seniors and reflecting on everything they have accomplished during their time at Carleton. This year, 41 TRIO seniors will cross the commencement stage on June 13th, and we could not be more proud of their hard work, perseverance, and achievements.
This graduating class holds special significance for me, as it is also my fourth year at Carleton. These students started college during my first year as program director, and it has been an incredible privilege to work with them throughout their college journey. Watching them grow through coursework, internships, externships, off-campus study experiences, leadership opportunities, and countless personal milestones has been truly rewarding.
As they prepare for their next chapter, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of their journey. We appreciate every one of them for the contributions they have made to the TRIO community, and we look forward to celebrating all they will accomplish in the years ahead.
Have a wonderful summer!