Information gathered by Gloria Kossigan ‘26
Over the past four years, seniors have learned a lot through their college experience. TRIO seniors have shown their resilience in the face of challenges and their achievements through hard work. A few of them shared their experiences and how they have shaped who they are becoming.
Janet Duong ’26
I am Janet Duong, a studio art major. I really enjoyed showing off my artwork during the junior shows for studio arts, and many of the TRIO advisors coming in to support their TRIO students! Additionally, while I wasn’t able to dive as deeply into theatre here at Carleton, my trips to the cities and various show viewings still allowed me the time and opportunity to appreciate the art. My favorite memory with TRIO was graduate school exploration at the University of Minnesota – Duluth. TRIO supported me throughout my four years with one-on-one advising, which helped me so much with class selection and check-ins, as well as the workshops, and strengthened my presence with my classmates and preparedness. I will miss all the TRIO events. I have nothing lined up immediately after Carleton, but I will be going back home and looking for work. To future TRIO students, I will say take the opportunities given to you, but know your limits.
Anniya Roche Harris ’26
I am Anniya Roche Harris, an American studies and political science & international relations double major. Even though I don’t do this as often as I used to, I would say my favorite memory at Carleton was baking at the Dacie Moses House, because I found solace in baking when I faced challenges both academically and socially. I was always there making something new and sharing it with those in the house, which always proved to be my medicine when I was feeling down. After a while, I would go to the house to try out any new recipe I saw online. My favorite memories of a TRIO event are comfort-food Fridays, because there would always be good food and good conversations. TRIO provided me with the confidence and support to live up to my potential. Over the past four years, I’ve been through both good and bad moments, and I did nothing but appreciate every second. That confidence bloomed gradually over the years, especially my first year when my TRIO mentor believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself regarding an off-campus studies program. I ended up going on the program and solidified my passion for traveling and being in community with those from different backgrounds than my own. I will miss the social events the most because they kept me in touch with the TRIO community. After Carleton, I will be working as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Cambodia. To future TRIO students, believe in yourself, trust in yourself, and never lose sight of yourself. After four years at Carleton, I’ve learned that I matter the most in my story as my journey is unique and mine alone. Don’t let anyone warp your self-concept because they want you to be everything they see you to be, rather than what you see yourself to be.
Gloria Kossigan ’26
I am Gloria Kossigan, a biology major and a French minor. My favorite memory of my time at Carleton was my Paris OCS. I traveled to Arles, France, with my class. It was a very calm, old, and small city, and I loved how peaceful it was. My favorite memory of a TRIO event was the New York graduate school trip. We got to tour the NYU, eat very good food, and see an awesome Broadway show. TRIO provided me not only with academic support but also with social, career, and professional development, emotional wellness, and financial guidance through various workshops throughout the term, as well as one-on-one advising. I will miss being a TRIO peer leader, the events, the staff, and the whole community. After Carleton, I plan to work as a personal trainer or in a laboratory and to apply to a master’s program in nutrition or sport nutrition. To future TRIO students, I say make the most of every opportunity and use the resources TRIO and Carleton provide. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, because you don’t always need to have everything figured out. Lastly, explore and try things outside of your comfort zone.
Vivian Agugo ’26
I am Vivian Agugo, a cognitive science major. My favorite memory of a TRIO event is during the summer of 2024, when I participated in the TRIO New York grad school trip. This trip was truly a transformative moment where I got to partake in experiences I would have never done. One fun moment was going to see Wicked on Broadway. TRIO truly supports its students. From my first week at Carleton, I connected with my advisor, Rosie, who helped me navigate my journey here, and the support didn’t end at meetings! Throughout my later years at Carleton, TRIO staff and members supported my other endeavors. I am very grateful for TRIO. I plan to take a gap year before applying to graduate school. I will spend my gap year conducting research and career exploration. To future TRIO students I say you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take! Regardless of your identity or fears, go after different opportunities. Taking a chance to explore your interests and get involved allows you to grow as a person during your time at Carleton!