HAPPY WEEK 9 TRIO!
In this issue
• A letter to our graduates plus tips and resources!
• Academic Statements
• FAFSA and a dinner!
• TRIO Events and Updates
• Campus events and resources
• Connect with your TRIO Academic Advisor
Dear Graduates,
Graduating from college is a huge achievement, one that's often accompanied by a rollercoaster of emotions. It's completely normal to feel a whirlwind of relief, pride, excitement, and yes, even a bit of fear as you step into the unknown. But fear not, because navigating through this transition period can be made smoother with a few helpful strategies:
1. Gather Information: Knowledge is power, they say. Gathering information about your options post-graduation can help demystify the uncertainty and alleviate some of the fear. Whether it's researching potential career paths, further education opportunities, or even just understanding what your interests and passions are, having a solid understanding of your options can empower you to make informed decisions.
2. Create a Plan: Transition periods can feel disruptive, but holding onto elements of your life that provide comfort and security can make the process feel less daunting. Creating a temporary plan post-graduation, even if it's just a rough
outline, can help provide a sense of direction and purpose during this time of change.
3. Give Yourself Time: Change takes time to adjust to, and it's okay to feel a little unsettled during the transition. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, lessons learned, and what you want to carry forward into this new chapter of your life. Embrace the discomfort as part of the growth process, and trust that with time, you'll find your footing in this new reality.
4. Embrace Discomfort: Change can indeed be uncomfortable, and it's important to acknowledge and accept those feelings of anxiety and insecurity as a natural part of the process. Establishing routines, journaling, and finding outlets for emotional expression can help provide structure and support during times of uncertainty.
5. Find Support: You don't have to navigate this transition alone. Reach out to friends, family, or mentors who can offer support and guidance as you navigate through this period of change. Consider seeking professional help if needed, whether it's through therapy, support groups, or utilizing resources available through your college or workplace.
6. Take Care of Yourself: Self-care is crucial, especially during times of transition and stress. Make it a priority to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation and be gentle with yourself as you navigate through this transition. Remember to prioritize your physical and mental well-being by eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising, and practicing self-compassion.
By implementing these strategies and taking proactive steps to navigate through this transition period, you'll be better equipped to embrace the next chapter of your journey with confidence and resilience. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, and best of luck on the exciting adventure that lies ahead!
We have compiled a list of available resources to help you navigate this period of transition.
• Academic and Career advising (ACA) continues to support alumni with career and graduate school exploration and preparation. To make an appointment visit https://www.evergreen.edu/advising
• Employment. Interested in working for the state of WA? Check out https://www.careers.wa.gov/ to learn more and apply for upcoming opportunities.
• Pathway Program: Connect to a case manager that will assist you in getting access to local services.
Graduating students need to submit a Final Academic Statement. The Final Academic Statement must be submitted by the last day of your final quarter to graduate. Below are the deadlines for spring and summer quarter: Spring Quarter: Friday, June 14, 2024
Summer Quarter: Friday, September 6th, 2024
TRIO Academic Specialists Stacia and Mercedes will be hosting a writing workshop on the final Academic Statement this month. THIS is like the golden
ticket to graduation from Evergreen and is due on the very last day of the quarter you are graduating. It will become part of your transcript, giving you the chance the describe your academic journey. Tell it in your way.
WHEN: Wednesday, May 29 from 12pm – 1pm
WHERE: Evans Hall, conference room 2151. (to the left of the front desk of the Holistic Advising and TRIO Programs office suite)
Financial Aid
Have you filed your FAFSA for the next academic year? Complete your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the 24-25 Academic Year today!
FAFSA Fast Track
Feeling hungry for some financial support? Mark your calendars because the Financial Aid office is throwing the ultimate FAFSA Fast Track party. Join us for a night of free dinner and financial wizardry as we tackle the FAFSA form together.
Worried about those pesky FAFSA questions? Don't sweat it! Our amazing staff will be there to guide you through every step of the process. From "What's my AGI again?" to "Where do I put my pet goldfish as a dependent?" We've got you covered!
And did we mention dinner is on the house? That's right! Chow down on some delicious grub while we help you secure that financial aid bag.
So, come hungry, leave with a full belly and the satisfaction of knowing your FAFSA is officially in the hands of the pros! See you there!
WHEN: May 29th from 5-7 pm @ The Greenery
TRIO Events
Get ready to celebrate at our TRIO Graduation and End of Year Celebration!
Calling all TRIO graduates, current students, friends, and family! Join us for an afternoon filled with good vibes, joy and celebration as we honor our graduating TRIO students and recognize the accomplishments of our current students for the academic year.
Date: Wednesday, June 12th
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Squaxin Park, Shelter 1
What to Expect:
Delicious food, refreshing drinks, and mouthwatering sweets provided by TRIO
Opportunity to connect with fellow TRIO members and celebrate your achievements together
Don't miss out on the fun! Please RSVP by Wednesday, May 29th, to help us plan for transportation, dietary preferences, and accessibility needs.
RSVP and more information here: https://forms.office.com/r/KtjMAkzy6p
Get ready to celebrate success, friendship, and the bright futures ahead! We can't wait to see you there!
TRIO Updates
Want to Borrow a Graduation Cap and/or Gown from TRIO?
For the past several years, TRIO has received cap and gown donations from Greener Grads to pass on to the next graduating classes. This has allowed us to provide caps and gowns for graduating students who may need them. We have a limited supply of caps and gowns (gowns of various sizes and colors) for students
to borrow. If you are interested in checking out what we have, contact your TRIO Academic Specialist or email trio@evergreen.edu.
For Tacoma campus students and/or students not local to Olympia, please contact your TRIO Academic Specialist and we may be able to hold gown and/or cap for you.
Evergreen does not require a cap and gown for Commencement. You can wear what you want!
TRIO Study Hall: TRIO Study Hall is a great opportunity to get support from our tutor coordinator, find study partners/body-doubles, meet other TRIO students and enjoy some delicious snacks!
When: Wednesday 2-4 PM
Thursdays from 5-7 PM
Where: Evans Hall, Computer Lab, classroom 2612
TRIO Drop- In Hours! Have a quick question? Need help scheduling an appointment? Feel free to drop by anytime between 1-3 PM every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Staff available for drop-ins include Jess Tourtellotte, Mercedes Shively and Stacia Pomerenk.
Campus Resources
Basic Needs Center: Visit the Basic Needs Center for tangible items such as clothing, shelf stable food, hygiene products, plant cuttings, books etc.
When: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1-5 PM by appointment
Where: CAB 135
To visit, please make an appointment . Students will get a 30 min slot to shop around for items! We can also help you connect with community resources. To learn more please visit: https://www.evergreen.edu/current-students/emergencyresources
Evergreen Satellite Foodbank: The Food Bank has moved indoors! Please visit them in CAB 135. Carts are available at the RAD office for student use!
When: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month, from 2- 4 PM.
Housing Resources: Facing housing insecurity?
Evergreen's Case Manager for Student Success provides housing resources and support to work with current students who may be experiencing this need. Email arcbasicneeds@evergreen.edu to set up a meeting with the Case Manager to discuss housing resources.
Student Wellness Services:
Grief Support Group
A compassionate space for students to support each other in sharing their experiences, emotions, and coping strategies while navigating the grieving process.
When: Mondays, 3 - 4PM
Where: Evans Hall 2205 - Social Justice Center
Ecotherapy Group
In this group, we will re-engage with our innate reciprocal connection with nature and enhance our coping skills for stress, anxiety, depression, and concentration issues through guided sessions and group interactions. Sessions are held both indoors at Student Wellness Services and outdoors in the Evergreen campus forest.
When: Wednesdays, 2-3:30 PM on May 1, 8, 15, 22
