The impact of TRIO Student Support Services on academic performance of non-traditional students at a public state college in Georgia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) on academic performance of non-traditional students and perceived experiences of its recent graduates at a public state college in Georgia. A mixed-methods design was employed for data collection including (1) year-to-year retention rates of 480 SSS and non-SSS students, (2) three-year graduation rates and cumulative grade point averages of 2010–2013 and 2013–2016 cohorts and (3) two focus group interviews with eight 2016 SSS graduates. Significant differences were found in year-to-year retention rates and three-year graduation rates between SSS and non-SSS students. The graduates also reported that TRIO SSS assisted them in degree completion by offering (1) academic advisement, (2) degree planning, (3) development of self-confidence through motivation and mentorship, (4) academic resources and (5) a family-oriented environment. The results proved that TRIO SSS-assisted non-traditional students interacting with academic and social components of the institution, which helped to increase student retention and graduation rates.