Bellevue University hosts TRIO Day for first-generation students

First-generation students explored college access and mentorship at Bellevue University.The event happened Tuesday at Bellevue University, where AIM Institute’s Upward Bound program hosted its annual TRIO Day.Students from Bryan High School, Papillion La Vista High School, Papillion La Vista South High School and Thomas Jefferson High School took part in a day of activities focused on what comes after high school.The event included a student panel, a T-shirt design project, community service with the Nebraska Humane Society and mentorship sessions. Organizers said the goal was to help students better understand college opportunities and see themselves on a college campus.”These programs are vital for our student success,” said Charles Kaup, director of education for AIM Institute.Kaup said partnerships like Bellevue University help students become more familiar with college life before they arrive on campus as college freshmen.The event also featured keynote speaker Garry Clark, a former Upward Bound participant and first-generation college student. Clark shared his story of overcoming homelessness and finding a path through higher education.”No matter where they are today, if they keep focusing on the things that they want to do and realize that they have control of their destiny,” Clark said.Organizers said TRIO Day is meant to give first-generation students support, encouragement and a clearer picture of what college can look like.Make sure you can always see the latest news, weather, sports and more from KETV NewsWatch 7 on Google search.NAVIGATE: Home | Weather | Local News | National | Sports | Newscasts on demand |