The TRiO Student Support Services held its fourth workshop of this semester at the Student Business and Public Administration building of the University of Guam.

Joe Cruz was the presenter of the workshop. He is an English instructor for UOG and GCC, and also one of the TRiO tutors. His powerpoint presentation was titled, “Reading and Writing for your Courses.”  His presentation focused on strategies for academic writing.

The workshop started with an icebreaker exercise. Students had to communicate with each other and line up according to the month of their birthdays. After the exercise, they all sat back down and the presentation began.

After the presentation, the students were told to get into groups of four to do some discussion. They all had to answer what their recent reading and writing assignments were and how they were able to accomplish each task. At least one person from each group stood up and gave a quick summary of their group’s answers. At the end of the exercise, food and drinks were provided to the participants.

Gechelle Asuncion, a student majoring in secondary education and a returning TRiO member, said that she has been to numerous workshops, so this was not new to her. She already knows what to expect, but still enjoys attending these workshops. Asuncion said TRiO is a good opportunity for students to participate in because they will get a lot of information.

“This workshop provided a lot of helpful pointers,” Asuncion said. “Students need to develop these helpful habits early on and use these throughout their education in college.”

According to Sheldin Venus, a freshman majoring in criminal justice, the presenter was informative and the workshop was a refresher rather than new information.

Gerardo E. Tenorio, a freshman majoring in biology and a new member of TRiO, said the workshop helped him a lot and recommended that other people should attend. Tenorio.

Tasi Anghet Martinez, a student majoring in social work, also attended the workshop. She said that it was useful and informative.

“ I really encourage students to be a part of this program. This is helpful, especially for those who are transitioning from high school to college.” Martinez said.

TRiO SSS is a federally funded program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education that serves 160 University of Guam students each year. It has been providing assistance and services for eligible students since 1983.

For more information, visit the office located at the second floor of the UOG Calvo Fieldhouse. It is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed during lunchtime, weekends and holidays.