At NJCU, students don’t have to navigate their college journey alone. The TRIO Learning Community (TLC) is more than just a program it’s a lifeline for first-generation, low-income, and students with different abilities, offering academic support, mentorship, and a space to thrive.
A Director Who’s Walked the Same Path
- Christina Rolon-Velez knows firsthand what it’s like to struggle in school. As an NJCU alumna, she was once a work-study student in TRIO. Through mentorship and hard work, she climbed the ranks to become its director. She remembers the moments of doubt, the fear of failing, and the uncertainty of what came next. But someone once told her, “You are not a failure.” That one statement shifted her perspective. Now, she spends her days making sure students hear that same message.
TLC is here to lift students up, provide guidance, and ensure they succeed no matter the challenges they face.
What TLC Offers
TLC is more than just academic support it’s about personal growth, resilience, and preparing students for life beyond NJCU.
- One-on-One Support: Academic coaching, tutoring, and mentoring keep students on track and build confidence.
- The Phoenix Project: If a student’s GPA drops below 2.4, they won’t have to figure it out alone. The Phoenix Project helps them bounce back.
- Peer Mentorship: Upperclassmen guide new students, creating a cycle of support.
- Workshops for Real Life: From financial literacy to career planning, TLC provides skills that go beyond the classroom.
- Internship Opportunities: Programs like America Needs You connect students to internships, helping them gain real-world experience early.
- A Summer Retreat to Build Connections: Incoming students meet their peers, take on outdoor adventures, and build confidence before the semester even starts.
National TRIO Day: A Celebration of Impact
National TRIO Day is February 22nd, a time to recognize the importance of TRIO programs and their impact on student success. At NJCU, we’re taking it a step further with a week-long celebration starting February 24th.
This week will focus on:
- Raising awareness about TRIO and its role in student success.
- Engaging our community through campaign writing and advocacy.
- Hosting the first NJ TRIO SSS Student Conference, bringing together students to share experiences, network, and celebrate their achievements.
TLC is committed to making sure every student knows they have a support system, and this celebration is a chance to highlight the real difference TRIO makes.
Success Looks Different for Everyone
TLC isn’t just about getting students to graduation, it’s about ensuring they leave NJCU with a plan, confidence, and the skills to succeed.
One student, who struggled during COVID and took a gap year, nearly dropped out. But through TLC’s support, she found her way back, regained confidence, and stayed on track to graduate. Her story isn’t unique—many NJCU students face obstacles, but a strong support system makes all the difference.
The Biggest Challenge? Making Sure Students Know About It
TLC’s greatest hurdle isn’t funding or staffing, it’s making sure students know it exists.
Many students don’t realize they qualify for TRIO services, and the TLC team is constantly working to spread the message: help is available, all you must do is reach out.
A Community That Lasts Beyond Graduation
One of TLC’s greatest strengths is the lifelong sense of belonging it creates. It’s not just a program you join in college and leave behind. Once a TRIO student, you’re always part of the TRIO family.
Students are encouraged to:
- Take full advantage of academic coaching, tutoring, and mentorship.
- Recognize that TLC is a safe, non-judgmental space where they will always be supported.
- Believe that success is possible, no matter the obstacles.
The TLC team’s message is clear: “You got this. And we’re here to make sure you succeed.”
Get Connected
📍 TLC Office: Hepburn Hall, Room 112-E
📞 Phone: 201-200-2204
📠 Fax: 201-200-2203
📧 Email: [email protected]
📲 Instagram: @NJCU_TLC
⏰ Office Hours:
- Monday & Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
If you’re an NJCU student looking for guidance, mentorship, or simply a community that has your back, TLC is the place to be. You don’t have to do this alone, there’s a team ready to help you every step of the way.
