“Many first-generation and low-income students are figuring everything out on their own. We don’t always have someone at home who understands college systems, financial aid, or academic planning. We learn by asking questions, making mistakes, and trying again.” – Aiden Gong, ACC Nursing Student
When Aiden Gong first enrolled at Austin Community College District (ACC) as an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) student in 2022, he was navigating a new language, a new education system, and an uncertain path forward. Today, the 34-year-old Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) student is on track to graduate in spring 2027 with a clear goal: to serve diverse and rural communities as a nurse and public health advocate.
A big part of that journey has been TRIO Student Support Services (SSS), a federally funded program designed to support first-generation and income-eligible college students. TRIO provides the structure and support many students need to succeed, including:
- 1-on-1 advising
- Academic coaching and tutoring
- Financial literacy guidance
- Transfer planning
- Access to a $1,000 annual scholarship for active participants
Hear from Aiden as he shares how TRIO helped him move from uncertainty to confidence.
What made you decide to join the program?
I decided to pursue nursing because I want to make a direct and meaningful impact on peoples’ lives. Healthcare combines science, critical thinking, and compassion. I am especially interested in serving diverse communities and advocating for patients who may not always feel heard. Nursing allows me to combine service, leadership, and lifelong learning in one career.
What specific TRIO services or support have made the biggest difference for you?
TRIO has provided not just academic guidance, but structure, accountability, and confidence. When I was in ESOL, I did not know how to move forward to become a credit student. Because of the language barrier, I often felt unsure where to find help or who to ask. Having a dedicated TRIO advisor, Antonio Martinez, completely changed that experience.
He helped me create a clear academic plan and explained what I needed to do at each stage of my education. Before every semester, we review my financial aid, confirm that my courses are on track, and set academic and personal goals for the term. At the end of the semester, we reflect on whether those goals were achieved and what adjustments need to be made.
One time, I had an issue with my financial aid application. During a monthly meeting, Antonio guided me through the appeal process step by step. I successfully submitted the appeal, and it was approved. Without that support, I might not have known how to handle the situation.
Before joining TRIO, what challenges were you facing?
Before joining TRIO, I was facing uncertainty and a lack of direction. As a first-generation and ESOL student, I was still adjusting to the U.S. education system. Because of the language barrier, I often felt hesitant to ask questions and unsure where to find reliable information.
I didn’t fully understand financial aid, academic planning, or how to prepare for a competitive program like nursing. I was trying to manage work, school, and long-term goals, but I didn’t have a clear roadmap. That uncertainty created stress and self-doubt. I knew I wanted to succeed, but I didn’t always know what steps to take next. TRIO helped turn that confusion into clarity.
What is next for you after ACC?
After completing my ADN, I plan to continue in the BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing )program at ACC. My long-term goal is to work in public health and serve diverse and rural communities. I am especially interested in helping reduce health disparities by improving access to care, education, and preventive services in underserved areas. I hope to use my nursing education not only to treat illness, but also to promote health equity and community wellness.
What would you say to another student who is eligible for TRIO but unsure about joining?
TRIO is not just a service; it’s a support system. You don’t have to struggle alone. Having guidance, accountability, and a strong community can completely change your college experience. It’s okay not to know everything. TRIO exists to help you learn, grow, and succeed step by step.
For more information on the program, visit austincc.edu/trio.