Educational Opportunity Center
Background
The TRIO Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) at Marshall University is a federally funded TRIO program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. Established to serve adults who are low-income, first-generation college students, and/or veterans, the EOC is committed to increasing access to postsecondary education for individuals who face significant barriers. The program provides free academic/career counseling, GED preparation, assistance with defaulted student loans, assistance with financial aid applications, and guidance in selecting and enrolling in any college or vocational program.
Serving participants in Cabell, Lincoln, Mason, and Wayne counties in West Virginia, the EOC Program at Marshall University is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity. By helping participants navigate the complex systems of higher education, the program plays a crucial role in fostering economic mobility and personal empowerment in underserved communities.
Mission Statement
The mission of the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center at Marshall University is to empower adult learners, first-generation college students, and veterans by providing free, personalized guidance to access, navigate, and succeed in postsecondary education. The EOC seeks to eliminate barriers to higher education and promote lifelong learning, economic independence, and social mobility for individuals and families in our region.
Educational Opportunity Center Services
- Assistance with admissions to any school
- Assistance with all the steps of the financial aid process
- Assistance with selecting a college or vocational training program
- Assistance locating sources of financial aid including scholarships
- Assistance with reconciliation of defaulted student loans
- Career planning and interest testing
- Individualized academic advising
- Referrals to community resources
- High school equivalency information (TASC/GED)
Who is eligible for the Educational Opportunity Center Program?
Individuals are selected based on one or more of the following criteria:
- First -generation (neither parent completed a four-year college degree)
- Family income meets federal guidelines
- Individuals who have not completed High School and wish to obtain a High School diploma or GED
- Individuals who left a college or vocational training program before completion and wish to resume their education
- Individuals in college who need assistance completing a 4-year college degree
General Financial Aid and Scholarship Information
The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) at Marshall University helps students reach higher, both academically and personally, by preparing them for success in college and beyond. In addition to academic support, the EOC provides assistance with scholarship applications and identifying other sources of financial aid.