TRIO programs exist for students who need guidance through the academic systems that exist. TRIO programs began in 1964, when Lyndon Johnson signed the Educational Opportunity Act into law (McElroy and Armesto, 1998). This started the TRIO programs to help disadvantaged students enroll and complete college. TRIO programs, including Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Centers, help students get into undergraduate colleges and universities. As an African-American woman growing up in a working-class neighborhood, the author initially did not have mentors who could guide her successfully to college. However, the TRIO programs professionally and personally prepared the author for higher education and an academic career.