LEAD Academy

Leaders for Excellence, Advocacy, and Discovery

As an incoming TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Scholar at the University of Pittsburgh, you have the exclusive opportunity to participate in the SSS LEAD Academy. TRIO SSS Scholars are an elite group of individuals across the US whose status as TRIO alumni can result in additional connections, opportunities, and recognition.  Through the LEAD Academy, you get a head start in networking with key individuals in the Pitt community, orienting yourself to the Pitt basics and practices, and building a team of friends that will last throughout your time at the University and beyond.

Get to know TRIO

Meet your TRIO SSS peers, staff, and alumni! Learn how to leverage the national reputation of TRIO.

Explore Pittsburgh

Learn the city bus system, visit iconic sites and neighborhoods, walk your schedule and tour campus.

Build your skills

Develop your resume, learn networking skills, and meet amazing Pitt faculty members!

Student Testimonials

"I believe this experience allowed me to be more comfortable on campus. I was able to learn new things that I know I will take with me for the rest of my life." ~ LEAD Scholar '21

"I appreciate all the thought brought into these events. Thank you for making me feel a little more at ease before starting classes." ~ LEAD Scholar '22

"I truly appreciate all the hard work and thought put into the program. I feel a lot more comfortable starting at Pitt knowing there are people I feel comfortable asking questions to. Reaching out is something very difficult for me so thank you all again." ~ LEAD Scholar '22

"I found all of the resources that we were given throughout the program was very helpful when going into PITT. Having a group of people, kind of a newfound family, is very nice especially in a new environment. " ~ LEAD Scholar '22

"I really enjoy being a part of this program because it made me feel more ready for college and will be useful for planning my career ahead." ~ LEAD Scholar ‘23

“I loved how incredibly kind and welcoming everyone was! I was nervous at first, but I felt like I fit right in with the group. Learning about the important aspects of leadership was immensely helpful.” ~ LEAD Scholar ‘23

2024 Lead Academy: August 14-19, 2024