¾­µä´ó¹Ï Tech Opportunities Program
Trio Logo

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Tech Opportunities Program (TOP) is ¾­µä´ó¹Ï’s federally funded TRIO Student Support Services program, part of the larger TRIO initiative administered by the U.S. Department of Education. TRIO is a national network of eight programs designed to increase access to higher education, support student success, and improve college retention and graduation rates for individuals who face financial, academic, or systemic barriers.

TOP helps students persist through challenges, complete their degrees, and move confidently toward their goals.

At ¾­µä´ó¹Ï, TOP has been supporting students for more than 20 years, building a long-standing tradition of helping students overcome barriers and thrive throughout their college experience.

TOP works with students at every stage of their undergraduate journey; from incoming freshmen to transfer students to seniors. To be eligible for the program, students must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • First-Generation Student – Neither parent or guardian has earned a bachelor's degree.
  • Low-Income Student – Meets federal established by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Student with a Disability – Has a documented disability and is registered with OIT Disability Services

Additionally, to be eligible for TOP students must:

  • Be registered as an ¾­µä´ó¹Ï Klamath Falls Campus student *we are unable to serve online or Portland Metro campus students
  • Pursuing a first bachelor's degree
  • In need of academic support
  • Committed to using academic support to earn a OIT degree

Through individualized support, academic guidance, skill-building opportunities, and a strong community of peers and staff, TOP helps students navigate college, overcome barriers, and achieve their academic, career, and personal goals.

Think you might qualify? We'd love to connect with you. Contact TOP or to learn more about joining the program.

TOP provides personalized, one-stop support to help students succeed in college, graduate, and prepare for their future. We act as a central support hub and a partner in your college journey, helping you navigate challenges, connect with resources, and celebrate your successes along the way.

Program participants have access to:

  • Individualized Advising
  • Academic Support & Success Coaching
  • Financial Literacy & Financial Aid Guidance
  • Career & Graduate School Preparation
  • Workshops, Events, and Leadership Opportunities
  • A Supportive Community of Peers and Staff

Whether you're problem-solving a challenge or celebrating a milestone, TOP is here to support you at every step of your undergraduate experience.

Ready to get started? and discover the resources, support, and opportunities available to you.

Interested in joining TOP? We encourage you to submit an application today. TOP is a federally funded program with limited enrollment, so all students must complete an application and go through the admissions process before receiving services.

Application Process

1. Submit Your Application
Complete the online TOP application and provide any required documentation.

2. Admissions Interview
A member of the TOP team will contact you to schedule an admissions interview. This conversation helps us learn more about your goals, needs, and eligibility.

3. Admission Decision
After your interview and application review, you will be notified of your admission status. Applicants may be accepted, placed on a waitlist, or declined based on eligibility and program capacity.

4. Meet Your TOP Advisor
If accepted, you will be assigned a TOP Advisor who will contact you to schedule your program intake appointment.

5. Begin Your TOP Journey
During your intake appointment, you'll learn more about TOP services, discuss your goals, and create a plan for making the most of your TOP experience.

Ready to get started? and take the next step toward achieving your academic, personal, and career goals.

 

TOP SUMMER BRIDGE

TOP Summer Bridge logo for ¾­µä´ó¹Ï website
SEND ME MORE INFO ON TOP BRIDGE

TOP Summer Bridge is an exciting opportunity designed to help new TOP students start their ¾­µä´ó¹Ï journey with confidence, connections, and a sense of belonging. Held the week before fall classes begin, Summer Bridge combines academic success workshops, community-building activities, and hands-on experiences that introduce students to the people, resources, and skills that support college success.

The 2026 Summer Bridge will be open to incoming first-year students, transfer students, and non-traditional students who have applied and been accepted into the Tech Opportunities Program (TOP). Participants can expect a fun and engaging experience that goes beyond orientation, with opportunities to build friendships, explore campus resources, and prepare for a successful first year at ¾­µä´ó¹Ï. Big things are planned for Summer Bridge 2026, including team-building adventures, camping, kayaking, s'mores, and more!!

Students must be accepted into TOP to participate.

 

REFER A STUDENT TO TOP

We welcome referrals from anyone who believes a student may benefit from TOP services. Faculty, staff, campus partners, current or former TRIO advisors, and members of a student’s support network are encouraged to refer students who may need additional academic, personal, or career support.

If you know a student who could benefit from TOP, you can encourage them to apply directly or contact our office and we would be happy to follow up and share details about the program and application process with the student.

Together, we can help students build confidence, stay on track, and achieve their goals.

Illustration of two people in conversation with a clipboard, representing referring a student to support services.
REFER A STUDENT TO TOP

 

TOP IN ACTION

Student standing in front of TOP informational banner holding a tray of cupcakes
Person with OIT sweatshirt takes selfie with group of OIT students in background. Outdoor space with green grass.
OIT faculty and staff panel discussion
Students sitting on concrete steps eating lunch and smiling

 

FAQ

Yes. Students must complete an application and be accepted into TOP before receiving services. Because TOP is a federally funded TRIO Student Support Services program, participation is limited to students who meet program eligibility requirements. Applying is free, and our team can help you determine whether you qualify.

Yes. Previous participation in a TRIO program does not automatically enroll you in TOP. Because each TRIO program has its own eligibility requirements and enrollment process, students must submit a TOP application and complete the admissions process to be considered for participation. If you were previously involved in a TRIO program, we encourage you to apply and let us know about your experience during the admissions process.

TOP provides personalized support to help students succeed in their classes and reach their educational goals. Services may include academic coaching, study strategies, time management support, tutoring referrals, progress monitoring, and assistance navigating campus resources. Our staff works alongside students to help them overcome challenges and stay on track toward graduation.

TOP offers a variety of workshops, activities, and community-building events throughout the year. Topics may include academic success, financial literacy, career readiness, wellness, leadership development, and graduate school preparation. Students also have opportunities to participate in cultural events, campus engagement activities, and social gatherings that help build connections with peers, faculty and staff.

TOP helps students prepare for life after graduation by connecting them with career development opportunities and resources. Students can receive guidance on resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, networking, internship searches, graduate school exploration, and career planning. TOP also collaborates with campus and community partners to help students build professional skills and confidence.

TOP is designed to be flexible and fit into your college experience. Students are encouraged to meet regularly with TOP staff and participate in services, workshops, and events that support their goals. There is no set number of hours required each week, and students can engage with TOP in ways that best meet their individual needs.

TOP helps students identify and access financial resources that support college success. Depending on funding availability and eligibility, students may have access to financial literacy programming, assistance locating scholarships, guidance on financial aid processes, and limited grant-funded support for educational expenses. TOP staff can also connect students with campus and community resources when unexpected challenges arise.

TOP serves students who meet federal eligibility requirements. In general, participants must be enrolled at ¾­µä´ó¹Ï and be either a first-generation college student, a student from a limited-income background, or a student with a documented disability. Eligibility is determined through the application process, and our staff can help answer questions about qualification requirements.

Students gain access to a supportive community dedicated to helping them succeed academically, personally, and professionally. Through TOP, students develop skills, confidence, connections, and knowledge that contribute to persistence, graduation, and future career success. Many students find that TOP becomes a trusted partner throughout their ¾­µä´ó¹Ï journey.

The TOP Peer Mentor Program connects newer students with trained student leaders who have experience navigating college life at ¾­µä´ó¹Ï. Peer mentors provide encouragement, share resources, answer questions, and help students feel connected to campus. The program is designed to help students build confidence, develop a sense of belonging, and successfully transition into college.

Yes. TOP welcomes eligible transfer students who are looking for support as they transition to ¾­µä´ó¹Ï. Whether you're coming from a community college or another university, TOP can help you navigate campus resources, connect with opportunities, and stay on track toward graduation.

Absolutely. TOP serves students from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences, including adult learners, returning students, student parents, veterans, and others who may not follow a traditional college pathway. Our team is here to help you navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of balancing college with life's responsibilities.

TOP serves as a personalized support system throughout your college journey. Rather than helping with just one specific area, TOP provides holistic support that includes academic success, financial literacy, career readiness, campus navigation, and personal goal setting. Think of TOP as a partner in your success: someone to celebrate your wins, help you overcome challenges, and connect you with the resources you need to thrive at ¾­µä´ó¹Ï.

Whether you're curious about TOP, wondering if you're eligible, or looking for support, we'd love to hear from you. Our team is friendly, approachable, and ready to help you navigate your ¾­µä´ó¹Ï journey. Give us a call, send us an email, or stop by our office anytime.

TOP@oit.edu / (541) 885-1125

Find us on Klamath Falls campus on the 2nd floor of the Learning Resource Center in LRC 228!
 

 

Meet The TOP Team

 

Headshot of Hannah Levine, TOP Director

Hannah Levine, Director

Hi, I’m Hannah, Director of the Tech Opportunities Program (TOP) at ¾­µä´ó¹Ï. I bring a diverse professional background spanning human resources, startups, high-growth organizations, and nonprofit leadership, with experience across the technology, natural foods, outdoor recreation, and community development sectors.

I believe strongly in the power of education to transform opportunity and trajectory. As Director of TOP, I focus on building supportive systems, strengthening partnerships, and empowering students to recognize and pursue their potential. I am a graduate of the University of Colorado and, outside of work, enjoy outdoor adventures, community projects, cooking, and spending time with my kids.

Gabriel Castro Headshot

Gabriel Castro, TOP Advisor

Hi there! My name is Gabriel Castro, and I’m thrilled to be a TOP Advisor for ¾­µä´ó¹Ï. Originally from Colorado, I earned my Mechanical Engineering degree from Colorado State University. Although I have a technical background, my true passion has always been supporting the people and communities that have shaped me. As a first-generation graduate who was deeply involved in my TRIO community, I’m excited to bring my unique blend of experiences to serve the Klamath Falls community.

Outside of work, I love spending quality time with loved ones, exploring the outdoors, reading, watching movies, and enjoying a good cup of coffee. I have also been fortunate enough to travel to some remarkable places like Morocco, Kenya, and Cambodia!

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TBD, TOP Advisor

We are hiring! The TOP Advisor provides holistic, wraparound advising and support to students participating in the program. This position supports student success by offering academic, financial, career, and personal advising; teaching student success courses; coordinating program events; and supervising peer mentors. 

The Advisor collaborates with campus and community partners to connect students with appropriate resources and ensure compliance with federal TRIO regulations. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about advancing equity in higher education and supporting historically underserved student populations.