From TRIO to NASA: How Students Are Turning Lab Culture into a Launchpad for College

What happens when federally funded college access programs, a cutting-edge STEM lab, and one determined high school student collide? 🚀In this special episode of Ol’ College Try, Matt sits down with Valeria Garcia-Lopez of the TRIO/GEAR UP programs at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, Keith Young, CEO of Ecotek Lab, and Carlos — a Class of 2027 student already presenting research at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.You’ll hear how:TRIO and GEAR UP programs are creating life-changing “firsts” for students across Metro DetroitEcotek Lab has spent nearly 20 years building STEM bridges — not just curriculumsHigh school students are tackling real-world challenges like space debris removal and water AI systemsCarlos earned his spot through grit, consistency, and showing up (even on freezing Sundays)Experiences like presenting at NASA can reshape a student’s entire college pathwayCarlos shares his dream of attending MIT and working at NASA — and how he’s navigating the college process with aerospace engineering and astronomy in his sights.This episode is about more than scholarships. It’s about expectation. It’s about exposure. It’s about giving students access to environments most don’t see until graduate school — if ever.If you’ve ever wondered what early STEM exposure can truly unlock, this conversation will inspire you.And if you’re moved by Carlos’s journey, check the show notes to learn how you can help sponsor students ready to launch. 🚀Connect with Us! Website: ⁠⁠https://collegeaidpro.com/⁠⁠Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://hubs.li/Q03PTJ_x0Sign Up for Our FREE College Success Bootcamp: https://hubs.li/Q042SVt10 Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ ⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ ⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ PLUS Get 15% OFF site wide with coupon code COLLEGETRY15 💸Connect with UM-Dearborn TRIO! Website & Giving Page: https://donate.umich.edu/xXDyKFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UMDearbornTRIOInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/umdtrio