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Tech Opportunities Program (TOP)


TOP: TRIO Student Support Services

We power the potential of first-generation students, low-income students, and students with disabilities. Our dedicated staff provides services and support in the following areas:

  • One-on-one and group tutoring
  • Academic, career, and financial aid planning
  • Peer mentoring and networking with other students
  • College success classes, faculty-led sessions, and workshops
  • Assistance with applying for financial aid, scholarships, and grants
  • Community building and cultural events
Our program is federally funded and has served Oregon Tech students since 2001. 




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Application


Support Programs

Bridge

The Summer Bridge program is designed to help non-traditional and transfer students transition to Oregon Tech. This free program takes place just before the start of the fall term and offers a great opportunity to meet Oregon Tech faculty, staff and students.

Student Success Seminars

Freshmen in TOP participate in a three-term student success seminar intended to foster their transition to Oregon Tech. The class is offered at no cost to students.

Workshops

We offer a wide variety of workshops on topics from financial literacy, study skills, and academics to career planning and professional development. We strive to offer at least one workshop a week throughout the academic year.

Financial Literacy

TOP students can access money management, budgeting, and financial planning tools and tips through the Owls' Worth Program. Additionally, TOP students have free access to SALT, which provides financial tutorials, templates, and strategies tailored specifically for college students. 


Meet TOP Graduates


Sarah Levesque
Applied
Psychology

Joshua Allan
Renewable Energy Engineering

Colton Hinricksen
Business - Accounting Option

Angela Thierolf
Population Health Management

Meet More Graduates

Meet TOP Staff


Program Director

Michal Kawka

I am grateful for the opportunity to work with TOP students as they pursue their goals and dreams. It is truly an honor to witness their journey.  


Meet Michal

MichalKawka

Michal Kawka, Program Director

LRC 220
541.885.1128
541.885.1126
michal.kawka@oit.edu

I help students find the best educational resources to fuel their potential and inspire their learning. I do this by listening, guiding, opening doors and asking big questions. My goal is to empower students to discover their passions and reach their goals.

I grew up in Poland and have lived in or traveled to more than 15 countries. I have a master’s degree in political science and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy.

Academic Specialist

Brenda Odesha

The most rewarding part of my work is to support students and walk beside them in their academic journey.


Meet Brenda

BrendaOdesha

Brenda Odesha, Academic Specialist

LRC 222
541.885.1631
541.885.1126
brenda.odesha@oit.edu

Brenda is an Assistant Academic Specialist for TOP and a graduate of Oregon Tech. Brenda received her Bachelor's in Applied Psychology and a minor in Human Communication. There were many programs and clubs that kept Brenda busy during her time as an Oregon Tech student such as the Relationship Building Program, ASOIT, Psychology Club and Youth Mentorship. Brenda is pursuing her MSW at Portland State University in their distance education program.

Brenda and her husband Frank, moved to Klamath in 2007 and are the proud parents of seven grown children and 15 grandchildren. Spending time outdoors locally and weekends on the Oregon coast are among their family’s top favorites. As an alumna and an Oregon Tech TOP graduate herself, Brenda is excited to work with the TOP students!

Academic Specialist

Brianna Schwenk

I work side by side with students to encourage and support them through their time at Oregon Tech.

Meet Brianna

Brianna Schwenk 

Brianna Schwenk, Academic Specialist

LRC
541.885.1129
541.885.1126
brianna.schwenk@oit.edu

I work side by side with students to encourage and support them through their time at Oregon Tech. I am passionate about empowering students to reach their potential.

Office Manager

Sarah Engelgau

I am very glad for the opportunity to be a part of TOP Program and work with our team to support students.


Meet Sarah

SarahEngelgau

Sarah Engelgau, Office Manager

LRC 
541.851.5179
541.885.1126
sarah.engelgau@oit.edu

Sarah Engelgau moved to Klamath Falls from Portland when she was three years old. She has a seven year old daughter that keeps her busy, and on her toes all of the time. She is currently attending school for accounting at Klamath Community College and her goal after she’s finished at KCC is to continue her education with the online program through Oregon State University for business administration.

She absolutely loves Oregon, and enjoys being in the outdoors any chance she gets. She loves to travel with her daughter, and take her to new places, even if it’s a quick day trip somewhere. During her free time she enjoys photography, and spending time with her family. She is very glad for the opportunity to be a part of the Oregon Tech team, and excited for a new adventure.



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Oregon Institute of Technology is an EO/Title IX/504/ADA Institution

Oregon Institute of Technology does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, religion, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation or gender identity in its programs and activities. Inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies should be directed to the Oregon Tech Title IX/504/ADA Coordinator, Sandi Hanan, Snell Hall, Room 107, 541-885-1074.
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