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.
Application
Support Programs
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.
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.
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
Travis Thomas
Applied
Psychology
Justin Villers
Renewable Energy
Engineering
Ashlei Morgan
Mechanical
Engineering
Sarah Levesque
Applied
Psychology
Meet TOP Staff
Program Director
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
Michal Kawka, Program Director
LRC 220
541.885.1128
541.885.1126
Email Michal
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
The most rewarding part of my work is to support students and walk beside them in their academic journey.
Meet Brenda
Brenda Odesha, Academic Specialist
LRC 222
541.885.1631
541.885.1126
Email Brenda
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
I work side by side with students to encourage and support them through their time at Oregon Tech.
Meet Brianna
Brianna Schwenk, Academic Specialist
LRC
541.885.1129
541.885.1126
Email Brianna
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
I am very glad for the opportunity to be a part of TOP Program and work with our team to support students.
Meet Sarah
Sarah Engelgau, Office Manager
LRC
541.851.5179
541.885.1126
Email Sarah
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.
Mission
FAQ
Funding
Assessment
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.