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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Tech Opportunities Program (TOP) at Oregon Tech is a federally funded TRIO Student Support Services program through the U.S. Department of Education. TOP works to empower first-generation, income-eligible, and disabled students to succeed in higher education. Through personalized support, academic resources, and meaningful connections, TOP helps students overcome barriers, build confidence, and achieve their educational goals.
As part of the national TRIO network, TOP fosters an inclusive and supportive community where students can develop skills, access opportunities, and thrive throughout their college experience. For more than 20 years, TOP has helped Oregon Tech students navigate challenges, persist toward graduation, and prepare for success beyond the classroom. By providing holistic support and a strong foundation for growth, TOP equips students with the tools, knowledge, and support network needed to succeed in college and beyond.
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 income eligibility guidelines 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 Oregon Tech 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 submit an application to learn more about joining the program.
TOP provides personalized, one-stop support to help students succeed at Oregon Tech and beyond. As a TOP participant, you'll have a dedicated support team, access to valuable resources, and opportunities to build the skills and connections needed to reach your goals. Program participants have access to:
Personalized Support
| Academic Resources
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Career and Leadership Development
| Financial Wellness
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Community and Connection
| Transfer and Graduation Support
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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? Apply to TOP 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? Submit your application today and take the next step toward achieving your academic, personal, and career goals.
TOP SUMMER BRIDGE
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, TRIO advisors (past or present), 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 may benefit from TOP, you can encourage them to apply directly or contact our office. We are happy to reach out to the student to share information about the program and support them through the application process.
TOP supports students in building confidence, staying on track, and working toward their academic and career goals. Together, we can help students access the resources they need to succeed.
FAQ
LET'S CONNECT!
For more information
Contact:
MEET THE TOP TEAM
Hannah Levine, Director
Hi, I’m Hannah, Director of the Tech Opportunities Program (TOP) at Oregon Tech. 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, TOP Advisor
Hi there! My name is Gabriel Castro, and I’m thrilled to be a TOP Advisor for Oregon Tech. 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!
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.
