The Center for Academic and Career Excellence (ACE) at Penn State Greater Allegheny is a federally funded TRiO Student Support Services Program. ACE is dedicated to supporting the success of students who are the first in their immediate family to attend college, are low-income, or have a disability. Our mission is to enhance academic performance, increase student retention and graduation rates, and expand career options for our students.
Students who qualify for ACE will gain access to a comprehensive network of resources that align their academic and professional goals with essential services, guided support, and enriching experiences.
Who Can Join ACE?
To join ACE, students must be U.S. citizens or meet residency requirements and satisfy at least one of the following criteria:
- Low-income
- First-generation college student (neither parent/guardian has a Bachelor's degree)
- Learning or physical disability
ACE Student Support Services
- Academic Advising: Personalized guidance to help you navigate your academic journey.
- Tutoring: Access to expert tutors for various subjects.
- ACE-only Classes: Special courses designed for ACE students.
- Need-based Grants: Limited financial assistance available.
- Academic Success Workshops: Workshops focused on enhancing academic skills.
- Textbook Resource Library: Access to a collection of textbooks.
- Career Planning Assistance: Support in planning your career path.
- Graduate School Application Assistance: Help with applying for graduate programs.
- FAFSA Assistance: Guidance on completing your financial aid application.
- Internship and Scholarship Research: Support in finding internships and scholarships.
ACE Signature Programs
ACE participants can apply for the textbook loan program and grant program through the ACE Student Success by Design Canvas group. If you have been accepted into ACE and do not see the group in your Canvas account, please contact DeAnna Jakubek at [email protected] to be added.
ACE Participation Requirements
- Active Participation: Engage in the Student Success by Design Canvas Group and ACE-sponsored activities.
- Meet with ACE Staff: Discuss your academic and professional goals with ACE staff at least once each semester, in-person or virtually.
How to Apply to ACE
Completed ACE applications will be reviewed, and eligible students will receive a welcome email and be added to the online "Student Success by Design" Canvas group. This group provides access to the ACE grant application, textbook loan application, and other valuable resources.
