The Taylor Family Center for Student Success is comprised of four signature programs.


Taylor STARs

Peer and faculty/staff mentorship, professional development and community


TRIO Student Support Services Program

Academic tutoring, financial literacy and aid, grants and graduate school preparation


Kessler Scholars

Financial assistance, start-up grant and technology grants, pre-orientation and more 


Forward Families

Family welcome dinner, pairing families and monthly communications 

First-year Retreat

Held in August after Bear Beginnings, The First-year Retreat aims to ease the transition to WashU for all incoming TFCSS first-year participants. By attending our orientation programming, our first-year students will be prepared to excel and will jumpstart their journey as WashU Bears and members of the TFCSS community. Students will participate in an active one-day program to:

Increase their knowledge and understanding of our Taylor Family Center for Student Success and our three cohort-based programs: Taylor STARs, TRIO Scholars, and Kessler Scholars
Hear from campus partners about resources and support
Engage in conversations with their peer mentors on topics such as imposter syndrome, academic success, and tips on navigating the first-generation student experience at WashU