TRS really helped me narrow down my focus on the things that I'm passionate about. When I came to USD, there was a lot on my plate. I was having to balance the financial stress of going to a really expensive university and coming in with athletics. I was kind of desperate to not only balance working at least 20 hours a week to somehow break even every month, but also waking up at 4 am to go to practice. The support that I've received from TRS via mentorship or financial aid or workshops has really given me the ability to focus on the things that are important to me without being distracted by all the surrounding noise.
My coach has been super helpful for me. I think my coach is a very authentic and very genuine person. I see him as a very positive role model who comes from a completely different perspective. He's very optimistic and people oriented. Like right off the bat, with me being a stranger, we just had such a positive conversation, and he was already offering so much support. It's just great to see that relationship evolve on both ends of the spectrum.
Melissa V.
I don't feel as intimidated coming to campus. By knowing you guys, I feel like I have a place to go to. When I come to campus,TRS tells me little tips and tricks about parking and other things. It makes me feel more comfortable to navigate things around here. I have a point of contact. I'm not just at a big campus by myself. I've grown more comfortable navigating USD and just being here.
Before joining TRS, I often felt like I was navigating college alone. I'm naturally very independent, and I carried this mindset on campus believing that no one else could truly relate to what I was going through. But being part of TRS completely shifted that perspective. Hearing the stories of other students, many of whom I had probably passed by on campus helped me realize I wasn't alone. It gave me a sense of community I didn’t know I needed and taught me to lead with more empathy and compassion.
My biggest piece of advice is to take advantage of everything TRS has to offer. Say yes to opportunities—even the ones that seem small—and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Apply to everything, especially scholarships, and make the most of the connections you have within TRS. The mentors, the staff, and even your fellow students are all resources that can help open doors. The support and opportunities within this community are real and incredibly valuable.
Support Team Testimonials
Dr. Cynthia Avery
I have been working as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for youth in foster care for the past 10 years. I recognized a need to support former foster youth, and students who were homeless or at risk of homelessness at the University of San Diego, and created the Torero Renaissance Program and Support Team. All of our students, particularly those who are vulnerable, who may not have the same level of social capital, and who may be disadvantaged should be treated with dignity and respect.
Colleen Smith
Colleen Smith is a Financial Aid Advisor specializing in Scholarships within the Office of Financial Aid at USD. She hails from Tucson, Arizona but has also lived in Phoenix, AZ, and Colorado Springs, CO. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Integrative Studies with a concentration in Sociology and Public Health from Arizona State University in 2013. She has 5 years of Financial Aid experience and 13 years of experience working within Higher Education and has volunteered with Child Crisis Center and Casa de Los Niños. Colleen's favorite event is the TRS end of the year luncheon at La Grand Terraza when we get to celebrate our graduating student's success, hard work, and hear their plans after graduation and dreams for the future. It serves as inspiration and motivation to continue serving underrepresented populations and a reminder of the importance of Financial Aid.
Krystn Shrieve
Krystn Shrieve has worked at the University of San Diego since 2000. She’s had the pleasure of telling the stories of hundreds of USD students, staff, faculty members, alumni, donors and trustees. Every day, she’s inspired by what they have to say, how they embrace their mission as Changemakers, and the countless ways they bring the Torero spirit to life. Krystn is the second of five children. Her youngest brother came to her family after spending his earliest days in the foster care system. He was just 2 years old. She was 18 and had returned home during her freshman year of college for Thanksgiving break. She became his sister, his godmother, and a member of his lifelong cheering squad — watching him graduate from high school, serve in the U.S. Marines, and become a father to three beautiful boys of his own. They call her Titi and as she looks into their sweet faces, she can’t help but remember the little boy — with big brown eyes and the faintest sprinkle of freckles — who sat next to her during the fateful Thanksgiving feast that changed her life.
