About Program

This program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to the postsecondary institution of their choice. Talent Search also serves high school dropouts by encouraging them to reenter the education system and complete their education. The goal of Talent Search is to increase the number of youths from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in postsecondary education institutions of their choice.

Types of Projects

Projects provide tutorial services, career exploration, aptitude assessments, counseling, mentoring programs, workshops, and information on postsecondary institutions.

Additional Information

Services provided by the program include:

• Academic, financial, career, or personal counseling including advice on entry or re-entry to secondary or postsecondary programs
• Career exploration and aptitude assessment
• Information on postsecondary education
• Exposure to college campuses
• Information on student financial assistance
• Assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications
• Assistance in preparing for college entrance exams

Who Can Join Talent Search?

In order to be eligible for selection as Talent Search participants, students must meet the following criterion:

• Be a U.S Citizen or Permanent Resident;
• Be at least 11 years of age and in grades 7-12;
• Qualify as Low Income and/or Potential First Generation College Graduate (neither parent has received a 4-year degree);
• Commit to remain in the Talent Search Program until High School graduation;
• Demonstrate Potential for Postsecondary Enrollment as defined by:
• Expressing a desire to go to college;
• Maintaining a GPA of 2.75 or higher;
• Exhibiting good citizenship and leadership skills.