Educational Talent Search
TRIO Programs

Associate Director - Vickey Velazquez

Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a Federal TRIO Program. It is an academic outreach program designed to help and motivate individuals to complete their middle and high school education, and to pursue further education or training. This training may include enrollment in vocational, trade or business schools, as well as two- or four-year college or university matriculation.

Participants may receive group or individual advising, with an emphasis on enhancing self-esteem and charting a direction towards continued education. ETS also provides assistance with admissions and financial aid processes.

Each year the program serves 600 individuals, ages 11-27, in a targeted area of the Chicago Public School System. ETS is sponsored by Roosevelt University and funded through the U.S. Department of Education.

Student Selection

Students may enter the program in any number of ways. Talent Search staff receive referrals from school counselors, principals, teachers, students, parents, relatives, and community agency personnel.

Eligibility criteria have been set by the U.S. Department of Education. Eligible students qualify under some of the following guidelines:

• Between the ages of 11-27
• U. S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Family meets low-income criteria
• Parents do not have a four-year college degree
• Attend an elementary or high school served by Roosevelt University ETS
• Reside in the target area
• Dropout or GED program participant
• Veteran (age restriction does not apply)

Services Offered

• Motivational, self-esteem and team building activities
• Study/test-taking skills workshops
• Career exploration and assessment
• Academic/college preparation
• Advising
• Tutoring and mentoring services
• Financial aid workshops, and assistance with completing forms
• Internet training.
• ACT preparation workshops
• College campus/work site visits
• Educational and cultural field trips
• Leadership training
• Summer educational/social experience
• Assistance in completing applications for post-secondary education/training programs

For additional information, call (312) 341-2036, or visit us in Room 310, Herman Crown Center.