The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its middle school and high school participants encouraging them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education.
There are three easy ways to apply:
Print and mail to us at:
Talent Search, Lake-Sumter State College, 9501 US Hwy 441, Leesburg, FL 34788
Paper applications may be obtained from the guidance office at our selected schools or at Lake-Sumter State College’s Educational Opportunity Programs office
- Currently enrolled at a participating middle school within Lake or Sumter County (Carver, Oak Park, Umatilla, Gray, Windy Hill, South Sumter, Wildwood)
- Currently enrolled at a participating high school within Lake or Sumter County (Eustis, Leesburg, Umatilla, South Lake, East Ridge, South Sumter, Wildwood)
- Low-income household as defined by the federal TRIO regulations.
- Parents or guardians must not hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- GPA 3.0 or higher
Offers career advisement to equip TS participants with skills necessary for enrollment and success in college. New participants are assessed for career interests, learning styles, and study skills during the spring term (returning participants throughout the year) using a learning & study strategies inventory (adapted from Dennis Congo’s Skills Inventory) – a diagnostic assessment to aid in students’ identification of the specific study skills they employ, in comparison with students that typically achieve high grades. The tool facilitates identification of study skills in need of refinement.
- Academic and career exploration workshops
- College visits and preparations sessions
- Family events
- Assists with the college and financial aid process
Dr. Felicia Shelton- Director of Educational Opportunity Programs
Colleen O'Neill- Assistant Director of Educational Opportunity Programs
Joanna Presy- Educational Opportunity Program Coordinator
Danielle Smith- Educational Opportunity Program Coordinator
Hailey Reid- Educational Opportunity Program Coordinator
- Secondary school persistence
- Secondary school graduation
- Post-secondary education enrollment
6th - 12th grade
Free