Educational Talent Search Program

Iowa State University TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a college preparatory program funded by the US Department of Education. The goal of ETS is to increase the likelihood that participants graduate from high school and enroll in college. This goal is accomplished by providing participants with academic, financial aid and personal counseling through monthly school visits.

ETS serves 1000 students in grades 6-12 in 5 central Iowa school districts. Schools served include Fort Dodge, Iowa Falls-Alden, Marshalltown, Perry and South Tama. Two-thirds of students served by ETS must qualify as first-generation college-bound (meaning neither parent has received a Bachelor's degree) and by income guidelines established by US ED. ETS Advisors work with school counselors and teachers to identify qualified youth who have the potential for college success.

During the 2005-06 school year, 100% of ETS seniors graduated from high school. Of those seniors, 90% enrolled in college. In addition to participating in monthly school visits with advisors, students have the following opportunities:

6th graders spend 2 days at ISU for Summer Fun in June,
7th graders visit Iowa State University's campus in April,
8th graders visit the campus of University of Iowa or Buena Vista University in April,
9th graders spend 3 days exploring 5 Iowa colleges as part of the "College Tour" in July,
11th graders visit the Iowa college campus of their choice,
9-12th graders spend a week traveling outside of Iowa-visiting educational landmarks, cultural exhibits, and colleges. 2007: Chicago; 2006: NYC/DC; 2005: Boston; 2004: DC
9-12th graders develop leadership skills at MAEOPP Student Leadership Conference and Advocate, Learn, Lead for TRIO 2007.