The Educational Talent Search (ETS) 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. The staff also encourages them to graduate from high school and continue onto the postsecondary institution of their choice. ETS also serves high school students who, for whatever reason, chose to "opt out." ETS encourages them to re-enter the educational system and complete their education.

PURPOSES

The goal of ETS is to increase the number of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who complete high school and enroll in a postsecondary education institution. The staff provides academic and other support to students and encourages them to achieve academic success, obtain a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate and ultimately pursue an advanced education.

SERVICES PROVIDED

All services are free of charge! Services for ETS typically include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Advising: Individual and or group advising for academics or career development.
• Test Preparation: Information and preparatory assistance are provided for college entrance examinations.
• Financial Aid Assistance: Assistance in completing federal and or institutional financial aid forms is provided. Assistance with web-based searches for scholarships is also provided.
• Field Trips: Field trips to colleges, universities, vocational schools/areas and cultural activities are offered.

THE STAR, HSSU ETS' OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER 

Click here to read The Star, the official newsletter of Harris-Stowe State University's Educational Talent Search program. This is the inaugural issue of The Star, which contains important information about attaining scholarships, study tips and the introduction of ETS’ new advisors! Stay tuned for additional editions of The Star.

ELIGIBILITY

To receive services, students must be U.S. citizens, between the ages of 11 and 27 and have completed the fifth grade. A veteran, regardless of age, may participate if otherwise eligible. Students must also meet the following additional criteria:

• Potential first-generation college students (neither parent nor primary caretaker has graduated from a four-year college with a baccalaureate degree).
• Income-eligible individual (based on the family's taxable income).
• Desire to pursue postsecondary education.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in ETS activities during the school year.
• Be on time for meetings with ETS academic advisors and tutors.
• Encourage parent(s)/guardian(s) to attend ETS parents' meetings.
• Take messages, permission slips and notices home and return as requested.
• Comply with the Code of Ethics/Standards of Conduct.

PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide support and play an active role in child's academic and career goals.
• Check child’s progress in school and monitor participation in ETS activities.
• Participate in ETS and school activities and meetings.
• Encourage your child to attend tutoring, workshops, meetings and field trips.
• Establish a daily routine schedule for your child to complete his or her homework.
• Communicate regularly with teachers, administrators and ETS Advisors.
• Read the ETS newsletters to stay informed about activities and services.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Harris–Stowe State University
Campus Box 403, Room 007            
Dr. Henry Givens Jr. Administration Bldg.
Phone: (314) 340-3345 | Fax: (314) 340-5994/5738

Linda Todoroff 
Director, Educational Talent Search
(314) 340-5796                                        
E-mail:  TodorofL@hssu.edu

Sanela Mesic
Educational Advisor
(314) 340-3346
E-mail: Mesics@hssu.edu

Victoria Flanigan
Educational Advisor
(314) 340-3585
E-mail: FranigaV@hssu.edu  
                                          
Cassandra Smith 
Secretary, Educational Talent Search
(314) 340-3345
E-mail: SmithC@hssu.edu