The University of Maryland Educational Talent Search Program is a Federal Trio program funded by the US Department of Education and is a part the Academic Achievement Program and the Office of Undergraduate Studies. The program's mission is to provide services that enhance the academic potential and personal growth of each student served. UM-Talent Search works with traditionally underrepresented middle and high school students who show promise, but may still need the supports we provide to successfully graduate from high school and navigate the unfamiliar territory of college acceptance and enrollment. In short, Talent Search is committed to creating a space for our students to dream; And then equipping them and their families with the information, skills and resources necessary to make their dreams reality.
The Talent Search Education Specialist is the program point in our partner schools. They engage Talent Search students individually and collectively on a continual basis helping them to develop a clear vision of their goals; guiding them in connecting their daily activities to their long-term goals; and supporting them in building academic and non-cognitive skillsets, including time management, self-advocacy, study skills, and financial literacy and efficacy.
Research demonstrates providing students with direct academic support in concert with enhancing social-emotional skills and capacity are proven to increase postsecondary persistence and completion.