Talent Search (FOCUS)

Seminole State College's FOCUS/Educational Talent Search, which has been assisting students in this area since 1991, is an academic enrichment program you can join at your school. It is part of the TRiO Programs, which are funded by the U.S. Department of Education. During the school year your FOCUS/Educational Talent Search advisor will visit your school and meet with participants either in groups or individually. Talent Search serves students from the sixth through the twelfth grades. Our main purpose is to help students stay in and graduate from high school then proceed to some form of postsecondary education.

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We are part of what is known as TRiO, educational programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. These programs were started in order to provide educational opportunity to all Americans regardless of race, ethnic, background, or economic circumstance. The programs are funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. SSC's FOCUS /Educational Talent Search Program serves students from the sixth through the twelfth grades. Our main purpose is to help students stay in and graduate from high school then proceed to some form of post secondary education.

We serve the following schools in Seminole, Pottawatomie, and Okfuskee counties:

Bowlegs
Butner
Earlsboro
Justice
Maud
McLoud
Macomb
New Lima
Paden
Pleasant Grove
Sasakwa
Seminole
Shawnee
Strother
Tecumseh
Varnum
Wewoka

The Seminole State College Talent Search West Project is 100% federally funded in the amount of $277,375 annually.

During the school year, we conduct workshops each month to assist students with the following subjects: study skills, test-taking strategies, life skills, college and career. We also provide campus tours, and evening financial aid workshops for parents and students. In addition we provide academic workshop materials and handouts to participants.

For grades 6- 11 most activities are done in groups; seniors have both group workshops and individual appointments with our advisors. We consider the needs of seniors - getting to college and applying for financial aid - to be a top priority.

Your FOCUS/Educational Talent Search Advisors conduct workshops and activities that provide you with valuable information - but in fun ways. Not only do you learn about college, careers, study skills, and life skills, you improve your interpersonal skills by interacting with others.

FOCUS/Educational Talent Search can provide you with the tools you need for a successful education and career.

What if you...

Don't know how to study? We will show you how to develop good study habits you'll use for years to come.

Are unsure about how to apply for college? We can help you with the the application process.

Don't know how you will pay for college? We will assist you in finding sources of financial aid.

Are confused about what career you want to pursue? We can help you match your interests and abilities with a caree that's right for you!

You must complete an application and attend one of the following schools: Bowlegs, Butner, Earlsboro, Justice, Maud, McLoud, Macomb, New Lima, Paden, Pleasant Grove, Sasakwa, Seminole, Shawnee, Strother, Tecumseh, Varnum, Wewoka

You can fill out the application online here.

or complete the pdf form here, print and return to our office.

Helpful Links

Know How 2 Go (The 4 steps to college)

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College Greenlight

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Novoresume
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okcareertech.org
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And professional development opportunities, instructional materials and products, business and industry contacts and much more.

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