Talent Search

Serving high-potential Vermont middle and high school students who are interested in pursuing education beyond high school

 

WHO WE SERVE THROUGH TALENT SEARCH

Since 1969, VSAC Talent Search has been providing career and college planning services to students at 40 Vermont schools who meet income guidelines and have an interest in pursuing education or training beyond high school.

 

WHAT WE DO THROUGH TALENT SEARCH

VSAC Talent Search offers students:

  • Counseling support for career and college planning
  • Financial aid assistance and academic support
  • Advising on high school courses

We also offer:

  • Parent events
  • College visits
  • Summer enrichment programs

Talent Search is a U.S. Department of Education federally funded TRIO program. More than 363,300 students are enrolled in 466 Talent Search Trio programs across the US. Learn more about TRIO >

 

HOW TO ACCESS TALENT SEARCH

If you are a student—or the parent of a student—interested in this program, talk to your school counselor.

We also offer a wealth of information and guidance for students and parents right on this website. Get more guidance > 

 

Hear from a student: Johanna’s story

johanna leeJohanna wasn’t sure what she wanted to do with her life after she graduated from college; yet her early interest in working with numbers resulted in a path focused on financial analysis as she pursued her degree. In 2017, Johanna graduated from Bryant University with a degree in business administration and a concentration in finance. While she was attending Bryant, she had the opportunity to study abroad in Australia and attend Griffith University.

Attending a private institution can mean higher college costs, but Johanna’s active pursuit of scholarships during her senior year at West Rutland High School produced good results. She received many local scholarships in addition to funding from Bryant University, all of which helped to keep overall costs affordable. Johanna now resides in Stamford, Connecticut, where she works as a recruiter and an account manager for Insight Global.  

Her advice to others embarking on a similar journey: “Follow your dreams and your passions, research colleges, and learn about all financial options. College has benefits that you may not realize immediately, and it’s an investment in your future that opens doors. Look to your family for support and find out about the Talent Search or GEAR UP programs offered in most Vermont high schools that provide individualized assistance planning for college, applying for financial aid, and exploring careers.”