TRIO Programs

Educational Talent Search

About Educational Talent Search

Educational Talent Search (ETS) at Hampton University is a free pre-college access program focusing on 6th – 12th grade students. Students are provided assistance to prepare them for college and life after high school with targeted support and resources.

News & Events

Pre-College Bootcamp

Services We Provide

  • Academic and financial assistance with college planning and preparation
  • Academic Workshops for students
  • Academic tutoring
  • Assistance in completing college admissions and financial aid applications
  • Assistance in preparing for college entrance exams (SAT/ACT)
  • Career exploration and guidance
  • College Awareness Activities
  • College Tours
  • Educational counseling and assistance with course selection
  • Exposure to cultural events
  • Mentoring programs
  • Special activities for middle school students
  • STEM and Engineering Exposure
  • Summer Enrichment Camps
  • Workshops and special events for families of participants

Schools We Serve

High Schools:

  • Bethel
  • Hampton
  • Phoebus
  • Kecoughtan

Middle Schools:

  • Andrews
  • Tarrant
  • Eaton
  • Lindsay
  • Syms
Did you know?
R2
Status
Hampton University is designated as a Research 2 (R2) institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This places Hampton among a prestigious group of universities recognized for “high research activity,” a designation earned through sustained investment in faculty research, graduate education, and external grant success.

Eligibility Requirements

We encourage students from all backgrounds and socioeconomic status in Hampton City Schools to apply.

Eligibility for Hampton University’s TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program is based on federal guidelines designed to support students who can benefit most from additional academic and college preparatory services.

  • Students must attend a participating middle or high school within Hampton City and demonstrate a desire to pursue post-secondary education.
  • Priority is given to individuals who are from limited-income households, are potential first-generation college students (neither parent has earned a four-year college degree), or face other barriers to accessing higher education.
  • Applicants are required to complete an application and may need to provide documentation to verify eligibility criteria.

Once accepted, students are expected to actively participate in program activities and maintain a commitment to their academic and personal development.

Two students on a small wooden dinghy boat with a chaperone on a lake.
ETS students launching a boat they hand-built at the Mariner's Museum and Park during a trade skills & STEM summer camp.

Our Team Members

Do you have questions or comments? Leave us a message on the TRIO Programs contact form!

Dr. Shakiya Steward

Director

Dr. Robert Parsons

Academic Coordinator

Mr. Jauquan Twine

High School Advisor (Hampton and Bethel High)

Ms. Shuana Trotter

High School Advisor (Phoebus and Kecoughtan)

Ms. Ebony Sutton

Administrative Assistant

Apply Today!

Students from all backgrounds and socioeconomic status in Hampton City Schools are encouraged to apply.