There was never a time when Lauren thought that she could “get away with just a high school education.” Her parents have always encouraged her to do well in school with the intention that she would have the opportunity to further her education in college.

Lauren has always planned on going to college after high school, but after starting her first job, she realized why she had to further her education. Though she felt fortunate to be working at a young age, she realized that it was not a job that she could imagine doing throughout her life. Lauren is aware that in reaching a career that is rewarding to her, she will first need to obtain a college education.

Lauren knew what her goals were, but not how to achieve them. Her Talent Search advisor has informed her of college acceptance requirements and how to meet them. She has also guided Lauren in enrolling in high school courses that will prepare her for entrance into a 4-year college. She also provided information and resources on choosing the college that best fits her personal and career goals.

Through Girl Scouts, Lauren has been awarded the President Award for Community Service as well as two of the three highest awards: the Silver and Bronze Awards for her accomplishments in Girl Scouts, leadership, planning skills and community activities. She was selected for and participated in trips to Ohio and Switzerland. Through Central High School, she earned Runner-up for the Youth Maine Leadership Award as well as achieving honor roll status nearly every quarter.

Lauren’s future educational goals include obtaining the education to earn a PhD in Psychology. She is continuing to research colleges and is considering attending UMaine for part of her post-secondary education.

Attending college will provide Lauren with the opportunity to fulfill her career interest in Psychology. Financial gains are not important to her; what is important is performing work that she truly enjoys – helping others.

© 2008 Maine Educational Talent Search (METS)

The Maine Educational Talent Search Project is funded entirely by the US Department of Education. The grant award for 2007-2008 is $510,255.

In complying with letter and spirit of applicable laws and in pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, including transgender status or gender expression, national origin or citizenship status, age, disability, or veterans status in employment, education, and all other areas of the University. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Questions and complaints about discrimination in any area of the University should be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, the University of Maine, 5754 North Stevens Hall,Room 101, Orono, ME 04469-5754, telephone (207) 581-1226 ( voice and TDD) TYY (207) 581-9484.

This site last revised 3/3/2008 Comments or questions? Send email to Steve Visco (visco@umit.maine.edu)