Welcome

Welcome to TRIO Educational Talent Search at Pensacola State College!

Since 1985, our TRIO ETS program here at PSC has been helping students dream big and reach higher. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, our program is designed to serve low-income, potential first-generation college students. We currently support 714 students each year across public schools in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to provide the resources and support students need to graduate from high school and succeed in college and beyond.

If you’re in grades 6–12, attend a participating school, and meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply and start building your path to success today!

Our Services

Educational Talent Search offers free services to help students succeed in school and prepare for college.

We Provide:

  • Free tutoring in core subjects (Math, Reading, Writing, Science, & History)
  • College tours and postsecondary program information
  • FAFSA Filing Assistance
  • Career explorations
  • ACT/SAT preparation
  • Access to ACT & SAT Fee Waivers
  • Academic and educational guidance
  • Workshops on scholarships and financial aid
  • In-school visits with ETS Specialists
  • Events for students and parents

*Fee waivers are available to students who qualify.

Free Tutoring is available in person or virtually, depending on what works best for the student.

Pensacola State College Main Campus
1000 College Blvd.
Bldg. 6, Room 684
Pensacola, FL 32514

How to Apply

You can apply to the ETS program any time throughout the year!

Complete the Online Application Here:

https://botform.compansol.com/231374506529054

Students and parents who choose to complete a paper application may contact the Educational Talent Search office at:

Pensacola State College Main Campus
1000 College Blvd.
Building 6, Room 675
Pensacola, FL 32504
(850) 484-1620

Eligibility Requirements

To participate in ETS program activities, including school visits and workshops, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA
  • Be enrolled at one of the following participating schools:
    • Middle Schools: Avalon, Bailey, Bellview, Beulah, Brown Barge, Central, Ferry Pass, Hobbs, King, Ransom, Workman
    • High Schools: Central, Escambia, Milton, Pace, Pensacola, Pine Forest, Tate, Washington, West Florida
  • Show potential to pursue postsecondary education
  • Demonstrate an educational or financial need
  • Be a U.S. citizen

Requirements For Participation

Participation in the ETS program requires active involvement from both students and their parents or guardians.

Parental Involvement:

  • Attend ETS-sponsored family workshops to stay informed and engaged in your student’s academic journey.

Student Involvement:

  • Meet with your ETS Specialist at least four times per year during school visits.
  • Maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher to remain eligible.
  • If academic support is needed, take advantage of our free tutoring services—we’re here to help you succeed!

Contact Us

TRIO Educational Talent Search is located on the Pensacola Main Campus in Building 6, Room 675.

Phone: (850) 484-1620

Staff

Juanita Edwards, Director
(850) 484-2533
jedwards@pensacolastate.edu
Mrs. Juanita Edwards began working as the TRIO Educational Talent Search Program Director in 2018.  She previously worked for the Escambia County School District for 35 years, where she served as a school administrator, administrative dean, guidance counselor, and high school English teacher.  She has a Master’s degree in School Counseling from Troy State University and certification in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Florida State University.

 

Lori Miller, Student Services Specialist
(850) 484-1693
lmiller@pensacolastate.edu
Mrs. Lori Miller started working at TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2023. Previously, she worked 23 years as a teacher, technology coordinator, and media specialist for the Escambia County School District. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of South Alabama. Mrs. Miller’s certifications include K-12 Reading, K-12 Media Services, Driver Education, and K-6 Elementary Education.

 

Amanda Nissim, Student Services Specialist
(850) 484-1619
anissim@pensacolastate.edu

Mrs. Nissim started working at TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2024, as a high school specialist. Her professional career includes an award-winning career in broadcast journalism, advertising/public relations, and substitute teaching. With strong communication skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and a talent for building authentic relationships, Mrs. Nissim brings energy and vision to help students discover and achieve their goals. She attended J.M. Tate High School and earned her bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Western Kentucky University.

 

Deana Martin, Student Services Specialist
(850) 484-1678
demartin@pensacolastate.edu
Mrs. Deana Martin started working at TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2024. Before joining our team, she worked 23 years as a teacher and media specialist for the Escambia County School District. She received her Associate of Arts degree from Pensacola State College and her Bachelor’s in Education from the University of West Florida. Mrs. Martin’s certifications include middle school and high school Language Arts and Social Studies and K-12 Media Services.

 

Kayla Uram, Recruitment/Retention Specialist and Administrative Assistant
(850) 484-1620
kuram@pensacolastate.edu
Mrs. Kayla Uram began working at TRIO Educational Talent Search in 2020 as our Recruitment & Retention Specialist. Prior to joining the team, she served as a Manager in the University of West Florida Writing Lab. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies with dual minors in Hospitality and Health Promotion from the University of West Florida.