UTEP’s College of Education Hosts EPISD Seniors for Aspiring Miner Teacher Tour

El Paso, TX, April 24, 2024
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) recently hosted approximately 145 seniors from the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) for a special event designed for students interested in pursuing a career in education. This half-day program offered engaging activities, campus tours, and opportunities for students to connect with current UTEP students as part of the Augustus F. Hawkins grant to the College of Education funded by the US Department of Education.
The event featured interactive, hands-on sessions led by College of Education faculty and staff, designed to give high school seniors a glimpse into the world of teaching. Students also participated in mini group tours of key campus locations, including Miner Village, Centennial Plaza, and the Lhakhang exhibit, with support from the Office of New Student Orientation and Housing and Residence Life.
A highlight of the Aspiring Miner Teacher Tour was the student panel discussion, where the visiting seniors had the opportunity to speak with current UTEP College of Education students. Current students shared their experiences with coursework, residency, campus life, and explained why they chose a career in teaching. This interactive session provided valuable insights and encouraged prospective students to ask questions about their future studies at UTEP.
To further explore what UTEP has to offer, students attended an informational fair featuring various UTEP departments, offices, and student organizations. They learned about resources and services related to financial aid, academic advising, admissions, and other aspects of student life, giving them a view of what it means to be a UTEP student.
“The Aspiring Miner Teacher Tour in collaboration with Career & Technical Education and El Paso ISD provided our Education and Training high school students with a great opportunity to visit the UTEP campus and exposed them to college life and what it takes to become a student in their teacher preparation program. UTEP College of Education provides the guidance that is necessary for our students to transition smoothly into the pathway of becoming future educators.” said Carol A. Mendoza, CTE Coordinator of Career Programs at EPISD.
The purpose of this event was to promote UTEP's College of Education and to recruit high school students with aspirations in the field of education.
For more information about UTEP's Teacher Preparation Program, visit https://www.utep.edu/lp/become-a-teacher/