Hundreds of graduates from the Socorro Independent School District's Class of 2026 enjoyed a stress-free summer before starting their next chapter, thanks to Operation College Bound, a series of one-stop enrollment events that provided the resources and support needed for a successful transition to college.
“It was a wonderful experience,” said Saida Felix, an Americas High School graduate. She registered for classes at El Paso Community College, learned about financial aid and spoke with school representatives about the steps she needed to take to become a massage therapist.
“It helps (students) to get to their goals and what they want to achieve in life,” Felix said.
Organized by EPCC and The University of Texas at El Paso, Operation College Bound took place in April and May at SISD’s six comprehensive high schools. The events connected graduating seniors with admissions, enrollment and financial aid resources at both institutions.
EPCC and UTEP staff guided students through the enrollment process and answered questions along the way. Students planning to attend EPCC met with admissions counselors, registered for fall classes and received their schedules. Those interested in UTEP received assistance with admissions applications, registration for New Student Orientation and enrollment in an anchor course.
Paulina Gonzalez, UTEP Recruitment Events Coordinator, said the goal was to help students start the summer feeling confident by answering their questions before the fall semester begins. Representatives from financial aid, admissions, advising and new student orientation were available to help students through the process.
“Our goal is to have them have a stress-free summer,” Gonzalez said. “We want them to come to us at orientation completely prepared, not scared if they're missing any items. We want them to have every opportunity that they can to get fully enrolled in the fall and not wake up at 4 a.m. scared that they did lose something or forgot something, and they're not able to enroll. So that's our goal today.”
Alma Barrios, SISD Director of School Counseling, said Operation College Bound helped remove barriers such as transportation challenges, scheduling conflicts and communication gaps by allowing students to access essential services on their campuses instead of traveling to EPCC or UTEP.
“We're turning opportunities into action,” Barrios said. “And we want to make sure that we bring that to the students here on campus so they can eliminate those barriers and be able to register for their future.”
Felix said she would encourage other students to take advantage of opportunities such as Operation College Bound to get ahead in their future careers.
“I have to say, take the opportunity as soon as you can. Don't slack off. Get what you want. And if (and) when the opportunity presents itself, take it,” Felix said.