(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – August 4, 2026) — Every year, El Paso ISD students earn acceptance into some of the nation's most respected colleges and universities, but long before acceptance letters arrive, school counselors are helping students prepare for what comes next.

From building four-year graduation plans to exploring career pathways, applying for scholarships, and completing college applications, El Paso ISD counselors work alongside students throughout their high school journey to ensure they are prepared for life after graduation.

Whether students plan to attend Ivy League institutions, nationally recognized universities, military academies, or colleges closer to home, counselors help guide each student toward opportunities that align with their interests and goals.

"College preparation isn't something that begins during senior year," said Federico Añoveros, Lead Counselor for El Paso ISD. "It starts much earlier by helping students identify their strengths, challenge themselves academically, explore career interests, and build a plan that prepares them for success after high school."

Throughout the year, counselors meet individually with students to review graduation requirements, discuss college and career options, assist with financial aid and scholarship applications, and provide guidance throughout the admissions process. Students also have opportunities to participate in college fairs, campus visits, FAFSA workshops, and career exploration activities.

These efforts help prepare students to pursue higher education at institutions across Texas and throughout the country. Whether they choose to remain close to home or attend universities hundreds of miles away, El Paso ISD graduates leave with the academic preparation, leadership skills, and confidence needed to succeed in college and beyond.

One of those graduates is Kaelyn Rojas, a 2023 graduate of Andress High School who is entering her senior year at The University of Texas at El Paso, where she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Biomedicine. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school and earn her Doctor of Medicine degree.

Rojas credits the experiences and opportunities she received in high school with preparing her for success in college. While at Andress, she served as student body president, captain of the Orchesis Dance Team, and represented her school on the Texas Association of Student Councils District IX board. She also graduated in the top two percent of her class and earned the Principal's Award.

"The leadership opportunities, community service, and academic support I received at Andress High School prepared me to succeed in college both inside and outside the classroom," Rojas said. "Those experiences gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities at UTEP, and I know they'll continue to help me as I work toward medical school."

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Recent graduate Ismael Beltran also credits the guidance he received in high school for helping him find his path. Now attending the University of North Texas, Beltran is pursuing a degree in sports journalism after discovering his passion through his high school's yearbook program.

"Being able to talk with my teachers and career coaches helped me realize it was time to start planning for college," Beltran said. "After researching schools and visiting campuses, I found a place that felt like home. Even though I'm 10 hours away, I still carry every lesson and friendship I made in high school with me. I encourage students to do their research, find where they fit, and make the most of high school because the opportunities are there."

El Paso ISD also offers numerous programs that give students a head start on college, including Advanced Placement courses, Dual Credit opportunities, Early College High Schools, P-TECH programs, and career and technical education pathways that allow students to earn college credit and industry certifications before graduation.

Añoveros said one of the most rewarding parts of the job is watching students achieve goals they once thought were beyond reach.

"Every student's path looks different," Añoveros said. "Our goal is to help them discover what's possible and give them the support and confidence to pursue it. Seeing our students accepted into outstanding colleges and universities is a reflection of their hard work, the support of their families, and the commitment of our schools."

As another school year begins, El Paso ISD counselors encourage students and families to start planning early, ask questions, and take advantage of the many college and career resources available across the district.