IVROP connects students with colleges
EL CENTRO — A wide depth of universities, community colleges and technical schools teamed up with Imperial County Office of Education to share acceptance criteria with students Thursday.
Thirty different institutions arrived at the Southwest High School gym for a final check-in before students need to send in applications next month during ICOE’s series of events for Higher Education Week.
It was an opportunity for seniors to connect with colleges and learn about registration, financial aid and housing noted Renato Montano, superintendent of the Central Union High School District.
“The most important thing, is the collective effort by our staff and university partners to promote higher education and a better quality of life,” he said.
Denise Cabanilla, ICOE director of higher education reminded students they need to get in their application for federal student aid.
But to ensure they receive it they need an email address and a new law requires all students to include a copy of a photo identification to receive a financial aid package. “Ask questions of the college reps what it takes to get accepted,” she said. “Find out if a school has your choice of major, ask about scholarships and campus specific questions. Some of you are still undecided so it’s good to reconnect with reps you met as juniors.”
Krandalyn Goodman, admissions counselor for University of California, Irvine said they are looking for students who are able to challenge themselves in and out of the classroom. “Students should make sure they have the requirements to get into UCI,” she stressed. “We want well-rounded students. But UCI can be, for everyone. You should never assume you cannot succeed.”
Planning to attend Arizona State University was Maddie Morales who will major in music and maybe teach at the high school or college level. Morales is also considering University of Arizona or University of Oregon.
She hopes to work out a student loan yet shall seek restaurant employment too. “I play clarinet in the wind ensemble here,” she said. “But I want to find a career I really like and be successful.”
Jose Vasquez is an admissions representative for Universal Technical Institute with 12 campuses in the U.S., the closest in Rancho Cucamonga, just 37 miles east of Los Angeles.
They offer automotive technical training and forged partnerships with over 30 manufacturers.
Their courses are 10 months to 17 months long and offer associates of occupational studies certificates in automotive, diesel as well as for motorcycles and marine engines to prepare students for entry level jobs in the transportation industry.
“We’re looking for students who are hands-on oriented and who don’t like to go traditional,” he said. “We attract kids who are eager to attain a skill and start a career.”